Class Human Physiology I

Human Physiology is one of the fundamental areas of biomedical and biopharmaceutical education. It integrates knowledge from cell biology, chemistry, biochemistry and functional morphology, and is essential for a sound understanding of pathophysiology, pharmacology, therapeutics and toxicology, as well as other areas of clinical and therapeutic intervention.

Not applicable

Introduction to Physiology: Functional organization of the human body. Body fluid compartments. Homeostasis and regulatory mechanisms.   Cellular Physiology and Electrophysiology: Membrane transport. Resting membrane potential and action potential. Conduction, neurotransmission and synaptic integration.   Nervous System and Neuroendocrine Regulation: Organization of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Somatic and autonomic nervous systems. Sensory systems and sense organs. Somatosensory integration. Nociception. Consciousness, emotions and behaviour. Endocrine organization and regulation. Hypothalamic-pituitary axis and neuroendocrine integration.   Integrated Physiology: Energy balance, metabolism and adipose tissue physiology. Skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle. Excitation-contraction coupling. Isometric and isotonic contractions. Cardiac contraction and electrocardiogram. Control of posture, balance and movement. Biological rhythms and the sleep-wake cycle.

The curricular unit integrates active learning strategies in both theoretical and practical classes. In theoretical classes, content presentation is complemented by questions, discussion, and activities aimed at applying and integrating concepts. Practical classes include exploration and simulation tools, such as Anatomage and PhysioEx, experimental activities addressing sensory physiology and reflexes, and collaborative learning strategies involving the association and organization of concepts. Activities involving the search, selection, integration, and communication of scientific information are also included. These approaches promote active participation, application of knowledge, and an integrated understanding of physiological mechanisms.

Silverthorn, D. U. (2026). Human physiology: An integrated approach (9th ed., Global ed.). Pearson. Widmaier, E. P., Raff, H., & Strang, K. T. (2026). Vander's human physiology: The mechanisms of body function (16th ed.). McGraw Hill. Costanzo, L. S. (2026). Costanzo physiology (8th ed.). Elsevier. Hall, J. E., & Hall, M. E. (2025). Guyton and Hall textbook of medical physiology (15th ed.). Elsevier. Koeppen, B. M., Stanton, B. A., Hall, J. M., & Swiatecka-Urban, A. (2023). Berne & Levy physiology (8th ed.). Elsevier.