Course Overview
This course introduces the fundamental principles that govern how living systems work, comparing the physiology of humans and plants side-by-side. On the human side, we examine core mechanisms such as circulation, respiration, sensorial and neural circuitry, and endocrine signaling . We discuss in detail how these are measured in health and disturbed in disease. On the plant side, we discuss fundamental physiological aspects. By highlighting the shared logic and contrasting solutions that evolution has produced, the course shows how two very different life forms rely on common biochemical and physical principles to survive, adapt, and thrive.
Learning Outcomes
In simple terms, anatomy is structure, physiology is function, but structure is essential to function. The primary learning outcome is an appreciation and understanding of the design of living systems. The secondary outcome is the concept of measurement and in the specific case of human physiology, how digital representations of physiology are opening up new avenues in health.
