Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Students require basic knowledge of physiology of the renal and respiratory systems, equivalent to that taught in PSC1002 (Physiology).

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module aims to develop knowledge and understanding of the physiology of the renal and respiratory systems, involving a thorough grounding on the integrated and cellular aspects of system performance. This includes the mechanisms by which the two systems co-ordinate activity to maintain a constant internal environment (including control of acid-base balance) and respond to changes in internal and external stimuli. Consideration will be given to changes in structure and function in different physiological conditions, including ageing, exercise and altitude. Specific malfunctions will be described at appropriate points within the module and the resultant pathophysiological conditions discussed.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module is taught as two strands, and considers:

- The importance of structure and function of the kidney; control systems regulating renal function, filtration, urine concentration; central role of the kidney in homeostasis, water balance, whole-body acid-base balance and their importance in maintaining health; effects of remodelling cardiovascular, respiratory and renal systems on control of whole-body acid-base balance and how disturbances may lead to chronic imbalance and impact upon health.

- The importance of structure and function in the respiratory system; chemical control of ventilation, including chemoreceptor function; neural and reflex control of ventilation; control, adaptations and remodelling in exercise, altitude, ageing and disease states.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On completion of this module students will be able to:

K1 Describe the main control systems involved in regulating renal function and ventilation

K2 Explain the importance of structure to kidney function

K3 Explain mechanisms involved in regulating renal blood flow and glomerular filtration and the role of the proximal tubule in modifying the initial filtrate

K4 Explain Na+, K+ and H2O balance, focusing on the importance of urinary concentration and Na+ balance in maintaining homeostasis

K5 Describe the anatomy of peripheral chemoreceptors, central chemoreceptors and respiratory centres, and explain experimental methods for investigation of each

K6 Describe the generation of respiratory rhythm

K7 Discuss the importance of peripheral and central chemoreceptors in control of ventilation and the cellular mechanisms involved in O2-sensing and CO2-sensing

K8 Explain the acute adaptations that occur in ventilation during exercise and hypoxia

K9 Describe and interpret the consequences of remodelling of the respiratory system in training, chronic exposure to hypoxia and ageing

K10 Describe and interpret how remodelling of the renal and respiratory systems leads to control of whole-body acid-base balance and how disturbances may lead to chronic imbalance and impact upon the health of an individual

K11 Describe the processes involved in maintaining Ca2+, Mg2+ and phosphate balance

Intended Skill Outcomes

On completion of this module students will be able to:

S1 Perform simple renal and respiratory function tests, at a basic level of competence

S2 Analyse, present and interpret experimental data, using commonly available software

S3 Critically analyse and appraise literature relevant to the module

S4 Communicate effectively in a written format

S5 Work effectively within a team and critically analyse and assess their own and others contributions to joint work

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures provide the core information and an indication of the scope of the course as a basis for guided independent study. The small group teaching and drop in sessions will encourage increased understanding of the material through discussion. The practical classes will provide experience in recording and analysing biological data to support the core knowledge, carrying out scientific calculations, computer-based presentation skills and working as part of a small group. Written exercises will encourage analysis and discrimination of the scientific literature at a deeper level than that presented in lectures, promoting individual creative work and also providing an opportunity to learn through collective study.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The end of semester examination assess knowledge and understanding of the course material and the ability to work under time limited conditions.

The practical assessments will judge the students’ ability to design and perform experiments, analyse and present experimental data in a scientific manner (using computer-based programs), and to draw appropriate conclusions. These group tasks will also test their ability to work effectively as a team and to develop their scientific thinking using verbal and written communication skills.

The analysis of a scientific paper tests skills in critically interpreting and evaluating scientific data.

The examination essays will test the students’ understanding of the material, examine their ability to integrate and explore the relationships between the various themes within the module, and test their ability to develop scientific arguments.

General Notes

N/A