Bioc 415 – Experimental Physiology

The concepts in this course will center on the physiology of membranes and of excitable cells. Please approach this field of study with the point of view that the cell membrane is a highly dynamic, structured, complex organelle, subject to the same physical laws as is any other structure. Cell membranes are probably responsible for more tasks than any other organelle. Such tasks include maintenance of steady state conditions within the cell and communication with the outside. Your understanding of every phenomenon addressed in this course begins with an appreciation for the role of the cell membrane. In class we will discuss the concepts behind each study and will explore ways of learning about the structure and function of excitable cells through experimentation and observation. You will receive instruction and training in the use of specialized apparatus to collect data. You will design your own experiments based upon descriptions of the individual laboratory studies. If you are like most biosciences majors your appreciation of the physical sciences and mathematics amounts to relief that you have made it past those "hurdles," and you are now doing your best to forget the experience. Try to appreciate the fact that cells, organs, and organisms live in a physical world, and that it is impossible to describe physiological processes or make predictions without applying mathematics and principles of physics and chemistry. Physics is probably the least appreciated of disciplines among students of biology. Table 1 presents some major topics that are covered in freshman physics, and how they apply to studies in physiology. Prepare to take your skills to the next level. This course is designed to make you think (or, shall we say, to give you a much needed opportunity to exercise your ability to think).