Human Physiology

The science of human physiology attempts to explain the specific characteristics and mechanisms of the human body that make it a living being. This course outlines the broad scope of human physiology and its central role in explaining the complex mechanisms that allow humans to survive and function as living beings. It further describes how various systems of the body interact and maintain life through processes like nutrient distribution, waste removal, temperature regulation, and the ability to respond to environmental changes.These responses are part of the body's broader system of maintaining homeostasis, or internal stability, even in the face of fluctuating external conditions. The course aims to equip participants with the necessary knowledge to understand these complex physiological processes at a basic level. It will cover various systems of the body, such as the digestive system, renal physiology, endocrinology, reproductive system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, nervous system, and special senses by taking a comprehensive approach, addressing both the foundational and specialised areas of human physiology.

By delving into the different systems of the body—digestive, renal, endocrine, reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, and special senses—this course will highlight how each system contributes to overall homeostasis. Through an understanding of these mechanisms, students will gain insight into the ways the human body adapts to varying conditions, and how disruptions in these systems can lead to disease or dysfunction.

The course is designed to cater to those with a foundational interest in human biology, including those pursuing studies in health sciences, medicine, and related fields. By the end of the course, participants will have acquired the basic knowledge necessary to comprehend the complexities of human physiology, enabling them to build upon this foundation in more advanced studies or clinical settings.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the key concepts and principles of human physiology, particularly the concept of homeostasis and how the body maintains internal stability.
• Describe the structure and function of the major physiological systems, including the digestive, renal, endocrine, reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, and sensory systems.
• Explain how different body systems interact to maintain overall health and respond to internal and external changes.
• Apply basic physiological concepts to real-world situations, particularly in clinical or health-related contexts.
• Recognize the role of physiological processes in maintaining life, and understand the consequences of system dysfunction or disease.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will:

• Comprehend Fundamental Physiology: Have a clear understanding of the physiological processes that govern human body function, including cellular processes, tissue function, and organ system interactions.
• Explain Homeostasis: Demonstrate knowledge of how the body maintains homeostasis through the coordination of multiple physiological systems, even in fluctuating external conditions.
• Describe System Functions: Be able to outline the structure and function of each of the body’s major physiological systems (digestive, renal, endocrine, reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, and sensory systems).
• Understand System Interactions: Explain how the body’s systems work together to sustain health, adapt to environmental changes, and respond to stressors.
• Identify Disruptions and Disease: Recognize how disruptions in normal physiological processes can lead to disease or dysfunction and how the body attempts to adapt to these challenges.
• Apply Knowledge to Real-World Scenarios: Utilize understanding of human physiology to analyze case studies and practical examples, applying concepts to solve problems related to health and disease.
• Develop Critical Thinking: Engage in critical thinking and discussion, synthesizing knowledge from different physiological systems to form a comprehensive understanding of human body function.

• Indic Thinking: How Humans Adapt to Thin Air: The Genetics of High-Altitude Living
• Simonson et al. (2010) Science - Tibetan highlanders
• Aggarwal et al. (2010) PNAS - Ayurveda-guided Indian study

Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology