Animal physiology and human health Field of study: Biology
Programme code: W2-S1BI19.2025

The module provides basic knowledge of biophysics necessary for a better understanding of biological phenomena and processes and for acquiring the skills to approach them in a multifaceted and rigorous manner. It emphasises The module enables students to acquire practical skills in using keys for identifying plants and animals. The aim of the module is for students to acquire: (1) knowledge of the functions of animal organisms in terms of understanding the systems and mechanisms that protect life processes, the mechanisms of physiological regulation, and the functional relationships between the environment and animals in a comparative and broader context, including human physiology; (2) practical skills in conducting experiments and analysing selected parameters characterising the functions of various animals, their proper processing and interpretation of results verified on the basis of available source materials. The module also emphasises the importance of knowledge in the field of physiology and the principles of hygiene and health protection. The lectures cover aspects related to phenomena that integrate the functions of the organism using various physiological regulatory mechanisms. Based on the knowledge gained about the systems and mechanisms that maintain animal life and animal-environment relationships, students learn about phenomena related to the maintenance of homeostasis and repair mechanisms. The topics discussed also relate to the human body, emphasising the importance of health care, maintaining physiological balance and understanding the basic biological processes that determine everyday functioning. Seminar classes enable students to familiarise themselves with additional literature related to animal and human physiology (other optional textbooks, popular science articles, review publications). They allow students to express their opinions on a wider range of topics covered by the course. They enable discussion of selected issues and allow for the discussion of any doubts that may arise. To a large extent, they enable high-level classes to be conducted on topics where it is difficult to perform experiments or laboratory measurements. Laboratory classes teach students how to conduct experiments, measure selected physiological parameters and make observations, properly process and analyse the collected data, and prepare adequate protocols and conclusions from the tasks performed, as well as the ability to verify them on the basis of available source data. They also teach bioethical behaviour towards experimental animals and the ability to use alternative physiological models or virtual laboratories where experiments on vertebrate animals cannot be performed. Students thus acquire the ability to use other available sources of information (films, computer animations, computer models).