Energetics refers to the study of energy transformation, utilization, and exchange within biological systems. It encompasses the processes by which organisms acquire, store, and expend energy to maintain vital functions, perform work, and sustain life processes. In biological contexts, energetics encompasses various metabolic pathways, energy transduction mechanisms, and regulatory processes …
Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract
Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) encompass a wide range of conditions that affect the structure and function of the digestive system. These disorders can involve any part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (colon), rectum, and anus, as well as associated organs such …
Digestion and Absorption of Nutrients
Digestion: Digestion is the process by which food is broken down into smaller molecules that can be absorbed and utilized by the body. It occurs in several stages, primarily within the gastrointestinal tract, involving mechanical and chemical processes. 1. Mechanical Digestion: Mechanical digestion involves the physical breakdown of food into …
Liver: Definition, Anatomy, and Functions
Definition: The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body, located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. It performs a wide range of vital functions essential for metabolism, digestion, detoxification, and immune defense. Anatomy of the Liver: 1. Location: The liver is situated beneath the diaphragm, …
Pancreas: Definition, Anatomy, and Functions
Definition: The pancreas is a vital organ located in the abdominal cavity with both endocrine and exocrine functions. It plays a crucial role in digestion and glucose metabolism by producing digestive enzymes and hormones, including insulin and glucagon. Anatomy of the Pancreas: 1. Location: The pancreas is located behind the …
Salivary Glands: Definition, Anatomy, and Functions
Definition: Salivary glands are a group of exocrine glands located in and around the oral cavity that produce saliva. Saliva is a watery fluid containing enzymes, electrolytes, mucins, and antibacterial compounds. It plays a crucial role in lubricating the oral cavity, initiating digestion, and protecting the teeth and oral mucosa. …
Anatomy, and functions of small intestine and large intestine
Small Intestine Definition: The small intestine is a vital part of the digestive system in humans and many other animals. It is a long, coiled tube that is situated between the stomach and the large intestine. Despite its name, the small intestine is actually longer than the large intestine, although …
Role of pepsin in protein digestion
Pepsin plays a crucial role in the digestion of proteins within the stomach. It is a digestive enzyme produced and secreted by chief cells in the gastric glands of the stomach lining. Pepsinogen, the inactive precursor of pepsin, is also secreted by chief cells and activated to pepsin through exposure …
Acid production: definition, Mechanism, and regulation through the parasympathetic nervous system
Acid production in the stomach is a vital physiological process that plays a crucial role in digestion, protection against pathogens, and nutrient absorption. The stomach produces hydrochloric acid (HCl) in response to various stimuli, including the presence of food, gastrin hormone release, and neural signals. 1. Mechanism of Acid Production: …