Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience

Module code: NT2005

This module will provide an introduction to cellular and systems physiology of the human body with an emphasis on homeostatic mechanisms.

You'll explore the underlying cellular mechanisms - including chemical and electrical events - that underpin physiological processes in whole tissues and systems. Using the nervous system as an example, you will explore the neural control of voluntary movements and the autonomic nervous system's regulation of involuntary functions. You will be introduced to key concepts underpinning pharmacology, followed by various examples that highlight the role of cell surface and intracellular receptors in mediating drug actions.

Topics covered

• The chemical principles behind biochemistry.
• Structure of biological macromolecules
• DNA replication, transcription and translation
• Gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes
• Relationship between protein structure and function
• Cell metabolism and its control
• Enzyme kinetics