Aims

This course consists of an introduction to cellular biology and physiology for engineers. It comprises the "cellular" and "systems" aspects of physiology, and is accessible to all students who have successfully reached the baccalaureat. It is followed by the course FSA 2221: Introduction to life science - Part II.

This course focuses on the introduction to the cell world and its functioning as well as to the physiological systems of the entire body. It also constitutes a gate to engineers with regards to specialized teaching in biomedical engineering and bioengineering. There is no prerequisite for this course. Various introductory scientific books will be recommended in the framework of the course, and the written support will consist of teachers' transparences. Access to databases of various other courses, and links to reference scientific books will be encouraged.

Main themes

The first part of the course will focus on the bases of cellular biology and physiology.
The physiological cell systems are approached, aiming at comprehending the necessity of physiological systems of the entire body:

1. Biochemistry: the chemical reactions of the living substance; the role of water
2. The cell: basic unit of the living
3. Biomolecules
4. Proteins: structures and functions
5. How do cells draw their energy from food?
6. From DNA to proteins
7. Synthesis and proteins addressing
8. Cell membrane transports
9. Cellular communications

The second part of the course will introduce the physiological systems of the entire body: the body is an open system that maintains a controlled inner environment (homeostasis) constantly mixed (blood and circulatory system), and exchanging substance with the outer environment through interfaces (respiratory system, digestive system and urinary system). Information exchanges are approached: within the body (neuroendocrinian mechanisms of the control of homeostasis) in the first place, and then between the body and the exterior (sensori-motor functions and upper functions of the nervous system). Last but not least, the reproductive function is analyzed.

Content and teaching methods

The first part of the course will focus on the bases of cellular biology and physiology.
The physiological cell systems are approached, aiming at comprehending the necessity of physiological systems of the entire body:

1. Biochemistry: the chemical reactions of the living substance; the role of water
2. The cell: basic unit of the living
3. Biomolecules
4. Proteins: structures and functions
5. How do cells draw their energy from food?
6. From DNA to proteins
7. Synthesis and proteins addressing
8. Cell membrane transports
9. Cellular communications

The second part of the course will introduce the physiological systems of the entire body: the body is an open system that maintains a controlled inner environment (homeostasis) constantly mixed (blood and circulatory system), and exchanging substance with the outer environment through interfaces (respiratory system, digestive system and urinary system). Information exchanges are approached: within the body (neuroendocrinian mechanisms of the control of homeostasis) in the first place, and then between the body and the exterior (sensori-motor functions and upper functions of the nervous system). Last but not least,

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Evaluation:
Project, written and oral exams
Materials:
Transparencies

Other credits in programs