Development and Physiology

Course Description

This course explores the structure and function of plants and animals, from the cellular to the organismal level, with a focus on anatomy, physiology, and development. Students will examine the fundamental biological processes that govern growth, reproduction, and adaptation, gaining a deeper understanding of how organisms interact with their environments. Through an integrative approach, this course provides essential knowledge for students pursuing careers in the life sciences and related fields.

Topics Include

• Evolutionary Foundations and Structural Organization Explore how evolutionary principles and surface area-to-volume ratios shape biological form and function, from the cellular level to organ systems.
• Cellular Function, Homeostasis, and Bioenergetics Examine cell structure, tissues, and organelles in the context of homeostasis, metabolism, and energy transformation, with emphasis on cellular respiration.
• Nutrition, Excretion, and Internal Regulation Understand how organisms acquire and process nutrients, regulate salt and water balance, and eliminate waste through coordinated digestive, renal, and osmoregulatory systems.
• Integration of Major Physiological Systems Analyze the structure and function of the cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, and how they interact to maintain internal balance.
• Biological Development and Differentiation Investigate how cells specialize and organs form during development, linking molecular mechanisms to the emergence of complex physiological systems.