BMSC306 - Advanced Physiology

Year

Credit points

Campus offering

Prerequisites

BIOL204 Human Body in Health and Disease 2 OR BIOL126 Human Biology 2

Unit rationale, description and aim

To join successful research teams and conduct high-quality research in the field of biomedicine, one must have the ability to follow and appraise relevant scientific articles, think critically, and demonstrate understanding of key concepts of the field. Neuro-, renal-, and gastrointestinal physiology are rapidly advancing areas of biomedical research, and BMSC306 provides in-depth discussion of the physiology of these systems. In BMSC306, students can explore neuronal communication; clinically important elements of the organization and function of the motor and sensory systems with emphasis on pain sensation and special senses; and the complex nature of cortical activity. Molecular aspects of renal function, and the intriguing, multifaceted interaction between the enteric, central, and peripheral nervous systems will also be discussed. BMSC306 has a clinically-oriented approach with relevance to molecular medicine and biomedical research. Clinical issues discussed include Alzheimer's, Huntington's, and Parkinson's diseases; cholera, botulism, tetanus, and various pH disturbances. BMSC306 builds heavily on earlier units that explained the basic anatomy and physiology of the systems discussed. The aim of this unit is to strengthen students' critical thinking skills; advance their understanding of the neuronal, renal, and gastrointestinal systems; and boost health literacy to enable students to join research groups working in these fields.