Human Physiology
Overall Course Objectives
Introduction to human physiology in order to provide insight into the interaction between biochemical processes in the body. This knowledge is essential in regards to the food and pharma industry, eg. when working in labs or hospitals, and when communicating with physicians and other health professionals.
See course description in Danish
Learning Objectives
- Understand homeostasis, cell physiology, and body composition (Chapters 1 to 5).
- Describe neuronal signaling and sensory physiology (Chapters 6 & 7).
- Describe muscle physiology and control of movement (Chapters 9 & 10).
- Discuss the endocrine system and how hormones function (Chapter 11).
- Discuss cardiovascular physiology (Chapter 12).
- Explain how the respiration system functions and the exchange of gasses with the body’s organs and fluids (Chapter 13).
- Explain the functioning of the kidneys and regulation of body fluids (Chapter 14).
- Discuss digestive physiology and food absorption (Chapter 15).
- Understand Regulation of Organic Metabolism and Energy Balance (Chapter 16).
- Understand immune system functions (Chapter 18).
Course Content
Medical terminology and elementary anatomy. Fundamental cell physiology: structure and function of the cell; intercellular communication; transport across cell membranes; membrane potential. The nervous system: formation and propagation of nerve impulses; action potential and neurotransmission; sensory receptors. The muscular system: mechanism of contraction; energy production in muscle cells; neuro-muscular transmission. Metabolism: anabolic and catabolic processes; metabolic rate; metabolism of foreign chemicals (ethanol); temperature regulation; fever. Cardiovascular system: blood; heart; circulation; regulation of blood pressure. Respiration: the lungs; pulmonary ventilation; transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood; buffers in the blood; regulation of respiration. Gastrointestinal system: structure; digestive secretion from salivary glands; stomach; intestines; pancreas; digestion and absorption of carbohydrates; lipids and proteines; nervous and hormonal regulation; motility; hepatic function (secretion of bile), appetite regulation and obsesity. Endocrinology: hormone systems; chemistry; synthesis; metabolism; mechanism of action; endocrine glands; physiology of reproduction; hormonal control of calcium metabolism. Blood sugar regulation. The kidneys and body fluids: composition and regulation of body fluids; formation of urine; concentration mechanism; pH-regulation.
Possible start times
- 36 – 49 (Thurs 8-12)
Teaching Method
Lectures (40%), exercises (50%) and demonstrations (10%).




