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PHYL2255 Physiology of Human Body Systems

The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change. For the most up-to-date information click on the Timetable link below.
 
Credit6 points  AvailabilitySemester 1 (See Timetable) Old unit code: 980.255
 
ContentThis unit is suitable for all students interested in the integrated function of the body.

The unit deals with the functional organisation of major human body systems. There is an emphasis on the mechanisms whereby the internal environment of the body is regulated via these systems. Throughout the unit examples are given of how abnormal conditions can arise from failures of the body systems.

After an overview of body organisation, neural and hormonal control systems, the unit is organised into the following themes: (1) perfusing the tissues—the physiology of cardiovascular function and control; (2) gaseous exchange—physiology of respiratory function and control; (3) regulation of body fluid and salt composition—kidney physiology; (4) absorption of nutrients—function of the gut; and (5) passing on the genes—the physiology of reproduction. The last topic is used as an example of hormonal control mechanisms and emphasis is placed on the general principles that can be derived from this example.
 
AssessmentThis comprises laboratory reports and other continuous assessment (40 per cent) and a final theory examination (60 per cent).
 
Unit Co-ordinator(s): Professor Howard Mitchell
Location: UWA (Crawley)
Mode: on-campus

Unit Rules:
Advisable prior study: 12 points of Level 1 human biology or biology and at least 6 points of Level 1 chemistry are recommended. Students without any high school physics are encouraged to consider taking a suitable Level 1 physics unit.
Contact hourslectures: 2 hrs per week; labs: 3 hrs per week (for 6 weeks); tutorials: 2 hrs per week (for 6 weeks) (alternating with lab classes)

 

Recommended Reading

Rhoades, R. A. and Tanner, G. A. Medical Physiology, 2nd ed.: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins 2003

 
Books and other material wherever listed may be subject to change. Book lists relating to 'Preliminary Reading', 'Recommended Reading' and 'Textbooks' are, in most cases, available at the University Co-operative Bookshop (from early January) and appropriate administrative offices for students to consult. For first-year units the Bookshop will endeavour to make available photocopies of book lists for individual units. Books marked with an asterisk (*) are available in paperback.