Overview
This lecture introduces the basics of human anatomy and physiology, covering body organization, history of anatomical study, key principles like homeostasis, and standardized anatomical terminology.
Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
- Anatomy studies the structure and relationships of body parts.
- Physiology examines how body parts function together to keep the body alive.
- The course will cover how anatomy and physiology explain vital processes like eating, thinking, and disease.
Historical Context
- Early study of anatomy involved dissecting animals and human corpses in secret.
- Human dissection became more accepted in 17th–18th centuries, with legalized cadaver use for education.
- Body donation today allows legal and voluntary anatomical study.
Principles and Organization of the Body
- Function always reflects structure (complementarity of structure and function).
- The body is organized from atoms, to cells, to tissues, to organs, to organ systems, to the organism.
- Cells vary in size and shape based on their function.
- Homeostasis is the maintenance of stable internal conditions despite external changes.
- Loss of homeostasis (e.g., from injury or disease) results in death.
Anatomical Position and Terminology
- The anatomical position: standing upright, facing forward, arms at sides, palms forward.
- Planes of the body: sagittal (left/right), coronal/frontal (front/back), transverse (top/bottom).
- Axial parts include head, neck, and trunk; appendicular parts are arms and legs.
- Directional terms:
- Anterior (ventral): front
- Posterior (dorsal): back
- Superior (cranial): above
- Inferior (caudal): below
- Medial: toward the midline
- Lateral: away from the midline
- Proximal: closer to trunk (for limbs)
- Distal: farther from trunk (for limbs)
Key Terms & Definitions
- Anatomy — study of body part structures and relationships.
- Physiology — study of how body parts function and interact.
- Homeostasis — maintenance of consistent internal conditions.
- Complementarity of structure and function — structure determines function at all body levels.
- Sagittal plane — vertical plane dividing body into left and right.
- Coronal (frontal) plane — vertical plane dividing body into front and back.
- Transverse plane — horizontal plane dividing body into top and bottom.
- Axial — central body parts (head, neck, trunk).
- Appendicular — limbs (arms and legs).
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Crash Course Chemistry basics on atoms and molecules as needed.
- Learn and memorize anatomical directional terms and planes.
- Prepare for discussions on body systems and homeostasis in upcoming lessons.