Introduction

Human Physiology

Lesson 01 : Cell, Organization of Body

Introduction

Human body is extremely complex in structure and functions capable of performing under difficult conditions with similar efficiency. Whole body is organized in such a manner that a particular organ performs special function. This is possible through peculiar arrangement of different types of cells into an organ and subsequently into systems. Digestive system help in providing nutrients, respiratory system exchanges gases, cardiovascular system circulates blood, muscular system provides mobility, excretory system removes metabolic wastes, skeletal system provides framework, endocrine and nervous system controls various functions and reproductive system helps to reproduce. All these functions occur in coordinated manner with the help of specialized cells arranged in the shape of specialized tissues and organs. Size, shape of cells and their special properties helps them to achieve specific function. The cellular complexity has been unravelled one by one over past century to understand their minute functions.

Interesting features are:
  • Diameter of a cell measures as small as five micron (10-3 centimetres) to 150 microns.
  • Largest single cell is ovum measuring 100-150 micron in diameter.
  • Longest cell of body ventral root spinal neuron measuring more than one meter.
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Last modified: Tuesday, 10 April 2012, 4:39 AM