Molecular Physiology and Biophysics

MPBP 301/302: Human Physiology & Pharmacology

Fall/Spring Semesters

Course Director: Chris Berger

MPBP 301

This one-semester course will examine the underlying mechanisms of cardiovascular system function, disease, and pharmacological intervention. Topics include membrane structure and function, pharmacokinetics, receptor/drug interactions, ion channels, excitable membranes, muscle contraction, control by the autonomic nervous system, cardiac function, and mechanics/regulation of vascular blood flow. Fundamental physiological principles will be interwoven with discussion of related pathologic conditions and the pharmacological basis of therapeutic intervention. An emphasis will be placed on reading primary literature to develop both a historical and contemporary framework about our understanding of the physiological basis of cardiovascular function.

MPBP 302 (continuation of Human Physiology & Pharmacology)

This one-semester course will examine the underlying mechanisms of function, disease, and pharmacological intervention in the respiratory, renal, endocrine, reproductive, and gastrointestinal systems of the human body. Fundamental physiologic principles will be interwoven with discussion of related pathologic conditions and the pharmacological basis of therapeutic intervention. An emphasis will be placed on reading primary literature to develop both a historical and contemporary framework about our understanding of the physiological basis of these organ systems.