23013 - HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

Subject type: Mandatory

Coordinator: Marc Terradellas Fernández

Trimester: Second term

Credits: 6

Academic year: 2025

Teaching course: 1

• Catalan

Content will also be taught in Spanish.

The subject of Human Physiology aims to provide the basis of knowledge of the functioning of the different organs and systems of the human body, and the relationship between these systems and their responses and adaptations in certain conditions such as pregnancy, growth and old age. As a future professional in physiotherapy, students of the degree in Physiotherapy must understand the operation of all the functional systems that make up the human body.

Physiology is the science that studies the human being in a state of health and in this way will also allow the understanding of the pathophysiological situations that lead to disease. On the other hand, the subject of Human Physiology aims to stimulate a critical attitude towards science and its paradigms.

The distribution of the theoretical and/or practical content of the subject can be consulted in the schedule and sections of the corresponding virtual classroom before it starts.
This subject aims to introduce the gender perspective in its content and development. In addition, the objectives are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda of the United Nations.

The classroom (physical or virtual) is a safe space, free of sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic and discriminatory attitudes, either towards students or towards teachers. We trust that together we can create a safe space where we can make mistakes and learn without having to suffer prejudice from others.

Topic 1. Introduction to physiology

• Basic levels of organization of the human body
• Basic life processes
• Characteristics of the human body
• Homeostasis

Topic 2. Bioenergetics and metabolism

• Catabolism
• Anabolism
• Ways to obtain energy

Topic 3. Nervous system

• Generalities
• Membrane potential and action potential
• Synapse and nerve fibers
• Reflex activity
• Autonomic nervous system
• Enteric nervous system
• Sensitive system
• Physiology of balance

Topic 4. Muscular system

• General characteristics
• Muscle tissue type
• Physiology contraction - relaxation

Topic 5. Cardiovascular system

• Generalities and anatomy
• Electrocardiogram
• Hemodynamics

Topic 6. Blood and immunity

• Generalities
• Composition
  • Blood cells
  • Plasma
• Immune system
  • Innate
  • Acquired

Topic 7. Respiratory system

• Generalities and anatomy
• Non-respiratory functions
• Respiratory functions
• Gas exchange
• Transport of gases through the blood
• Breathing regulatory mechanism

Topic 8. Renal system

• Generalities and anatomy
• Kidney function
• Glomerular filtration
• Reabsorption and excretion processes

Topic 9. Digestive system

• Digestive physiology
  • Generalities
  • Digestion
    • Mechanics
    • Chemicals
  • Absorption

Topic 10. Endocrine system

• Hypothalamic-pituitary axis
• Thyroid gland
• Parathyroid gland
• Pancreas
• Pineal gland
• Team
• Adrenal glands
• Ovaries
• Testicles

Topic 11. Adaptations in special conditions

• Pregnancy
• Growth
• Aging

Rating system: a quantitative (from 0 to 10) and qualitative grading system is used (failed, passed, notable, excellent, honor roll) according to RD 1125/2003.

This subject may consider the following indicators detailed in the following table in its evaluation proposal:

The subjects will have evaluation and recovery activities in accordance with the teaching guide and the subject's learning plan, published in their virtual classroom and which will establish the necessary requirements to be able to participate. In accordance with current UPF regulations, all students who, having participated in learning and assessment activities during the term, have obtained a failing grade for the corresponding subject in the quarterly assessment, may participate in the recovery process . Those who have not participated in the learning and assessment activities or who have waived the assessment will not be able to participate. If the grade is "not presented", you will not be able to opt for recovery and therefore the subject will have to be taken again in its entirety in the following academic year.

Any form of academic fraud will be sanctioned in accordance with the center's assessment regulations. If signs of fraud are detected, including the improper use of generative artificial intelligence tools, the subject's teaching staff may call the student for an individual interview with the aim of verifying their authorship.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in this subject is regulated in the Learning Plan. It must be consulted to find out the specific conditions of use. 

Hall John E. Guyton & Hall: Treatise on Medical Physiology. 13th ed. Barcelona: Elsevier Spain; 2016

Patton Kevin T, Thibodeau Gary A. Anatomy and Physiology. 8th ed. Barcelona: Elsevier Spain; 2013 

Tortora Gerard J, Derrickson Bryan H. Principles of Anatomy and Physiology. 15th ed. Madrid: Editorial Médica Panamericana; 2018

Pla Cristóbal Mosque. Human Physiology. From physiological reasoning to clinical reasoning. 2nd ed. Madrid: Editorial Médica Panamericana; 2018

Silverthorn Dee Unglaud. Human physiology: an integrated approach. 8th ed. Madrid: Editorial Médica Panamericana; 2019.

Tresguerres Jesús A. Fernández. Human Physiology. 5th ed. Mexico: McGraw-Hill; 2020