Pulmonary Physiology

The respiratory system is a complex network of organs and tissues that controls essential functions of the human body. This course examines pulmonary physiology at the molecular, cellular, and system level to elucidate how the human lungs function to facilitate gas exchange related to metabolism. Topics include anatomy of the respiratory system; mechanics of breathing; gas exchange and delivery to and from cells; regulation of homeostasis; neural control of breathing; and modulatory compensation in response to stressful situations, such as exercise, high altitude, diving, and sleep apnea. Course instruction overviews common pathologies, chronic diseases, and current treatments to understand the disorders of the respiratory system.