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CNS Embryology & Brain Hemispheres
CNS Embryology & Brain Hemispheres Neuroanatomy: Embryology and Topography NEUROEMBRYOLOGY Embryology of the Central Nervous System (CNS) The development of the nervous system begins very early in embryonic life and is a highly complex and tightly regulated process. 1. Neural Plate Formation (Week 3) Origin: the CNS appears as a slipper-shaped plate of ectoderm called…
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Topography of the Central Nervous System
Topography of the Central Nervous System Neuroanatomy: Topography of the CNS NEUROANATOMY TOPOGRAPHY OF THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM (CNS) The Nervous System (N/S) is indeed the most complex and highly organized system in the body, responsible for integrating and coordinating nearly all bodily functions. Master Control System: It acts as the body’s primary communication and…
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Muscles of the Abdominal Wall & Hernia
Abdominal Wall Muscles & Hernias Anatomy: Abdominal Muscles, Hernias, and Incisions MUSCULOSKELETAL ANATOMY Muscles of the Anterior Abdominal Wall These muscles provide structural integrity, protect internal organs, enable movements of the trunk, and contribute to vital physiological processes. Major Muscles (Flat Muscles and Vertical Muscles): External Oblique Internal Oblique Transversus Abdominis Rectus Abdominis Pyramidalis (a…
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Abdominal Wall Anatomy
Abdominal Wall Anatomy Anatomy: The Abdomen & Anterior Abdominal Wall GROSS ANATOMY The Abdomen The abdomen is a crucial anatomical region of the trunk, forming the large, flexible cavity that lies between the thorax (chest) superiorly and the pelvis inferiorly. It serves as a protective housing for many of the body’s vital visceral organs and…
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Growth Hormone Physiology
Growth Hormone Physiology Endocrine Physiology: Growth Hormone & Adrenal Glands ENDOCRINE PHYSIOLOGY GROWTH HORMONE (SOMATOTROPHIN) Growth Hormone (GH), also known as Somatotrophin, is a crucial hormone responsible for the growth and development of the body’s tissues. Structure: It is a relatively small protein molecule, composed of a single chain of 191 amino acids, with a…
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Parathyroid Gland & Calcium Metabolism
Parathyroid Gland & Calcium Metabolism Physiology: Calcium, Phosphate, and Bone Metabolism MINERAL METABOLISM INTRODUCTION TO CALCIUM METABOLISM Calcium (Ca²⁺) is the most abundant mineral in the human body, playing a pivotal role far beyond its primary association with bone health. It is an indispensable second messenger in virtually every cell, a key player in nerve…
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Hypothalamus & Pituitary Physiology
Hypothalamus & Pituitary Gland Physiology Endocrine Physiology: Hypothalamus & Pituitary Gland NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY INTRODUCTION TO THE HYPOTHALAMUS & PITUITARY GLAND The hypothalamus and pituitary gland form a crucial functional unit at the base of the brain, acting as the primary link between the nervous system and the endocrine system. Together, they regulate virtually all hormonal functions…
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Pancreas Physiology
Pancreas Physiology Endocrine Physiology: The Pancreas ENDOCRINE PHYSIOLOGY THE PANCREAS The pancreas is an elongated, flattened gland located deep in the abdomen, nestled between the stomach and the spine. It is a unique organ because it serves two vital functions: Exocrine Function: The vast majority (about 98-99%) of the pancreas is dedicated to its exocrine…
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Adrenal Gland Physiology
Adrenal Gland Physiology Endocrine Physiology: The Adrenal Gland ENDOCRINE PHYSIOLOGY ADRENAL GLAND FUNCTIONS AND REGULATION The adrenal glands, also known as suprarenal glands, are a pair of small, triangular-shaped endocrine glands located on top of each kidney (ad-renal, meaning “near the kidney”). Despite their small size, these glands are absolutely vital for life, playing a…
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Thyroid Physiology
Thyroid Gland Physiology Endocrine Physiology: The Thyroid Gland ENDOCRINE PHYSIOLOGY THE THYROID GLAND The endocrine system is a complex network of ductless glands that play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis. Unlike exocrine glands that secrete substances through ducts, endocrine glands release their chemical messengers, known as hormones, directly into the surrounding extracellular fluid. These…