Pennsylvania State University 3 credits BISC
BISC 4 Human Body: Form and Function (3) (GN) (BA) This course introduces students to the biological principles fundamental to understanding human life. Cell structure, biochemistry and metabolism, and the structure and function of major organ systems are explored in the course. Special emphasis on the relationship of the functioning of the human body to human disease is also emphasized. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to describe the basic biochemical, structural and functional characteristics of cells. They will learn the roles of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids in cells and in the body as a whole. They will understand how these molecules are used in building cell and body structures, in energy-releasing metabolism and in the copying and use of genetic information. Students will also be expected to explain how different organ systems enable the body to meet the need for support structures, oxygen, nutrients, waste elimination, internal communication, defense against infectious disease and cancer, coordination of internal activity, and reproduction. To provide context for the normal workings of the human body, students will also analyze human diseases and the current understanding of the underlying pathophysiology. As a course that meets general education (GN) requirements, students will increase their scientific literacy, their critical and analytical thinking, and ethical reasoning skills. Students will ultimately be able to use the knowledge gained in this course to better understand disease processes, and will be able to make better informed decisions regarding to their health and well-being. Students who have passed BIOL 129, 141, 161 and 163 may not schedule this course.
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