Lecture 3 Biological processes Flashcards
What is the genome?
A set of ‘instructions’ for bodily systems and cells
The genome comprises the complete genetic instructions for making an organism and the corresponding tasks of the cells.
Define bodily system.
Organs and tissues that work together to serve a common purpose
Examples include the nervous system, respiratory system, and immune system.
What is an organ?
A group of specialized tissues that work together to perform a specific function
Examples include the stomach, heart, lung, and pancreas.
What is tissue?
A group of similar cells that perform the same function
Examples include bone, cartilage, tendons, glands, blood, nerves, and muscles.
What is a cell?
The basic building blocks of tissues, organs, and bodily systems
How are bodily systems interconnected?
Bodily systems interact and influence one another
For example, the circulatory system circulates oxygen from the lungs, and the skeletal system protects the central nervous system.
How many chromosomes does a typical human have?
46 chromosomes (23 from the egg and 23 from the sperm)
Exceptions include conditions like Down Syndrome, which involves an extra copy of chromosome 21.
What is a genotype?
All the genes that a person inherits
What is a phenotype?
Observable characteristics of a person
What is the epigenome?
A layer of proteins that packages the genome and points cells to specific instructions
It can be affected by prenatal environment, food, stress, and toxic chemicals.
What is DNA methylation?
A process that can activate or silence genes, altering how they are expressed
What is the primary function of the nervous system?
To serve as the body’s primary communication system
What structures comprise the central nervous system (CNS)?
Brain and spinal cord
What structures make up the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?
All other nerves in the body
What is the role of the brainstem?
Controls heartbeat and respiration
What does the cerebellum regulate?
Muscular coordination
What is the function of the cerebrum?
Center for information processing
What is the limbic system associated with?
Emotion and memory
What does the hypothalamus influence?
Hunger, thirst, body temperature, sexual behavior
What is the role of the endocrine system?
To release hormones into the bloodstream to regulate bodily functions
What is the function of the pituitary gland?
Acts as a master control system of the endocrine system
What hormones do the adrenal glands secrete?
Hormones that play a crucial role in the body’s response to stress and emergencies
What is the function of the thyroid gland?
Helps regulate growth and metabolism
What does the pancreas regulate?
Blood glucose
