Neurophysiology, Endocrine and Gastrointestinal Systems module (BS31025)

Neurophysiology studies how the nervous system functions. It looks at how nerve cells communicate and control body processes.

The endocrine system is a network of glands that produce and release hormones. It does this to regulate vital body functions like growth, metabolism, and mood.

The gastrointestinal system helps the body digest food, absorb nutrients, and remove waste.

In this module, you'll learn how the nervous, endocrine, and digestive systems work. You'll look at common diseases or disorders, and what effect drugs have on them. 

What you will learn

In this module, you will learn about:

• the central and peripheral nervous systems
• the chemical synapse (junctions between neurons and cells)
• neuromodulation (how chemicals regulate the activity of neurons and synapses)
• the endocrine system
• endocrine axes (interconnected hormonal pathways)
• pathophysiology (the changes that occur in these axes due to disease or dysfunction)
• structure and function of the GI tract
• drugs that effect gastro-intestinal function.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• explain disease and injury using your knowledge of these systems and physiology
• explain the basis for neurological and endocrine control of key physiological processes
• interpret and explain experimental data
• identify and retrieve appropriate information to support your own learning.

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (40%)
• written exam (60%)

Teaching methods

• lectures
• workshops
• self-directed study