00443 - General Physiology

Academic Year 2025/2026

  • Docente: Enzo Spisni
  • Credits: 9
  • SSD: BIO/09
  • Language: Italian
  • Moduli: Enzo Spisni (Modulo 1) Maria Chiara Valerii (Modulo 2)
  • Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures (Modulo 1) Traditional lectures (Modulo 2)
  • Campus: Bologna
  • Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Biological Sciences (cod. 5982)

    Also valid for First cycle degree programme (L) in Natural Sciences (cod. 5823)

Learning outcomes

The aim of this course is to illustrate the molecular e cellular basis, as well as the main homeostatic control and integration mechanisms, of selected functions of humans and animals.

Course contents

Main topics covered:

1. Introduction to Cellular Physiology

2. Nerve cells and electrical signals: synaptic transmission and neuronal integration

3. The nervous system: sensory systems, motor system and central nervous system

4. The endocrine system: endocrine glands and hormonal actions

5. The cardiovascular and circulatory system

6. Blood

7. The respiratory system: pulmonary ventilation and gas exchange

8. The urinary system: renal function and fluid and electrolyte balance

9. Muscle physiology

10. The immune system

11. The reproductive system

Physiopathological foci, such as Diabetes.



Readings/Bibliography

C.Stanfield. Fisiologia, EdiSES, Edizione 2023.
ISBN 9788836231508

Or

E. Carbone, G. Aicardi, R. Maggi. Fisiologia: dalle molecole ai sistemi integrati. EdiSES, Edizione II/2018. ISBN 9788879599795

Or

Dee Unglaub Silverthorn. Fisiologia Umana. Pearson. 8a Edizione, 2020. ISBN 9788891909473

Teaching methods

Interactive lectures on PowerPoint presentations and in-depth analysis of recent scientific articles.

 

 

Assessment methods

Optional written exam at the end of the course. Oral exams on a monthly basis.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

PowerPoint presentations.

Office hours

See the website of Enzo Spisni

See the website of Maria Chiara Valerii

SDGs

Good health and well-being

This teaching activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda.