Glossary
- abdominal
-
Relating to the abdomen, the superior portion of the abdominopelvic cavity.
- abdominal aorta
-
portion of the aorta inferior to the aortic hiatus and superior to the common iliac
arteries - abdominal cavity
-
The space bounded by the abdominal walls, diaphragm, and pelvis.
- abdominopelvic cavity
-
Division of the anterior (ventral) cavity that houses the abdominal and pelvic viscera.
- abducens nerve
-
sixth cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of one of the extraocular muscles
- abduct
-
move away from midline in the sagittal plane
- abductor pollicis longus
-
muscle that inserts into the first metacarpal
- ABO blood group
-
blood-type classification based on the presence or absence of A and B glycoproteins on the erythrocyte membrane surface
- absolute refractory period
-
period time during an action period when another action potential cannot be generated because the voltage-gated Na+ channel is inactivated
- absorption
-
passage of digested products from the intestinal lumen through mucosal cells and into the bloodstream or lacteals
- absorptive state
-
also called the fed state; the metabolic state occurring during the first few hours after ingesting food in which the body is digesting food and absorbing the nutrients
- accessory digestive organ
-
includes teeth, tongue, salivary glands, gallbladder, liver, and pancreas
- acclimatization
-
process of adjustment that the respiratory system makes due to chronic exposure to high altitudes
- acetabulum
-
Large, cup-shaped cavity located on the lateral side of the hip bone; formed by the junction of the ilium, pubis, and ischium portions of the hip bone.
- acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl CoA)
-
starting molecule of the Krebs cycle
- acetylcholine
-
neurotransmitter that binds at a motor end-plate to trigger depolarization
- acetylcholine (ACh)
-
neurotransmitter that binds at a motor end-plate to trigger depolarization
- acetylcholinesterase (AChE)
-
an enzyme that breaks down ACh within synapses to regulate its effect
- acid
-
Compound that releases hydrogen ions (H+) in solution.
- acne
-
Skin condition due to infected sebaceous glands.
- acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
-
a serious and lethal disease caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and characterized by a greatly weakened immune system
- acromegaly
-
disorder in adults caused when abnormally high levels of GH trigger growth of bones in the face, hands, and feet
- acromial end of the clavicle
-
Lateral end of the clavicle that articulates with the acromion of the scapula.
- acromial process
-
Acromion of the scapula.
- acromioclavicular joint
-
Articulation between the acromion of the scapula and the acromial end of the clavicle.
- acromion
-
Flattened bony process that extends laterally from the scapular spine to form the bony tip of the shoulder.
- acrosomal reaction
-
release of digestive enzymes by sperm that enables them to burrow through the corona radiata and penetrate the zona pellucida of an oocyte prior to fertilization
- acrosome
-
cap-like vesicle located at the anterior-most region of a sperm that is rich with lysosomal enzymes capable of digesting the protective layers surrounding the oocyte
- actin
-
protein that makes up most of the thin myofilaments in a sarcomere muscle fiber
- action potential
-
change in voltage of a cell membrane in response to a stimulus that results in
transmission of an electrical signal; unique to neurons and muscle fibers - activation energy
-
Amount of energy greater than the energy contained in the reactants, which must be overcome for a reaction to proceed.
- active immunity
-
immunity developed from an individual’s own immune system
- active transport
-
Form of transport across the cell membrane that requires input of cellular energy.
- Acute mountain sickness (AMS)
-
condition that occurs a result of acute exposure to high altitude due to a low partial pressure of oxygen
- adaptive immunity
-
relatively slow but very specific and effective immune response involving lymphocytes
- adductor
-
moves the bone toward the midline
- adductor brevis
-
muscle that adducts and medially rotates the thigh
- adductor longus
-
muscle that adducts, medially rotates, and flexes the thigh
- adductor magnus
-
muscle with an anterior fascicle that adducts, medially rotates and flexes the thigh, and a posterior fascicle that assists in thigh extension
- adductor tubercle
-
Small, bony bump located on the superior aspect of the medial epicondyle of the femur.
- adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
-
Nucleotide containing ribose and an adenine base that is essential in energy transfer.
- adenylyl cyclase
-
membrane-bound enzyme that converts ATP to cyclic AMP, creating cAMP, as a result of G-protein activation
- adipocytes
-
Lipid storage cells.
- Adiponectin
-
Protein hormone primarily produced by adipose (fat) tissue that reverses insulin resistance by increasing cellular insulin sensitivity, and also lowers inflammation
- adipose tissue
-
Specialized areolar tissue dominated by adipocytes.
- adrenal cortex
-
outer region of the adrenal glands consisting of multiple layers of epithelial cells and capillary networks that produces mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids
- adrenal glands
-
endocrine glands located at the top of each kidney that are important for the regulation of the stress response, blood pressure and blood volume, water homeostasis, and electrolyte levels
- adrenal medulla
-
inner layer of the adrenal glands that plays an important role in the stress response by producing epinephrine and norepinephrine
- adrenergic
-
synapse where norepinephrine is released, which binds to α- or β-adrenergic receptors
- adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
-
anterior pituitary hormone that stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete corticosteroid hormones (also called corticotropin)
- aerobic respiration
-
production of ATP in the presence of oxygen
- afferent
-
moving toward (the central nervous system)
- afferent arterioles
-
division of the adiate arteries that supply blood to about 1.3 million nephrons each in the kidney
- afferent branch
-
component of a reflex arc that represents the input from a sensory neuron, for either a special or general sense
- afferent lymphatic vessels
-
lead into a lymph node
- afferent neuron
-
neuron that sends nervous signals towards the brain and/ or spinal cord
- afterbirth
-
third stage of childbirth in which the placenta and associated fetal membranes are expelled
- afterload
-
force the ventricles must develop to effectively pump blood against the resistance in the vessels
- agglutination
-
clustering of cells into masses linked by antibodies
- agonist
-
(also, prime mover) muscle whose contraction is responsible for producing a particular motion
- agranular leukocytes
-
leukocytes with few granules in their cytoplasm; specifically, monocytes, lymphocytes, and NK cells
- agranulocytes
-
WBCs that aren’t granulocytes including monocytes, dendritic cells and lymphocytes
- ala
-
(plural = alae) small, flaring structure of a nostril that forms the lateral side of the nares
- alarm reaction
-
the short-term stress, or the fight-or-flight response, of stage one of the general adaptation syndrome mediated by the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine
- albinism
-
Genetic disorder that affects the skin, in which there is no melanin production.
- albumin
-
most abundant plasma protein, accounting for most of the osmotic pressure of plasma
- albuminuria
-
excessive albumin detected in the urine
- aldosterone
-
hormone produced and secreted by the adrenal cortex that stimulates sodium and fluid retention and increases blood volume and blood pressure
- alimentary canal
-
continuous muscular digestive tube that extends from the mouth to the anus
- alkaloid
-
substance, usually from a plant source, that is chemically basic with respect to pH and will stimulate bitter receptors
- allantois
-
finger-like outpocketing of yolk sac forms the primitive excretory duct of the embryo; precursor to the urinary bladder
- allele
-
alternative forms of a gene that occupy a specific locus on a specific gene
- allergens
-
antigens responsible for type I hypersensitivity
- alpha (α)-adrenergic receptor
-
one of the receptors to which epinephrine and norepinephrine bind, which comes in two subtypes: α1 and α2
- alpha cell
-
pancreatic islet cell type that produces the hormone glucagon
- alveolar duct
-
small tube that leads from the terminal bronchiole to the respiratory bronchiole and is the
point of attachment for alveoli - alveolar macrophage
-
immune system cell of the alveolus that removes debris and pathogens
- alveolar pore
-
opening that allows airflow between neighboring alveoli
- alveolar process of the mandible
-
Upper border of mandibular body that contains the lower teeth.
- alveolar process of the maxilla
-
Curved, inferior margin of the maxilla that supports and anchors the upper teeth.
- alveolar sac
-
cluster of alveoli
- alveoli
-
(of the breast) milk-secreting cells in the mammary gland
- alveolus
-
small, grape-like sac that performs gas exchange in the lungs
- amacrine cell
-
type of cell in the retina that connects to the bipolar cells near the outer synaptic layer and provides the basis for early image processing within the retina
- amine hormones
-
hormones that are made from amino acids and contain a −NH3+ chemical group
- amino acid
-
Building block of proteins; characterized by an amino and carboxyl functional groups and a variable side-chain.
- amniotic cavity
-
cavity that opens up between the inner cell mass and the trophoblast; develops into amnion
- amphiarthrosis
-
slightly mobile joint
- amphipathic
-
Describes a molecule that exhibits a difference in polarity between its two ends, resulting in a difference in water solubility.
- ampulla
-
(of the uterine tube) middle portion of the uterine tube in which fertilization often occurs
- amygdala
-
nucleus deep in the temporal lobe of the cerebrum that is related to memory and emotional behavior
- anabolic hormones
-
hormones that stimulate the synthesis of new, larger molecules
- anabolic reactions
-
reactions that build smaller molecules into larger molecules
- anaerobic glycolysis
-
a non-oxygen-dependent process that breaks down glucose (sugar) to produce ATP
- anagen
-
Active phase of the hair growth cycle.
- anal canal
-
final segment of the large intestine
- anal sinus
-
recess between anal columns
- anal triangle
-
posterior triangle of the perineum that includes the anus
- anaphase
-
Third stage of mitosis (and meiosis), during which sister chromatids separate into two new nuclear regions of a dividing cell.
- anastomosis
-
(plural = anastomoses) area where vessels unite to allow blood to circulate even if there may be partial blockage in another branch
angioplasty - anatomical neck
-
Line on the humerus located around the outside margin of the humeral head.
- anatomical position
-
Standard reference position used for describing locations and directions on the human body.
- Anatomy
-
science that studies the form and composition of the body’s structures
- anchoring filaments
-
projecting, hair-like structures that prevent lymphatic capillary collapse
- anchoring junction
-
Mechanically attaches adjacent cells to each other or to the basement membrane.
- androgens
-
Class of sex steroid hormones that includes testosterone, primary sex hormone in males
- anemia
-
deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin
- angioblasts
-
stem cells that give rise to blood vessels
- angiogenesis
-
formation of blood capillary networks
- angiostrongyliasis
-
rat lungworm disease, caused by the parasitic nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis carried by slugs and snails
- angiotensin II
-
protein produced by the enzymatic action of ACE on inactive angiotensin I; actively causes vasoconstriction and stimulates aldosterone release by the adrenal cortex
- angiotensin-converting enzyme
-
the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II
- angiotensinogen
-
Protein secreted by the liver that is eventually converted into angiotensin II, which has more potent effects on blood pressure
- angle of the mandible
-
Rounded corner located at outside margin of the body and ramus junction.
- angle of the rib
-
Portion of rib with greatest curvature; together, the rib angles form the most posterior extent of the thoracic cage.
- anion
-
atom with a negative charge
- ankle joint
-
Joint that separates the leg and foot portions of the lower limb; formed by the articulations between the talus bone of the foot inferiorly, and the distal end of the tibia, medial malleolus of the tibia, and lateral malleolus of the fibula superiorly.
- antagonist
-
muscle that opposes the action of an agonist
- anterior
-
Describes the front or direction toward the front of the body; also referred to as ventral.
- anterior (ventral) horn
-
gray matter of the spinal cord containing multipolar lower motor neurons
- anterior (ventral) sacral foramen
-
One of the series of paired openings located on the anterior (ventral) side of the sacrum.
- anterior arch
-
Anterior portion of the ring-like C1 (atlas) vertebra.
- anterior border of the tibia
-
Narrow, anterior margin of the tibia that extends inferiorly from the tibial tuberosity.
- anterior cavity
-
Larger body cavity located anterior to the posterior (dorsal) body cavity; includes the serous membrane-lined pleural cavities for the lungs, pericardial cavity for the heart, and peritoneal cavity for the abdominal and pelvic organs; also referred to as ventral cavity.
- anterior compartment of the forearm
-
(anterior flexor compartment of the forearm) deep and superficial muscles that originate on the humerus and insert into the hand
- anterior compartment of the thigh
-
region that includes muscles that flex the thigh and extend the leg
- anterior corticospinal tract
-
division of the corticospinal pathway that travels through the ventral (anterior) column of the spinal cord and controls axial musculature through the medial motor neurons in the ventral (anterior) horn
- anterior cranial fossa
-
Shallowest and most anterior cranial fossa of the cranial base that extends from the frontal bone to the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone.
- anterior cruciate ligament
-
intracapsular ligament of the knee; extends from anterior, superior surface of the tibia to the inner aspect of the lateral condyle of the femur; resists hyperextension of knee
- anterior inferior iliac spine
-
Small, bony projection located on the anterior margin of the ilium, below the anterior superior iliac spine.
- anterior interventricular artery
-
(also, left anterior descending artery or LAD) major branch of the left coronary artery that follows the anterior interventricular sulcus
- anterior interventricular sulcus
-
sulcus located between the left and right ventricles on the anterior surface of the heart
- anterior longitudinal ligament
-
Ligament that runs the length of the vertebral column, uniting the anterior aspects of the vertebral bodies.
- anterior pituitary
-
Anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that secretes hormones in response to releasing hormones from the hypothalamus (also called adenohypophysis)
- anterior superior iliac spine
-
Rounded, anterior end of the iliac crest.
- anterior tibial artery
-
branches from the popliteal artery; supplies blood to the anterior tibial region; becomes the dorsalis pedis artery
- anterior tibial vein
-
forms from the dorsal venous arch; drains the area near the tibialis anterior muscle and leads to the popliteal vein
- anterograde amnesia
-
type of memory loss that occurs when a person can't form new memories
- Anterograde transport
-
the transport of substances from neuron soma toward axon terminals
- antibodies
-
(also, immunoglobulins or gamma globulins) antigen-specific proteins produced by specialized B lymphocytes that protect the body by binding to foreign objects such as bacteria and viruses
- antibody
-
antigen-specific protein secreted by plasma cells; immunoglobulin
- anticodon
-
Consecutive sequence of three nucleotides on a tRNA molecule that is complementary to a specific codon on an mRNA molecule.
- antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
-
hypothalamic hormone that is stored by the posterior pituitary and that signals the kidneys to reabsorb water (also called vasopressin or arginine vasopressin)
- antigen
-
molecule recognized by the receptors of B and T lymphocytes
- antigen presentation
-
binding of processed antigen to the protein-binding cleft of a major histocompatibility complex molecule
- antigenicity
-
the degree to which an antigen binds a T or B cell receptor
- antihistamine
-
a drug that counteracts the effects of histamine
- antimicrobial peptides
-
a relatively short chain of amino acids with anti-bacterial, -viral or -fungal properties
- antioxidants
-
Compounds that inhibit oxidation, a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals.
- antipyretic
-
fever-reducing medications
- antrum
-
fluid-filled chamber that characterizes a mature tertiary (antral) follicle
- anulus fibrosus
-
Tough, fibrous outer portion of an intervertebral disc, which is strongly anchored to the bodies of the adjacent vertebrae.
- anuria
-
absence of urine produced; production of 50 mL or less per day
- aorta
-
largest artery in the body, originating from the left ventricle and descending to the abdominal region where it bifurcates into the common iliac arteries at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra; arteries originating from the aorta distribute blood to virtually all tissues of the body
- Aortic arch
-
descends toward the inferior portions of the body and ends at the level of the intervertebral disk between the fourth and fifth thoracic vertebrae
- aortic hiatus
-
opening in the diaphragm that allows passage of the thoracic aorta into the abdominal region where it becomes the abdominal aorta
- aortic sinuses
-
small pockets in the ascending aorta near the aortic valve that are the locations of the baroreceptors (stretch receptors) and chemoreceptors that trigger a reflex that aids in the regulation of vascular homeostasis
- aortic stenosis
-
most common condition resulting from stenosis and it can be heard during auscultation as a high-pitched hum due to the turbulence created as the blood is forced through the narrowed valve
- aortic valve
-
(also, aortic semilunar valve) valve located at the base of the aorta
- APC
-
an antigen presenting cells, namely macrophages and dendritic cells
- apex
-
tip of the external nose
- aphasia
-
loss of ability to understand or express speech, caused by brain damage
- apical
-
That part of a cell or tissue which, in general, faces an open space.
- apneustic center
-
network of neurons within the pons that stimulate the neurons in the dorsal respiratory group; controls the depth of inspiration
- apocrine secretion
-
Release of a substance along with the apical portion of the cell.
- apocrine sweat gland
-
Type of sweat gland that is associated with hair follicles in the armpits and genital regions.
- aponeurosis
-
broad, tendon-like sheet of connective tissue that attaches a skeletal muscle to another skeletal muscle or to a bone
- apoptosis
-
Programmed cell death.
- appendicular
-
of the arms and legs
- appendicular skeleton
-
All bones of the upper and lower limbs, plus the girdle bones that attach each limb to the axial skeleton.
- appendix
-
(vermiform appendix) coiled tube attached to the cecum
- aquaporin
-
protein-forming water channels through the lipid bilayer of the cell; allows water to cross; activation in the collecting ducts is under the control of ADH
- aqueous humor
-
watery fluid that fills the anterior chamber containing the cornea, iris, ciliary body, and lens of the eye
- arachnoid granulation
-
outpocket of the arachnoid membrane into the dural sinuses that allows for reabsorption of CSF into the blood
- arachnoid mater
-
middle layer of the meninges named for the spider-web–like trabeculae that extend between it and the pia mater
- arachnoid trabeculae
-
filaments between the arachnoid and pia mater within the subarachnoid space
- arbor vitae
-
the cerebellar white matter, so called for its branched, tree-like appearance
- arcuate arteries
-
division of the interlobar arteries
- arcuate line of the ilium
-
Smooth ridge located at the inferior margin of the iliac fossa; forms the lateral portion of the pelvic brim.
- areola
-
highly pigmented, circular area surrounding the raised nipple and containing areolar glands that secrete fluid important for lubrication during suckling
- areolar tissue
-
(Also, loose connective tissue) a type of connective tissue proper that shows little specialization with cells dispersed in the matrix.
- arm
-
Region of the upper limb located between the shoulder and elbow joints; contains the humerus bone.
- arrector pili
-
Smooth muscle that is activated in response to external stimuli that pull on hair follicles and make the hair “stand up.”
- arrhythmias
-
unusual rhythm of heartbeats where the heart is beating too slowly, too quickly, or irregularly
- arterial circle
-
(also, circle of Willis) anastomosis located at the base of the brain that ensures continual blood supply; formed from branches of the internal carotid and vertebral arteries; supplies blood to the brain
- Arteriole
-
(also, resistance vessel) very small artery that leads to a capillary
- arteriovenous anastomosis
-
short vessel connecting an arteriole directly to a venule and bypassing the capillary beds
- artery
-
blood vessel that conducts blood away from the heart; may be a conducting or distributing vessel
- articular capsule
-
connective tissue structure that encloses the joint cavity of a synovial joint
- articular cartilage
-
Thin layer of cartilage covering an epiphysis; reduces friction and acts as a shock absorber.
- articular tubercle
-
Smooth ridge located on the inferior skull, immediately anterior to the mandibular fossa.
- articulation
-
Where two bone surfaces meet.
- artificial immunity
-
occurs when an antigen is intentionally injected into the body for the sake of generating antibodies and memory lymphocytes such as with vaccines
- ascending aorta
-
initial portion of the aorta, rising from the left ventricle for a distance of approximately 5 cm
- ascending colon
-
first region of the colon
- aspartate
-
a common excitatory amino acid neurotransmitter of the spinal cord among other roles
- Astrocyte
-
glial cell type of the CNS that provides support for neurons and maintains the blood-brain barrier
- astrocytes
-
glial cells that envelop the capillaries in the brain
- athlete’s heart
-
A type of benign hypertrophy that involves hypertrophy of primarily the myocardium of the left ventricular and not the interventricular septum
- atlas
-
First cervical (C1) vertebra.
- atmospheric pressure
-
amount of force that is exerted by gases in the air surrounding any given surface
- atom
-
smallest unit of an element that retains the unique properties of that element.
- atomic number
-
number of protons in the nucleus of an atom
- atoms
-
The simplest form of matter that can be combined to make molecules.
- ATP synthase
-
protein pore complex that creates ATP
- Atrial fibrillation
-
most common arrhythmia that starts in the atria
- atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)
-
peptide hormone produced by the walls of the atria in response to high blood pressure, blood volume, or blood sodium that reduces the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys and promotes vasodilation
- atrial reflex
-
(also, called Bainbridge reflex) autonomic reflex that responds to stretch receptors in the atria that send impulses to the cardioaccelerator area to increase HR when venous flow into the atria increases
- atrial systole
-
atrial contraction phase follows atrial depolarization which is represented by the P wave of the ECG
- atrioventricular (AV) node
-
clump of myocardial cells located in the inferior portion of the right atrium within the atrioventricular septum; receives the impulse from the SA node, pauses, and then transmits it into specialized conducting cells within the interventricular septum
- atrioventricular bundle
-
(also, bundle of His) group of specialized myocardial conductile cells that transmit the impulse from the AV node through the interventricular septum; form the left and right atrioventricular bundle branches
- atrioventricular bundle branches
-
(also, left or right bundle branches) specialized myocardial conductile cells that arise from the bifurcation of the atrioventricular bundle and pass through the interventricular septum; lead to the Purkinje fibers and also to the right papillary muscle via the moderator band
- atrioventricular septum
-
cardiac septum located between the atria and ventricles; atrioventricular valves are located here
- atrioventricular valves
-
one-way valves located between the atria and ventricles; the valve on the right is called the tricuspid valve, and the one on the left is the mitral or bicuspid valve
- atrium
-
(plural = atria) upper or receiving chamber of the heart that pumps blood into the lower chambers just prior to their contraction; the right atrium receives blood from the systemic circuit that flows into the right ventricle; the left atrium receives blood from the pulmonary circuit that flows into the left ventricle
- atrophy
-
Loss of mass and function.
- auricle
-
extension of an atrium visible on the superior surface of the heart
- auricular surface of the ilium
-
Roughened area located on the posterior, medial side of the ilium of the hip bone; articulates with the auricular surface of the sacrum to form the sacroiliac joint.
- Autocrine
-
chemical signal that elicits a response in the same cell that secreted it
- autoimmune diseases
-
a pathologic adaptive immune response against your own tissues
- autonomic nervous system (ANS)
-
functional division of the nervous system that is responsible for homeostatic reflexes that coordinate control of cardiac and smooth muscle, as well as glandular tissue
- autonomic reflex
-
reflex carried by autonomic nerves with effectors consisting of smooth muscle, cardiac muscle or glands
- Autonomic reflexes
-
regulate the ability of the autonomic nervous system to influence heart rate
- autonomic tone
-
tendency of an organ system to be governed by one division of the autonomic nervous system over the other, such as heart rate being lowered by parasympathetic input at rest
- autorhythmicity
-
ability of cardiac muscle to initiate its own electrical impulse that triggers the mechanical contraction that pumps blood at a fixed pace without nervous or endocrine control
- autosomal chromosome
-
in humans, the 22 pairs of chromosomes that are not the sex chromosomes (XX or XY)
- autosomal dominant
-
pattern of dominant inheritance that corresponds to a gene on one of the 22 autosomal chromosomes
- autosomal recessive
-
pattern of recessive inheritance that corresponds to a gene on one of the 22 autosomal chromosomes
- axial
-
a muscle anterior to the middle scalene
- axial skeleton
-
Central, vertical axis of the body, including the skull, vertebral column, and thoracic cage.
- axillary artery
-
continuation of the subclavian artery as it penetrates the body wall and enters the axillary region; supplies blood to the region near the head of the humerus (humeral circumflex arteries); the majority of the vessel continues into the brachium and becomes the brachial artery
- axillary nerve
-
systemic nerve of the arm that arises from the brachial plexus
- axillary vein
-
major vein in the axillary region; drains the upper limb and becomes the subclavian vein
- axis
-
Second cervical (C2) vertebra.
- axon
-
single process of the neuron that carries an electrical signal (action potential) away from the cell body toward a target cell
- axon hillock
-
tapering of the neuron cell body that gives rise to the axon
- axon terminal
-
end of the axon, where there are usually several branches extending toward the target cell
- axoplasm
-
cytoplasm of an axon, which is different in composition than the cytoplasm of the neuronal cell body
- azygos vein
-
originates in the lumbar region and passes through the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity on the right side of the vertebral column; drains blood from the intercostal veins, esophageal veins, bronchial veins, and other veins draining the mediastinal region; leads to the superior vena cava
- B cell
-
lymphocyte that acts by differentiating into an antibody-secreting plasma cell
- B lymphocytes
-
(also, B cells) lymphocytes that defend the body against specific pathogens and thereby provide specific immunity
- B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)
-
peptide hormone produced by the walls of the ventricles of the heart in response to high blood pressure, blood volume, or blood sodium that reduces the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys and promotes vasodilation (also called brain natriuretic peptide, although this is misleading as the heart is the main source of BNP in the human body)
- Babinski sign
-
abduction and dorsiflexion of the toes in response to testing of the plantar reflex
- bacteria
-
single-celled, prokaryotic microorganisms
- bacterial flora
-
bacteria in the large intestine
- Bainbridge reflex
-
(also, called atrial reflex) autonomic reflex that responds to stretch receptors in the atria that send impulses to the cardioaccelerator area to increase HR when venous flow into the atria increases
- baroreceptor
-
mechanoreceptor that senses the stretch of blood vessels to indicate changes in blood pressure
- basal cell
-
Type of stem cell found in the stratum basale and in the hair matrix that continually undergoes cell division, producing the keratinocytes of the epidermis.
- basal cell carcinoma
-
Cancer that originates from basal cells in the epidermis of the skin.
- basal lamina
-
Thin extracellular layer that lies underneath epithelial cells and separates them from other tissues.
- basal metabolic rate (BMR)
-
amount of energy expended by the body at rest
- basal nuclei
-
nuclei of the cerebrum (with a few components in the upper brain stem and diencephalon) that are responsible for assessing cortical movement commands and comparing them with the general state of the individual through broad modulatory activity of dopamine neurons; largely related to motor functions, as evidenced through the symptoms of Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases
- base
-
Compound that accepts hydrogen ions (H+) in solution.
- base of the metatarsal bone
-
Expanded, proximal end of each metatarsal bone.
- basement membrane
-
in epithelial tissue, a thin layer of fibrous material that anchors the epithelial tissue to the underlying connective tissue; made up of the basal lamina and reticular lamina
- basilar artery
-
blood vessel from the merged vertebral arteries that runs along the dorsal surface of the brain stem
- basilar membrane
-
in the ear, the floor of the cochlear duct on which the organ of Corti sits
- basilic vein
-
superficial vein of the arm that arises from the palmar venous arches, intersects with the median cubital vein, parallels the ulnar vein, and continues into the upper arm; along with the brachial vein, it leads to the axillary vein
- basophil
-
granulocytes with histidine containing granules and are implicated in allergies
- basophils
-
granulocytes that stain with a basic (alkaline) stain and store histamine and heparin
- bedsore
-
Sore on the skin that develops when regions of the body start necrotizing due to constant pressure and lack of blood supply; also called decubitis ulcers.
- belly
-
bulky central body of a muscle
- beta (β)-adrenergic receptor
-
one of the receptors to which epinephrine and norepinephrine bind, which comes in three subtypes: β1, β2, and β3
- Beta cell
-
pancreatic islet cell type that produces the hormone insulin
- bi
-
two
- biaxial joint
-
type of diarthrosis; a joint that allows for movements within two planes (two axes)
- biceps brachii
-
two-headed muscle that crosses the shoulder and elbow joints to flex the forearm while assisting in supinating it and flexing the arm at the shoulder
- biceps femoris
-
hamstring muscle
- bicipital groove
-
Intertubercular groove; narrow groove located between the greater and lesser tubercles of the humerus.
- bicuspid valve
-
(also, mitral valve or left atrioventricular valve) valve located between the left atrium and ventricle; consists of two flaps of tissue
- bile
-
alkaline solution produced by the liver and important for the emulsification of lipids
- bile salts
-
salts that are released from the liver in response to lipid ingestion and surround the insoluble triglycerides to aid in their conversion to monoglycerides and free fatty acids
- bilirubin
-
yellowish bile pigment produced when iron is removed from heme and is further broken down into waste products
- biliverdin
-
green bile pigment produced when the non-iron portion of heme is degraded into a waste product; converted to bilirubin in the liver
- Biogenic amine
-
class of neurotransmitters that are enzymatically derived from amino acids but no longer contain a carboxyl group such as serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine
- bipennate
-
pennate muscle that has fascicles that are located on both sides of the tendon
- bipolar cell
-
cell type in the retina that connects the photoreceptors to the RGCs
- Bipolar neurons
-
shape of a neuron with two processes extending from the neuron cell body—the axon and one dendrite
- blastocoel
-
fluid-filled cavity of the blastocyst
- blastocyst
-
term for the conceptus at the developmental stage that consists of about 100 cells shaped into an inner cell mass that is fated to become the embryo and an outer trophoblast that is fated to become the associated fetal membranes and placenta
- blastomere
-
daughter cell of a cleavage
- blood
-
liquid connective tissue composed of formed elements—erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets—and a fluid extracellular matrix called plasma; component of the cardiovascular system
- blood colloid osmotic pressure
-
created by plasma proteins, namely albumin, that do not diffuse readily across the capillary membrane and serves to hold water within the vascular space
- Blood colloidal osmotic pressure (BCOP)
-
pressure exerted by colloids suspended in blood within a vessel; a primary determinant is the presence of plasma proteins
- blood flow
-
movement of blood through a vessel, tissue, or organ that is usually expressed in terms of volume per unit of time
- blood hydrostatic pressure (BHP)
-
force blood exerts against the walls of a blood vessel or heart chamber
- blood pressure
-
force exerted by the blood against the wall of a vessel or heart chamber; can be described with the more generic term hydrostatic pressure
- blood-brain barrier
-
physical barrier between the neurons and circulating blood
- blood-brain barrier (BBB)
-
physiological barrier between the circulatory system and the central nervous system that establishes a privileged blood supply, restricting the flow of substances into the CNS
- body
-
mid-portion of the stomach
- Body mass index (BMI)
-
relative amount of body weight compared to the overall height; a BMI ranging from 18–24.9 is considered normal weight, 25–29.9 is considered overweight, and greater than 30 is considered obese
- body of the rib
-
Shaft portion of a rib.
- Bohr effect
-
relationship between blood pH and oxygen dissociation from hemoglobin
- bolus
-
mass of chewed food
- bond
-
Electrical force linking atoms.
- bone
-
Hard, dense connective tissue that forms the structural elements of the skeleton.
- bone marrow biopsy
-
diagnostic test of a sample of red bone marrow
- bone marrow transplant
-
treatment in which a donor’s healthy bone marrow with its stem cells replaces diseased or damaged bone marrow of a patient
- Bowman’s capsule
-
cup-shaped sack lined by a simple squamous epithelium (parietal surface) and specialized cells called podocytes (visceral surface) that participate in the filtration process; receives the filtrate which then passes on to the PCTs
- Boyle’s Law
-
relationship between volume and pressure as described by the formula: P1V1 = P2V2
- brachial artery
-
continuation of the axillary artery in the brachium; supplies blood to much of the brachial region; gives off several smaller branches that provide blood to the posterior surface of the arm in the region of the elbow; bifurcates into the radial and ulnar arteries at the coronoid fossa
- brachial plexus
-
nerve plexus associated with the lower cervical spinal nerves and first thoracic spinal nerve
- brachial plexus avulsion
-
trauma that results in partial or complete tearing of part of the brachial plexus
- Brachial vein
-
deeper vein of the arm that forms from the radial and ulnar veins in the lower arm; leads to the axillary vein
- brachialis
-
muscle deep to the biceps brachii that provides power in flexing the forearm.
- brachiocephalic artery
-
(also, brachiocephalic trunk) single vessel located on the right side of the body; the first vessel branching from the aortic arch; gives rise to the right subclavian artery and the right common carotid artery; supplies blood to the head, neck, upper limb, and wall of the thoracic region
- brachiocephalic vein
-
one of a pair of veins that form from a fusion of the external and internal jugular veins and the subclavian vein; subclavian, external and internal jugulars, vertebral, and internal thoracic veins lead to it; drains the upper thoracic region and flows into the superior vena cava
- brachioradialis
-
muscle that can flex the forearm quickly or help lift a load slowly
- Bradycardia
-
condition of having a heart rate (HR) below 50 beats per minute (bpm)
- brain
-
the large organ of the CNS composed of white and gray matter, contained within the cranium and continuous with the spinal cord
- brain case
-
Portion of the skull that contains and protects the brain, consisting of the eight bones that form the cranial base and rounded upper skull.
- brain stem
-
region of the adult brain that includes the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata and develops from the mesencephalon, metencephalon, and myelencephalon of the embryonic brain
- Braxton Hicks contractions
-
weak and irregular peristaltic contractions that can occur in the second and third trimesters; they do not indicate that childbirth is imminent
- brevis
-
short
- bridge
-
portion of the external nose that lies in the area of the nasal bones
- Broca’s area
-
region of the frontal lobe associated with the motor commands necessary for speech production and located only in the cerebral hemisphere responsible for language production, which is the left side in approximately 95 percent of the population
- bronchial tree
-
collective name for the multiple branches of the bronchi and bronchioles of the respiratory system
- Bronchial vein
-
drains the systemic circulation from the lungs and leads to the azygos vein
- bronchiole
-
branch of bronchi that are 1 mm or less in diameter and terminate at alveolar sacs
- bronchoconstriction
-
decrease in the size of the bronchiole due to relaxation of the muscular wall
- bronchodilation
-
increase in the size of the bronchiole due to contraction of the muscular wall
- bronchus
-
tube connected to the trachea that branches into many subsidiaries and provides a passageway for air to enter and leave the lungs
- bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT)
-
bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue, lymphoid nodule associated with the respiratory tract
- brown adipose tissue
-
highly vascularized fat tissue that is packed with mitochondria; these properties confer the ability to oxidize fatty acids to generate heat
- Brown-Sequard hemisection
-
injury in which one half (left or right) of the spinal cord is severed
- bruise
-
localized bleeding under the skin due to damaged blood vessels
- brush border
-
fuzzy appearance of the small intestinal mucosa created by microvilli
- buccinator
-
muscle that compresses the cheek
- buffer
-
Solution containing a weak acid or a weak base that opposes wide fluctuations in the pH of body fluids.
- buffy coat
-
thin, pale layer of leukocytes and platelets that separates the erythrocytes from the plasma in a sample of centrifuged blood
- bulbourethral glands
-
(also, Cowper’s glands) glands that secrete a lubricating mucus that cleans and lubricates the urethra prior to and during ejaculation
- bulbous (Ruffini) corpuscles
-
encapsulated nerve endings that detect skin stretch
- bundle of His
-
(also, atrioventricular bundle) group of specialized myocardial conductile cells that transmit the impulse from the AV node through the interventricular septum; form the left and right atrioventricular bundle branches
- bursa
-
connective tissue sac containing lubricating fluid that prevents friction between adjacent structures, such as skin and bone, tendons and bone, or between muscles
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
-
a protein associated with stress, inflammation and psychophysiological disorders
- C3
-
complement protein that fragments into C3a and C3b. C3a enhances inflammation and C3b is an opsonin and activates C5
- C5
-
complement protein that fragments into C5a and C5b. C5a enhances inflammation C5b initiates formation of the MAC by triggering the interaction of C6, C7, C8 and several C9s
- calcaneus
-
Heel bone; posterior, inferior tarsal bone that forms the heel of the foot.
- calcitonin
-
peptide hormone produced and secreted by the parafollicular cells (C cells) of the thyroid gland that functions to decrease blood calcium levels
- calcitriol
-
active form of vitamin D produced by the kidneys that activates vitamin D receptors and genes controlled by those receptors
- calcium (Ca++) pumps
-
proteins that pump Ca++ ions out of the cytoplasm to the ER or extracellular space
- callus
-
Thickened area of skin that arises due to constant abrasion.
- calorie
-
amount of heat it takes to raise 1 kg (1000 g) of water by 1 °C
- calvaria
-
(Also, skullcap) rounded top of the skull.
- calyces
-
cup-like structures receiving urine from the collecting ducts where it passes on to the renal pelvis and ureter
- CAMs
-
cell adhesion molecules that promote intercellular binding
- canaliculi
-
(Singular = canaliculus) channels within the bone matrix that house one of an osteocyte’s many cytoplasmic extensions that it uses to communicate and receive nutrients.
- capacitance
-
ability of a vein to distend and store blood
- capacitation
-
process that occurs in the female reproductive tract in which sperm are prepared for fertilization; leads to increased motility and changes in their outer membrane that improve their ability to release enzymes capable of digesting an oocyte’s outer layers
- capillary
-
smallest of blood vessels where physical exchange occurs between the blood and tissue cells surrounded by interstitial fluid
- Capillary bed
-
network of 10–100 capillaries connecting arterioles to venules
- capillary hydrostatic pressure (CHP)
-
force blood exerts against a capillary
- capitate
-
From the lateral side, the third of the four distal carpal bones; articulates with the scaphoid and lunate proximally, the trapezoid laterally, the hamate medially, and primarily with the third metacarpal distally.
- capitulum
-
Knob-like bony structure located anteriorly on the lateral, distal end of the humerus.
- capsaicin
-
molecule that activates nociceptors by interacting with a temperature-sensitive ion channel and is the basis for “hot” sensations in spicy food
- carbaminohemoglobin
-
bound form of hemoglobin and carbon dioxide
- carbohydrate
-
Class of organic compounds built from sugars, molecules containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in a 1-2-1 ratio.
- carbon (C)
-
(from Latin carbo 'coal') is a chemical element with the symbol C and atomic number 6. Widely distributed in nature, it forms more compounds than all the other elements combined.
- Carbonic anhydrase (CA)
-
enzyme that catalyzes the reaction that causes carbon dioxide and water to form carbonic acid
- cardia
-
(also, cardiac region) part of the stomach surrounding the cardiac orifice (esophageal hiatus)
- cardiac accelerator nerves
-
preganglionic sympathetic fibers that cause the heart rate to increase when the cardiovascular center in the medulla initiates a signal
- cardiac center
-
area within the medulla oblongata that regulates heart rate through the nervous and endocrine systems
- cardiac cycle
-
period of time between the onset of atrial contraction (atrial systole) and ventricular relaxation (ventricular diastole)
- cardiac muscle
-
Heart muscle, under involuntary control, composed of striated cells that attach to form fibers, each cell contains a single nucleus, contracts autonomously.
- cardiac notch
-
depression in the medial surface of the inferior lobe of the left lung where the apex of the heart is located
- cardiac output (CO)
-
amount of blood pumped by each ventricle during one minute; equals HR multiplied by SV
- cardiac reserve
-
difference between maximum and resting CO
- cardiac tamponade
-
condition where the heart is not able to pump blood anymore
- cardioacceleratory center
-
sends sympathetic signals to increase heart rate and force of contraction
- cardioinhibitory center
-
sends parasympathetic signals via the vagus nerves
- cardiovascular center
-
region in the medulla that controls the cardiovascular system through cardiac accelerator nerves and vasomotor nerves, which are components of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system
- carotid canal
-
Zig-zag tunnel providing passage through the base of the skull for the internal carotid artery to the brain; begins anteromedial to the styloid process and terminates in the middle cranial cavity, near the posterior-lateral base of the sella turcica.
- carotid sinuses
-
small pockets near the base of the internal carotid arteries that are the locations of the baroreceptors and chemoreceptors that trigger a reflex that aids in the regulation of vascular homeostasis
- carpal bone
-
One of the eight small bones that form the wrist and base of the hand; these are grouped as a proximal row consisting of (from lateral to medial) the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, and pisiform bones, and a distal row containing (from lateral to medial) the trapezium, trapezoid, capitate, and hamate bones.
- carpal tunnel
-
Passageway between the anterior forearm and hand formed by the carpal bones and flexor retinaculum.
- carpometacarpal joint
-
Articulation between one of the carpal bones in the distal row and a metacarpal bone of the hand.
- carrier
-
heterozygous individual who does not display symptoms of a recessive genetic disorder but can transmit the disorder to his or her offspring
- carrier proteins
-
Membrane proteins that bind to a substrate and change its shape to transport the substrate across the membrane.
- cartilage
-
Semi-rigid connective tissue found on the skeleton in areas where flexibility and smooth surfaces support movement.
- cartilaginous joint
-
joint at which the bones are united by hyaline cartilage (synchondrosis) or fibrocartilage (symphysis)
- Catabolic hormones
-
hormones that stimulate the breakdown of larger molecules
- Catabolic reactions
-
reactions that break down larger molecules into their constituent parts
- catabolism
-
Breakdown of molecules into smaller molecules or energy
- catagen
-
Transitional phase marking the end of the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle.
- catalyst
-
Substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself being changed in the process.
- cation
-
atom with a positive charge
- cauda equina
-
bundle of spinal nerve roots that descend from the lower spinal cord below the first lumbar vertebra and lie within the vertebral cavity; has the appearance of a horse's tail
- caudal
-
Describes a position below or lower than another part of the body proper; near or toward the tail (in humans, the coccyx, or lowest part of the spinal column); also referred to as inferior.
- caudate
-
nucleus deep in the cerebrum that is part of the basal nuclei; along with the putamen, it is part of the striatum
- cavernous sinus
-
enlarged vein that receives blood from most of the other cerebral veins and the eye socket, and leads to the petrosal sinus
- CD4+ T cells
-
Th , helper T cells, T cells that express the surface protein CD4
- cecum
-
pouch forming the beginning of the large intestine
- celiac trunk
-
(also, celiac artery) major branch of the abdominal aorta; gives rise to the left gastric artery, the splenic artery, and the common hepatic artery that forms the hepatic artery to the liver, the right gastric artery to the stomach, and the cystic artery to the gallbladder
- cell
-
The basic structural unit of all organisms.
- cell cycle
-
Life cycle of a single cell, from its birth until its division into two new daughter cells.
- cell junction
-
Point of cell-to-cell contact that connects one cell to another in a tissue.
- cell membrane
-
Membrane surrounding all animal cells, composed of a lipid bilayer interspersed with various molecules; also known as plasma membrane.
- cell-mediated immunity
-
adaptive immunity activated by helper T cell subclass Th1, involving TC
- cellular respiration
-
production of ATP from glucose oxidation via glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation
- cementum
-
bone-like tissue covering the root of a tooth
- central canal
-
Longitudinal channel in the center of each osteon; contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels; also known as the Haversian canal.
- central nervous system (CNS)
-
anatomical division of the nervous system located within the cranial and vertebral cavities, namely the brain and spinal cord
- central neuron
-
specifically referring to the cell body of a neuron in the autonomic system that is located in the central nervous system, specifically the lateral horn of the spinal cord or a brain stem nucleus
- central tolerance
-
B cell tolerance induced in immature B cells of the bone marrow
- central vein
-
vein that receives blood from hepatic sinusoids
- centriole
-
Small, self-replicating organelle that provides the origin for microtubule growth and moves DNA during cell division.
- centromere
-
Region of attachment for two sister chromatids.
- centrosome
-
Cellular structure that organizes microtubules during cell division.
- cephalic
-
Relating to the head.
- cephalic phase
-
(also, reflex phase) initial phase of gastric secretion that occurs before food enters the stomach
- cephalic vein
-
superficial vessel in the upper arm; leads to the axillary vein
- cerebellar cortex
-
receives information from most parts of the body
- cerebellar hemispheres
-
two divisions of the cerebellum on either side of the vermis
- cerebellar nuclei
-
deep cerebellar nuclei
- cerebellum
-
region of the adult brain connected primarily to the pons that developed from the metencephalon (along with the pons) and is largely responsible for comparing information from the cerebrum with sensory feedback from the periphery through the spinal cord
- cerebral aqueduct
-
connection of the ventricular system between the third and fourth ventricles located in the midbrain
- cerebral cortex
-
outer gray matter covering the forebrain, marked by wrinkles and folds known as gyri and sulci
- cerebral hemisphere
-
one half of the bilaterally symmetrical cerebrum
- Cerebral peduncles
-
white matter corticospinal tracts that connect the upper motor neurons of the primary motor cortex to the lower motor neurons in the spinal cord
- cerebrospinal fluid
-
clear liquid produced within spaces in the brain called ventricles
- cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
-
circulatory fluid within the CNS that is produced by ependymal cells in choroid plexuses
- cerebrum
-
region of the adult brain that develops from the telencephalon and is responsible for higher neurological functions such as memory, emotion, and consciousness
- cervical
-
Relating to the neck.
- cervical curve
-
Posteriorly concave curvature of the cervical vertebral column region; a secondary curve of the vertebral column.
- cervical enlargement
-
region of the ventral (anterior) horn of the spinal cord that has a larger population of motor neurons for the greater number of and finer control of muscles of the upper limb
- cervical plexus
-
nerve plexus associated with the upper cervical spinal nerves
- cervical vertebrae
-
Seven vertebrae numbered as C1–C7 that are located in the neck region of the vertebral column.
- cervix
-
elongate inferior end of the uterus where it connects to the vagina
- channel protein
-
Membrane-spanning protein that has an inner pore which allows the passage of one or more substances.
- chemical bonds
-
the attraction between two or more atoms that allows them to be able to form a stable chemical compound. The three main types include covalent, ionic, and hydrogen bonds.
- chemical digestion
-
enzymatic breakdown of food
- chemical energy
-
Form of energy that is absorbed as chemical bonds form, stored as they are maintained, and released as they are broken.
- chemical symbol
-
a one- or two-letter designation of an element. Short notation derived from the scientific name of a chemical element. Some examples of chemical symbols are O for oxygen, Zn for zinc, S for sulfur.
- chemical synapse
-
connection between two neurons, or between a neuron and its target, where a neurotransmitter diffuses across a very short distance
- chemokine
-
soluble, long-range, cell-to-cell communication molecule
- chemoreceptor
-
sensory receptor cell that is sensitive to chemical stimuli, such as in taste, smell, or pain
- chemotaxis
-
cells following a chemical concentration gradient such as leukocytes following a chemokine trail toward a site of injury
- chief cell
-
gastric gland cell that secretes pepsinogen
- Cholecystokinin
-
peptide hormone released from the small intestine that promotes secretion of pancreatic enzymes and release of bile from the gallbladder
- cholinergic
-
system neurotransmitter system of acetylcholine, which includes its receptors and the
enzyme acetylcholinesterase - chondrocytes
-
Cells of the cartilage.
- chordae tendineae
-
string-like extensions of tough connective tissue that extend from the flaps of the atrioventricular valves to the papillary muscles
- chorion
-
membrane that develops from the syncytiotrophoblast, cytotrophoblast, and mesoderm; surrounds the embryo and forms the fetal portion of the placenta through the chorionic villi
- chorionic villi
-
projections of the chorionic membrane that burrow into the endometrium and develop into the placenta
- choroid
-
highly vascular tissue in the wall of the eye that supplies the outer retina with blood
- choroid plexus
-
specialized structures containing ependymal cells lining blood capillaries that filter blood to produce CSF in the four ventricles of the brain
- chromaffin
-
neuroendocrine cells of the adrenal medulla
- chromaffin cells
-
neuroendocrine cells of the adrenal medulla that release epinephrine and norepinephrine into the bloodstream as part of sympathetic system activity
- chromatin
-
Substance consisting of DNA and associated proteins.
- chromosome
-
Condensed version of chromatin.
- chronotropic agents
-
factors that can change heart rate
- chyle
-
lipid-rich lymph inside the lymphatic capillaries of the small intestine
- chylomicron
-
large lipid-transport compound made up of triglycerides, phospholipids, cholesterol, and proteins
- chylomicrons
-
vesicles containing cholesterol and triglycerides that transport lipids out of the intestinal cells and into the lymphatic and circulatory systems
- chyme
-
soupy liquid created when food is mixed with digestive juices
- chymotrypsin
-
pancreatic enzyme that digests protein
- cilia
-
Small appendage on certain cells formed by microtubules and modified for movement of materials across the cellular surface.
- ciliary body
-
smooth muscle structure on the interior surface of the iris that controls the shape of the lens through the zonule fibers
- ciliary ganglion
-
one of the terminal ganglia of the parasympathetic system, located in the posterior orbit, axons from which project to the iris
- circadian rhythm
-
Approximately 24-hour cycle of physiological changes that occur in part due to neural stimuli daily hormonal fluctuations
- circle of Willis
-
unique anatomical arrangement of blood vessels around the base of the brain that maintains perfusion of blood into the brain even if one component of the structure is blocked or narrowed
- circular
-
(also, sphincter) fascicles that are concentrically arranged around an opening
- circular fold
-
(also, plica circulare) deep fold in the mucosa and submucosa of the small intestine
- circulating hormones
-
hormones secreted into the extracellular fluid and diffuse into the blood or lymph, where they can be carried throughout the body
- circulatory shock
-
also simply called shock; a life-threatening medical condition in which the circulatory system is unable to supply enough blood flow to provide adequate oxygen and other nutrients to the tissues to maintain cellular metabolism
- circumflex artery
-
branch of the left coronary artery that follows coronary sulcus
- cirrhosis
-
a chronic disease of the liver marked by degeneration of cells, inflammation, and fibrous thickening of tissue. It is typically a result of alcoholism or hepatitis
- cisterna chyli
-
bag-like vessel that forms the beginning of the thoracic duct
- citric acid cycle
-
also called the Krebs cycle or the tricarboxylic acid cycle; converts pyruvate into CO2 and high-energy FADH2, NADH, and ATP molecules
- class switching
-
ability of B cells to change the class of antibody they produce without altering the
specificity for antigen, aka isotype switching - classical pathway
-
complement proteins are activated by the presence of pathogen bound antibodies
- clavicle
-
Collarbone; elongated bone that articulates with the manubrium of the sternum medially and the acromion of the scapula laterally.
- clavicular notch
-
Paired notches located on the superior-lateral sides of the sternal manubrium, for articulation with the clavicle.
- cleavage
-
form of mitotic cell division in which the cell divides but the total volume remains unchanged; this process serves to produce smaller and smaller cells
- clitoris
-
(also, glans clitoris) nerve-rich area of the vulva that contributes to sexual sensation during intercourse
- clonal expansion
-
proliferation of B lymphocytes with a specific antigen receptor into a population with varying degree of antigen binding strength
- closed reduction
-
Manual manipulation of a broken bone to set it into its natural position without surgery.
- clotting
-
Also called coagulation; complex process by which blood components form a plug to stop bleeding.
- clotting factors
-
group of 12 identified substances active in coagulation
- coagulation
-
formation of a blood clot; part of the process of hemostasis
- coccyx
-
Small bone located at inferior end of the adult vertebral column that is formed by the fusion of four coccygeal vertebrae; also referred to as the “tailbone.”
- cochlea
-
auditory portion of the inner ear containing structures to transduce sound stimuli
- cochlear duct
-
space within the auditory portion of the inner ear that contains the organ of Corti and is adjacent to the scala tympani and scala vestibuli on either side
- codominance
-
pattern of inheritance that corresponds to the equal, distinct, and simultaneous expression of two different alleles
- codon
-
Consecutive sequence of three nucleotides on an mRNA molecule that corresponds to a specific amino acid.
- collagen fiber
-
Flexible fibrous proteins that give connective tissue tensile strength.
- colloid
-
Liquid mixture in which the solute particles consist of clumps of molecules large enough to scatter light.
- colon
-
part of the large intestine between the cecum and the rectum
- colony-stimulating factors (CSFs)
-
glycoproteins that trigger the proliferation and differentiation of myeloblasts into granular leukocytes (basophils, neutrophils, and eosinophils)
- colostrum
-
thick, yellowish substance secreted from a mother’s breasts in the first postpartum days; rich in immunoglobulins
- common bile duct
-
structure formed by the union of the common hepatic duct and the gallbladder’s cystic duct
- common carotid artery
-
right common carotid artery arises from the brachiocephalic artery, and the left common carotid arises from the aortic arch; gives rise to the external and internal carotid arteries; supplies the respective sides of the head and neck
- common hepatic artery
-
branch of the celiac trunk that forms the hepatic artery, the right gastric artery, and the cystic artery
- common hepatic duct
-
duct formed by the merger of the two hepatic ducts
- common iliac artery
-
branch of the aorta that leads to the internal and external iliac arteries
- common iliac vein
-
one of a pair of veins that flows into the inferior vena cava at the level of L5; the left common iliac vein drains the sacral region; divides into external and internal iliac veins near the inferior portion of the sacroiliac joint
- common pathway
-
final coagulation pathway activated either by the intrinsic or the extrinsic pathway, and ending in the formation of a blood clot
- communicating rami
-
the autonomic branches of a spinal nerve consisting of either preganglionic or postganglionic sympathetic neurons
- compact bone
-
Dense osseous tissue that can withstand compressive forces.
- complement
-
enzymatic cascade of constitutive blood proteins that have anti-pathogen effects, including
the direct killing of bacteria - compliance
-
degree to which a blood vessel can stretch as opposed to being rigid
- compound
-
Substance composed of two or more different elements joined by chemical bonds.
- compressor urethrae
-
deep perineal muscle in women
- concentration
-
Number of particles within a given space.
- concentration gradient
-
Difference in the concentration of a substance between two regions.
- concentric contraction
-
muscle contraction that shortens the muscle to move a load
- conceptus
-
pre-implantation stage of a fertilized egg and its associated membranes
- conducting (nodal) cells
-
cells that initiate and propagate the action potential (the electrical impulse) that travels throughout the heart
- conducting cells
-
specialized cells that transmit electrical impulses throughout the heart and trigger contraction by the myocardial contractile cells
- conducting zone
-
region of the respiratory system that includes the organs and structures that provide passageways for air and are not directly involved in gas exchange
- conduction
-
transfer of heat through physical contact
- condylar process of the mandible
-
Thickened upward projection from posterior margin of mandibular ramus.
- condyle
-
Oval-shaped process located at the top of the condylar process of the mandible.
- connective tissue
-
Type of tissue that serves to hold in place, connect, and integrate the body’s organs and systems.
- connective tissue membrane
-
Connective tissue that encapsulates organs and lines movable joints.
- connective tissue proper
-
Connective tissue containing a viscous matrix, fibers, and cells.
- constant region
-
domain part of a lymphocyte antigen receptor that does not vary much between different
receptor types - continuous conduction
-
slow propagation of an action potential along an unmyelinated axon owing to voltage-gated Na+ channels located along the entire length of the cell membrane
- contractile cells
-
these cells conduct impulses and undergo contractions that pump blood through the body
- contraction phase
-
twitch contraction phase when tension increases
- contralateral
-
word meaning “on the opposite side,” as in axons that cross the midline in a fiber tract
- contralateral reflex
-
reflex in which receptor and effector are on opposite sides of the body
- control center
-
Compares values to their normal range; deviations cause the activation of an effector.
- conus medullaris
-
the end of the spinal cord that tapers into a point
- convection
-
transfer of heat between the skin and air or water
- convergent
-
fascicles that extend over a broad area and converge on a common attachment site
- Converging circuit
-
a neuron circuit by which several input neurons converge onto one neuron
- coracoclavicular ligament
-
Strong band of connective tissue that anchors the coracoid process of the scapula to the lateral clavicle; provides important indirect support for the acromioclavicular joint.
- coracoid process
-
Short, hook-like process that projects anteriorly and laterally from the superior margin of the scapula.
- corn
-
Type of callus that is named for its shape and the elliptical motion of the abrasive force.
- cornea
-
fibrous covering of the anterior region of the eye that is transparent so that light can pass through it
- corona radiata
-
in an oocyte, a layer of granulosa cells that surrounds the oocyte and that must be penetrated by sperm before fertilization can occur
- coronal suture
-
Joint that unites the frontal bone to the right and left parietal bones across the top of the skull.
- coronary arteries
-
branches of the ascending aorta that supply blood to the heart; the left coronary artery feeds the left side of the heart, the left atrium and ventricle, and the interventricular septum; the right coronary artery feeds the right atrium, portions of both ventricles, and the heart conduction system
- coronary artery disease
-
also known as coronary heart disease, is characterized by the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis), which is a fatty material including cholesterol, within the coronary arteries
- coronary circulation
-
circulation of blood in the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle
- coronary sinus
-
large, thin-walled vein on the posterior surface of the heart that lies within the atrioventricular sulcus and drains the heart myocardium directly into the right atrium
- coronary sulcus
-
sulcus that marks the boundary between the atria and ventricles
- coronary veins
-
vessels that drain the heart and generally parallel the large surface arteries
- coronoid fossa
-
Depression on the anterior surface of the humerus above the trochlea; this space receives the coronoid process of the ulna when the elbow is maximally flexed.
- coronoid process of the mandible
-
Flattened upward projection from the anterior margin of the mandibular ramus.
- coronoid process of the ulna
-
Projecting bony lip located on the anterior, proximal ulna; forms the inferior margin of the trochlear notch.
- corpora quadrigemina
-
superior and inferior colliculi that are parts of the visual and the auditory pathways respectively
- corpus albicans
-
nonfunctional structure remaining in the ovarian stroma following structural and functional regression of the corpus luteum
- corpus callosum
-
large white matter structure that connects the right and left cerebral hemispheres
- corpus luteum
-
transformed follicle after ovulation that secretes progesterone
- corpus spongiosum
-
(plural = corpora cavernosa) column of erectile tissue in the penis that fills with blood during an erection and surrounds the penile urethra on the ventral portion of the penis
- corpus striatum
-
major input site of the basal ganglia (or basal nuclei)
- corrugator supercilii
-
prime mover of the eyebrows
- cortex
-
In hair, the second or middle layer of keratinocytes originating from the hair matrix, as seen in a cross-section of the hair bulb.
- cortical nephrons
-
nephrons with loops of Henle that do not extend into the renal medulla
- cortical reaction
-
following fertilization, the release of cortical granules from the oocyte’s plasma membrane into the zona pellucida creating a fertilization membrane that prevents any further attachment or penetration of sperm; part of the slow block to polyspermy
- corticobulbar tract
-
connection between the cortex and the brain stem responsible for generating movement
- corticospinal tract
-
connection between the cortex and the spinal cord responsible for generating movement
- cortisol
-
glucocorticoid important in gluconeogenesis, the catabolism of glycogen, and downregulation of the immune system
- costal cartilage
-
Hyaline cartilage structure attached to the anterior end of each rib that provides for either direct or indirect attachment of most ribs to the sternum.
- costal facet
-
Site on the lateral sides of a thoracic vertebra for articulation with the head of a rib.
- costal groove
-
Shallow groove along the inferior margin of a rib that provides passage for blood vessels and a nerve.
- costoclavicular ligament
-
Band of connective tissue that unites the medial clavicle with the first rib.
- countercurrent multiplier system
-
involves the descending and ascending loops of Henle directing forming urine in opposing directions to create a concentration gradient when combined with variable permeability and sodium pumping
- covalent bond
-
Chemical bond in which two atoms share electrons, thereby completing their valence shells.
- covalent bonds
-
chemical bond in which two atoms share electrons, thereby completing their valence shells.
- COVID-19
-
coronavirus disease-2019 caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) responsible for a worldwide pandemic in the year 2020
- coxal bone
-
Hip bone.
- cranial
-
Describes a position above or higher than another part of the body proper; also referred to as superior.
- cranial cavity
-
Interior space of the skull that houses the brain.
- cranial nerve
-
one of twelve nerves connected to the brain that are responsible for sensory or motor functions of the head and neck
- cranial reflex
-
reflex carried by cranial nerves with an integration center within the brain
- cranium
-
Skull.
- creatine phosphate
-
phosphagen used to store energy from ATP and transfer it to muscle
- cremaster muscle
-
surrounds each testis like a muscular sling; contracts to elevate the testes when exposed to cold
- cribriform plate
-
Small, flattened areas with numerous small openings, located to either side of the midline in the floor of the anterior cranial fossa; formed by the ethmoid bone.
- cricoid cartilage
-
portion of the larynx composed of a ring of cartilage with a wide posterior region and a thinner anterior region; attached to the esophagus
- crista galli
-
Small upward projection located at the midline in the floor of the anterior cranial fossa; formed by the ethmoid bone.
- cross matching
-
blood test for identification of blood type using antibodies and small samples of blood
- crossed extensor reflex
-
reflex that causes limb extension and occurs simultaneous and contralateral to the withdrawal reflex
- crown
-
portion of tooth visible superior to the gum line
- CSFs
-
colony-stimulating factors, induce proliferation of WBCs in the bone marrow
- cuboid
-
Tarsal bone that articulates posteriorly with the calcaneus bone, medially with the lateral cuneiform bone, and anteriorly with the fourth and fifth metatarsal bones.
- cupula
-
specialized structure within the base of a semicircular canal that bends the stereocilia of hair cells when the head rotates by way of the relative movement of the enclosed fluid
- current
-
the movement of charged particles from one area to another
- cuspid
-
(also, canine) pointed tooth used for tearing and shredding food
- cutaneous membrane
-
Skin; epithelial tissue made up of a stratified squamous epithelial cells that cover the outside of the body.
- cutaneous reflex
-
reflex elicited by stimulating receptors located in the skin
- cuticle
-
In hair, the outermost layer of keratinocytes originating from the hair matrix, as seen in a cross-section of the hair bulb.
- cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)
-
second messenger that, in response to adenylyl cyclase activation, triggers a phosphorylation cascade
- cystic artery
-
branch of the common hepatic artery; supplies blood to the gallbladder
- cystic duct
-
duct through which bile drains and enters the gallbladder
- cytokine
-
soluble, short-range, cell-to-cell communication molecule
- cytokines
-
class of proteins that act as autocrine or paracrine signaling molecules; in the cardiovascular system, they stimulate the proliferation of progenitor cells and help to stimulate both nonspecific and specific resistance to disease
- cytokinesis
-
Final stage in cell division, where the cytoplasm divides to form two separate daughter cells.
- cytoplasm
-
Internal material between the cell membrane and nucleus of a cell, mainly consisting of a water-based fluid called cytosol, within which are all the other organelles and cellular solute and suspended materials.
- cytoskeleton
-
“Skeleton” of a cell; formed by rod-like proteins that support the cell’s shape and provide, among other functions, locomotive abilities.
- cytosol
-
Clear, semi-fluid medium of the cytoplasm, made up mostly of water.
- cytotoxic T cells (Tc)
-
T lymphocytes with the ability to induce apoptosis in target cells
- Dalton’s Law
-
statement of the principle that a specific gas type in a mixture exerts its own pressure, as if that specific gas type was not part of a mixture of gasses
- DAMPs
-
damage-associated molecular patterns recognized by PRRs of innate immunity
- dartos muscle
-
subcutaneous muscle layer of the scrotum; capable of tightening and wrinkling the scrotum when exposed to cold
- decomposition reaction
-
Type of catabolic reaction in which one or more bonds within a larger molecule are broken, resulting in the release of smaller molecules or atoms.
- decussate
-
to cross the midline, as in fibers that project from one side of the body to the other
- decussation
-
when fibers cross from one side of a structure to the other side of a structure
- deep
-
Describes a position farther from the surface of the body.
- deep femoral artery
-
branch of the femoral artery; gives rise to the lateral circumflex arteries
- deep femoral vein
-
drains blood from the deeper portions of the thigh and leads to the femoral vein
- deep tendon reflexes
-
clinical procedure used to test the stretch reflex in various muscles by tapping on the muscle tendon to stretch the muscle
- deep transverse perineal
-
deep perineal muscle in men
- defecation
-
elimination of undigested substances from the body in the form of feces
- defensin
-
a chemical class type of AMPs
- defensins
-
antimicrobial proteins released from neutrophils and macrophages that create openings in the plasma membranes to kill cells
- defibrillation
-
treatment which uses special paddles to apply an electric charge to the heart
- Deglutition
-
three-stage process of swallowing
- dehydration
-
state of containing insufficient water in blood and other tissues
- delayed hypersensitivity (type IV)
-
T cell-mediated immune response against pathogens infiltrating interstitial tissues, causing cellular infiltrate
- Delta cell
-
minor cell type in the pancreas that secretes the hormone somatostatin
- deltoid
-
shoulder muscle that abducts the arm as well as flexes and medially rotates it, and extends and laterally rotates it
- deltoid tuberosity
-
Roughened, V-shaped region located laterally on the mid-shaft of the humerus.
- denaturation
-
Change in the structure of a molecule through physical or chemical means.
- dendrite
-
one of many branchlike processes that extends from the neuron cell body and functions as a contact for incoming signals (synapses) from other neurons or sensory cells
- dendritic cell
-
an APC similar to macrophages
- dens
-
Bony projection (odontoid process) that extends upward from the body of the C2 (axis) vertebra.
- dense connective tissue
-
Connective tissue proper that contains many fibers that provide both elasticity and protection.
- denticulate ligaments
-
lateral extensions of the pia mater that stabilize the spinal cord in the vertebral canal
- dentin
-
bone-like tissue immediately deep to the enamel of the crown or cementum of the root of a tooth
- deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
-
Deoxyribose-containing nucleotide that stores genetic information.
- depolarization
-
change in a cell membrane potential from rest toward zero. It results from the movement of sodium ions entering the cells
- depolarized
-
change in a cell membrane potential from rest toward zero effector protein enzyme that catalyzes the generation of a new molecule, which acts as the intracellular mediator of the signal that binds to the receptor
- dermal papilla
-
(Plural = dermal papillae) extension of the papillary layer of the dermis that increases surface contact between the epidermis and dermis.
- dermcidin
-
a chemical class type of AMPs
- dermis
-
Layer of skin between the epidermis and hypodermis, composed mainly of connective tissue and containing blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands, and other structures.
- Descending aorta
-
portion of the aorta that continues downward past the end of the aortic arch; subdivided into the thoracic aorta and the abdominal aorta
- descending colon
-
part of the colon between the transverse colon and the sigmoid colon
- desmosome
-
Structure that forms an impermeable junction between cells.
- detrusor muscle
-
smooth muscle in the bladder wall; fibers run in all directions to reduce the size of the organ when emptying it of urine
- diabetes mellitus
-
condition caused by destruction or dysfunction of the beta cells of the pancreas or cellular resistance to insulin that results in abnormally high blood glucose levels
- diabetogenic effect
-
Elevated blood glucose levels caused by a conditon
- dialysis
-
process to artificially filter blood
- diapedesis
-
(also, emigration) process by which leukocytes squeeze through adjacent cells in a blood vessel wall to enter tissues
- diaphragm
-
the partition separating the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity
- diaphysis
-
Tubular shaft that runs between the proximal and distal ends of a long bone.
- diarthrosis
-
freely mobile joint
- diastole
-
period of time when the heart muscle is relaxed and the chambers fill with blood
- diastolic pressure
-
lower number recorded when measuring arterial blood pressure; represents the minimal value corresponding to the pressure that remains during ventricular relaxation
- dicrotic notch
-
It is seen in the ECG and produced by the tendency for blood to flow back into the atria from the major arteries as ventricular pressure drops, following ventricular repolarization, when the ventricles begin to relax (ventricular diastole), and pressure within the ventricles drops.
- diencephalon
-
region of the adult brain that retains its name from embryonic development and includes the thalamus and hypothalamus
- differentiation
-
Process by which unspecialized cells become specialized in structure and function.
- diffusion
-
Movement of a substance from an area of higher concentration to one of lower concentration.
- digastric
-
muscle that has anterior and posterior bellies and elevates the hyoid bone and larynx when one swallows; it also depresses the mandible
- digital arteries
-
formed from the superficial and deep palmar arches; supply blood to the digits
- digital veins
-
drain the digits and feed into the palmar arches of the hand and dorsal venous arch of the foot
- dilation
-
first stage of childbirth, involving an increase in cervical diameter
- diploë
-
Layer of spongy bone, that is sandwiched between two the layers of compact bone found in flat bones.
- diploid
-
having two complete sets of chromosomes
- direct pathways
-
the corticospinal and corticobulbar tracts that give conscious control over movement consisting of upper motor neuron originating in the primary motor cortex and lower motor neuron located in the ventral horn or brainstem, respectively
- disaccharide
-
Pair of carbohydrate monomers bonded by dehydration synthesis via a glycosidic bond.
- disease
-
abnormal functioning part of the body, illness, sickness or ailment
- distal
-
Describes a position farther from the point of attachment or the trunk of the body.
- distal convoluted tubules
-
portions of the nephron distal to the loop of Henle that receive hyposmotic filtrate from the loop of Henle and empty into collecting ducts
- distal radioulnar joint
-
Articulation between the head of the ulna and the ulnar notch of the radius.
- distal tibiofibular joint
-
Articulation between the distal fibula and the fibular notch of the tibia.
- disulfide bond
-
Covalent bond formed within a polypeptide between sulfide groups of sulfur-containing amino acids, for example, cysteine.
- diuresis
-
excess production of urine
- diverging
-
a neuron circuit whereby one input neuron acts on several other neurons
- DNA polymerase
-
Enzyme that functions in adding new nucleotides to a growing strand of DNA during DNA replication.
- DNA replication
-
Process of duplicating a molecule of DNA.
- dominant
-
describes a trait that is expressed both in homozygous and heterozygous form
- dopamine
-
a type of monoamine neurotransmitter
- dorsal
-
Describes the back or direction toward the back of the body; also referred to as posterior.
- dorsal (posterior) root
-
axons entering the posterior horn of the spinal cord
- dorsal (posterior) root ganglion
-
sensory ganglion attached to the posterior nerve root of a spinal nerve
- dorsal cavity
-
Posterior body cavity that houses the brain and spinal cord; also referred to the posterior body cavity.
- dorsal column
-
white matter tracts carrying touch and proprioception sensory information and located between the dorsal horns of the spinal cord
- dorsal column-medial lemniscus tract
-
ascending tract of the spinal cord associated with fine touch and proprioceptive sensations
- dorsal longitudinal fasciculus
-
major output pathway of the hypothalamus that descends through the gray matter of the brain stem and into the spinal cord
- dorsal ramus
-
the dorsal branch of a spinal nerve consisting of both sensory and motor neurons
- dorsal respiratory group (DRG)
-
region of the medulla oblongata that stimulates the contraction of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles to induce inspiration
- dorsal venous arch
-
drains blood from digital veins and vessels on the superior surface of the foot
- dorsalis pedis artery
-
forms from the anterior tibial artery; branches repeatedly to supply blood to the tarsal and dorsal regions of the foot
- dorsum nasi
-
intermediate portion of the external nose that connects the bridge to the apex and is supported by the nasal bone
- ductus arteriosus
-
shunt in the pulmonary trunk that diverts oxygenated blood back to the aorta
- ductus deferens
-
(also, vas deferens) duct that transports sperm from the epididymis through the spermatic cord and into the ejaculatory duct; also referred as the vas deferens
- ductus venosus
-
shunt that causes oxygenated blood to bypass the fetal liver on its way to the inferior vena cava
- duodenal gland
-
(also, Brunner’s gland) mucous-secreting gland in the duodenal submucosa
- duodenum
-
first part of the small intestine, which starts at the pyloric sphincter and ends at the jejunum
- dura mater
-
tough, fibrous, outer layer of the meninges that is attached to the inner surface of the cranium and vertebral column and surrounds the entire CNS
- dural venous sinus
-
a group of sinuses or blood channels that drains venous blood circulating from the cranial cavity
- dynein
-
a motor protein involved in neuronal retrograde transport
- ear ossicles
-
Three small bones located in the middle ear cavity that serve to transmit sound vibrations to the inner ear.
- eccentric contraction
-
muscle contraction that lengthens the muscle as the tension is diminished
- eccrine sweat gland
-
Type of sweat gland that is common throughout the skin surface; it produces a hypotonic sweat for thermoregulation.
- ectoderm
-
Outermost embryonic germ layer from which the epidermis and the nervous tissue derive.
- ectopic pregnancy
-
implantation of an embryo outside of the uterus
- eczema
-
Skin condition due to an allergic reaction, which resembles a rash.
- Edinger–Westphal nucleus
-
location of parasympathetic neurons that project to the ciliary ganglion
- effector
-
Organ that can cause a change in a value.
- effector B cells
-
plasma cells, activated B lymphocytes
- effector T cells
-
immune cells with a direct, adverse effect on a pathogen
- efferent
-
moving away from (the central nervous system)
- efferent arteriole
-
arteriole carrying blood from the glomerulus to the capillary beds around the convoluted tubules and loop of Henle; portion of the portal system
- efferent branch
-
component of a reflex arc that represents the output, with the target being an effector, such as muscle or glandular tissue
- efferent lymphatic vessels
-
lead out of a lymph node
- efferent neuron
-
neuron that sends nervous signals away from the brain and/ or spinal cord
- eicosanoid
-
Type of lipid-derived molecule derived from arachadonic acid that acts primarily as paracrine factors
- ejaculatory duct
-
duct that connects the ampulla of the ductus deferens with the duct of the seminal vesicle at the prostatic urethra
- elastase
-
pancreatic enzyme that digests protein
- elastic artery
-
(also, conducting artery) artery with abundant elastic fibers located closer to the heart, which maintains the pressure gradient and conducts blood to smaller branches
- elastic cartilage
-
Type of cartilage, with elastin as the major protein, characterized by rigid support as well as elasticity.
- elastic fiber
-
Fibrous protein within connective tissue that contains a high percentage of the protein elastin that allows the fibers to stretch and return to original size.
- elasticity
-
ability to stretch and rebound
- elastin fibers
-
Fibers made of the protein elastin that increase the elasticity of the dermis.
- elbow joint
-
Joint located between the upper arm and forearm regions of the upper limb; formed by the articulations between the trochlea of the humerus and the trochlear notch of the ulna, and the capitulum of the humerus and the head of the radius.
- electrical gradient
-
Difference in the electrical charge (potential) between two regions.
- electrical synapse
-
connection between two neurons, or any two electrically active cells, where ions flow
directly through channels spanning their adjacent cell membranes - electrocardiogram (ECG)
-
surface recording of the electrical activity of the heart that can be used for diagnosis of irregular heart function; also abbreviated as EKG
- electron
-
Subatomic particle having a negative charge and nearly no mass; found orbiting the atom’s nucleus.
- electron cloud
-
the region of negative charge surrounding an atomic nucleus that is associated with an atomic orbital. The model is a way to help visualize the most probable position of electrons in an atom.
- electron shells
-
Area of space a given distance from an atom’s nucleus in which electrons are grouped.
- electron transport chain (ETC)
-
ATP production pathway in which electrons are passed through a series of oxidation-reduction reactions that forms water and produces a proton gradient
- eleiden
-
Clear protein-bound lipid found in the stratum lucidum that is derived from keratohyalin and helps to prevent water loss.
- elements
-
substances that cannot be created or broken down by ordinary chemical means
- embolus
-
thrombus that has broken free from the blood vessel wall and entered the circulation
- embryo
-
developing human during weeks 3–8
- embryonic folding
-
process by which an embryo develops from a flat disc of cells to a three-dimensional shape resembling a cylinder
- enamel
-
covering of the dentin of the crown of a tooth
- encapsulated ending
-
configuration of a sensory receptor neuron with dendrites surrounded by specialized structures to aid in transduction of a particular type of sensation, such as the lamellated corpuscles in the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue
- end diastolic volume (EDV)
-
(also, preload) the amount of blood in the ventricles at the end of atrial systole just prior to ventricular contraction
- endemic
-
endemic
- endocardium
-
innermost layer of the heart lining the heart chambers and heart valves; composed of endothelium reinforced with a thin layer of connective tissue that binds to the myocardium
- endochondral ossification
-
Process in which bone forms by replacing hyaline cartilage.
- endocrine gland
-
Groups of cells that release chemical signals into the intercellular fluid to be picked up and transported to their target organs by blood.
- endocrine system
-
cells, tissues, and organs that secrete hormones as a primary or secondary function and play an integral role in normal bodily processes
- endocytosis
-
Import of material into the cell by formation of a membrane-bound vesicle.
- endoderm
-
Innermost embryonic germ layer from which most of the digestive system and lower respiratory system derive.
- endomembrane system
-
A group of membranes and organelles in eukaryotic cells that works together to modify, package, and transport lipids and proteins.
- endometrium
-
inner lining of the uterus, part of which builds up during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle and then sheds with menses
- endomysium
-
loose, and well-hydrated connective tissue covering each muscle fiber in a skeletal muscle
- endoneurium
-
innermost layer of connective tissue that surrounds individual axons within a nerve
- endoplasmic reticulum (ER)
-
Cellular organelle that consists of interconnected membrane-bound tubules, which may or may not be associated with ribosomes (rough type or smooth type, respectively).
- endosteum
-
Delicate membranous lining of a bone’s medullary cavity.
- endothelium
-
Tissue that lines vessels of the lymphatic and cardiovascular system, made up of a simple squamous epithelium.
- energy-consuming phase
-
first phase of glycolysis, in which two molecules of ATP are necessary to start the reaction
- energy-yielding phase
-
second phase of glycolysis, during which energy is produced
- enteric nervous system (ENS)
-
neural tissue associated with the digestive system that is responsible for nervous control through autonomic connections
- enteroendocrine cell
-
gastric gland cell that releases hormones
- enterohepatic circulation
-
recycling mechanism that conserves bile salts
- enzymatic degradation
-
a process of regulating neurotransmitter effect by breaking it down soon after release into the synaptic cleft
- enzyme
-
Protein or RNA that catalyzes chemical reactions.
- eosinophil
-
granulocytes specialised for attaching parasites
- eosinophils
-
granulocytes that stain with eosin; they release antihistamines and are especially active against parasitic worms
- Ependymal cell
-
glial cell type in the CNS responsible for producing cerebrospinal fluid
- epiblast
-
upper layer of cells of the embryonic disc that forms from the inner cell mass; gives rise to all three germ layers
- epicardium
-
innermost layer of the serous pericardium and the outermost layer of the heart wall
- epidemic
-
the rapid spreading or temporary prevalence of disease in a population
- epidermis
-
Outermost tissue layer of the skin.
- epididymis
-
(plural = epididymides) coiled tubular structure in which sperm start to mature and are stored until ejaculation
- epidural space
-
space above the dura mater of the meninges
- epiglottis
-
leaf-shaped piece of elastic cartilage that is a portion of the larynx that swings to close the trachea during swallowing
- epimysium
-
outer layer of connective tissue around a skeletal muscle
- epinephrine
-
primary and most potent catecholamine hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla in response to short-term stress; also called adrenaline
- epineurium
-
outermost layer of connective tissue that surrounds an entire nerve
- epiphyseal line
-
Completely ossified remnant of the epiphyseal plate.
- epiphyseal plate
-
(Also, growth plate) sheet of hyaline cartilage in the metaphysis of an immature bone; replaced by bone tissue as the organ grows in length.
- epiphysis
-
Wide section at each end of a long bone; filled with spongy bone and red marrow.
- epiploic appendage
-
small sac of fat-filled visceral peritoneum attached to teniae coli
- epithalamus
-
region of the diecephalon containing the pineal gland
- epithelial membrane
-
Epithelium attached to a layer of connective tissue.
- epithelial tissue
-
Type of tissue that serves primarily as a covering or lining of body parts, protecting the body; it also functions in absorption, transport, and secretion.
- epitope
-
the specific region of an antigen that binds to a T or B cell receptor
- eponychium
-
Nail fold that meets the proximal end of the nail body, also called the cuticle.
- equilibrium
-
sense of balance that includes sensations of position and movement of the head
- erector spinae group
-
large muscle mass of the back; primary extensor of the vertebral column
- erythroblast
-
nucleated cell occurring in red marrow as a stage or stages in the development of the red blood cell, or erythrocyte
- erythrocyte
-
(also, red blood cell) mature myeloid blood cell that is composed mostly of hemoglobin and functions primarily in the transportation of oxygen and carbon dioxide
- erythropoietin (EPO)
-
protein hormone secreted in response to low oxygen levels that triggers the bone marrow to produce red blood cells
- esophageal vein
-
drains the inferior portions of the esophagus and leads to the azygos vein
- esophagus
-
muscular tube that runs from the pharynx to the stomach
- estrogens
-
class of predominantly female sex hormones important for the development and growth of the female reproductive tract, secondary sex characteristics, the female reproductive cycle, and the maintenance of pregnancy
- ethmoid air cell
-
One of several small, air-filled spaces located within the lateral sides of the ethmoid bone, between the orbit and upper nasal cavity.
- ethmoid bone
-
Unpaired bone that forms the roof and upper, lateral walls of the nasal cavity, portions of the floor of the anterior cranial fossa and medial wall of orbit, and the upper portion of the nasal septum.
- etymology
-
The derivation of a word or word history.
- evaporation
-
transfer of heat that occurs when water changes from a liquid to a gas
- exchange reaction
-
Type of chemical reaction in which bonds are both formed and broken, resulting in the transfer of components.
- Excitation-Contraction Coupling
-
sequence of events from motor neuron signaling to a skeletal muscle fiber to contraction of the fiber’s sarcomeres
- excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP)
-
graded potential in the postsynaptic membrane that is the result of depolarization and makes an action potential more likely to occur
- exocrine gland
-
Group of epithelial cells that secrete substances through ducts that open to the skin or to internal body surfaces that lead to the exterior of the body.
- exocytosis
-
Export of a substance out of a cell by formation of a membrane-bound vesicle.
- expiration
-
(also, exhalation) process that causes the air to leave the lungs
- Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV)
-
amount of air that can be forcefully exhaled after a normal tidal exhalation
- expulsion
-
second stage of childbirth, during which the mother bears down with contractions; this stage ends in birth
- extensor
-
muscle that increases the angle at the joint
- extensor carpi ulnaris
-
muscle that extends and adducts the hand
- extensor digiti minimi
-
muscle that extends the little finger
- extensor digitorum
-
muscle that extends the hand at the wrist and the phalanges
- extensor digitorum longus
-
muscle that is lateral to the tibialis anterior
- extensor hallucis longus
-
muscle that is partly deep to the tibialis anterior and extensor digitorum longus
- extensor indicis
-
muscle that inserts onto the tendon of the extensor digitorum of the index finger
- extensor pollicis brevis
-
muscle that inserts onto the base of the proximal phalanx of the thumb
- extensor retinaculum
-
band of connective tissue that extends over the dorsal surface of the hand
- external acoustic meatus
-
Ear canal opening located on the lateral side of the skull.
- external anal sphincter
-
voluntary skeletal muscle sphincter in the anal canal
- external callus
-
Collar of hyaline cartilage and bone that forms around the outside of a fracture.
- external carotid artery
-
arises from the common carotid artery; supplies blood to numerous structures within the face, lower jaw, neck, esophagus, and larynx
- external iliac artery
-
branch of the common iliac artery that leaves the body cavity and becomes a femoral artery; supplies blood to the lower limbs
- external iliac vein
-
formed when the femoral vein passes into the body cavity; drains the legs and leads to the common iliac vein
- external intercostal
-
superficial intercostal muscles that raise the rib cage
- external jugular vein
-
one of a pair of major veins located in the superficial neck region that drains blood from the more superficial portions of the head, scalp, and cranial regions, and leads to the subclavian vein
- external nose
-
region of the nose that is easily visible to others
- external oblique
-
superficial abdominal muscle with fascicles that extend inferiorly and medially
- external occipital protuberance
-
Small bump located at the midline on the posterior skull.
- External respiration
-
gas exchange that occurs in the alveoli
- external root sheath
-
Outer layer of the hair follicle that is an extension of the epidermis, which encloses the hair root.
- external urethral orifice
-
opening of the urethra to the exterior located between the clitoris and the vaginal opening
- exteroceptor
-
sensory receptor that is positioned to interpret stimuli from the external environment, such as photoreceptors in the eye or somatosensory receptors in the skin
- extracellular fluid (ECF)
-
Fluid exterior to cells; includes the interstitial fluid, blood plasma, and fluid found in other reservoirs in the body.
- extraocular muscle
-
one of six muscles originating out of the bones of the orbit and inserting into the surface of the eye which are responsible for moving the eye
- extrinsic eye muscles
-
originate outside the eye and insert onto the outer surface of the white of the eye, and create eyeball movement
- extrinsic ligament
-
ligament located outside of the articular capsule of a synovial joint
- extrinsic muscles of the hand
-
muscles that move the wrists, hands, and fingers and originate on the arm
- extrinsic pathway
-
initial coagulation pathway that begins with tissue damage and results in the activation of the common pathway
- Fab
-
fragment of antigen binding, that part of the antibody that binds antigen
- facet
-
Small, flattened area on a bone for an articulation (joint) with another bone, or for muscle attachment.
- facial bones
-
Fourteen bones that support the facial structures and form the upper and lower jaws and the hard palate.
- facial nerve
-
seventh cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of the facial muscles and for part of the sense of taste, as well as causing saliva production
- facilitated diffusion
-
Diffusion of a substance with the aid of a membrane protein.
- FADH2
-
high-energy molecule needed for glycolysis
- false ribs
-
Vertebrochondral ribs 8–12 whose costal cartilage either attaches indirectly to the sternum via the costal cartilage of the next higher rib or does not attach to the sternum at all.
- Fas ligand (FasL)
-
molecule expressed on cytotoxic T cells and NK cells that binds to the fas molecule on a
target cell and induces it do undergo apoptosis - fascicle
-
bundle of muscle fibers within a skeletal muscle
- fasciculus cuneatus
-
lateral division of the dorsal column system composed of fibers from sensory neurons in the upper body
- fasciculus gracilis
-
medial division of the dorsal column system composed of fibers from sensory neurons in the lower body
- fast glycolytic (FG)
-
muscle fiber that primarily uses anaerobic glycolysis
- Fast oxidative (FO)
-
intermediate muscle fiber that is between slow oxidative and fast glycolytic fibers
- fatty acid oxidation
-
breakdown of fatty acids into smaller chain fatty acids and acetyl CoA
- Fc receptor
-
a membrane bound protein on phagocytes that binds the Fc region of an antibody
- Fc region
-
in an antibody molecule, the site where the two termini of the heavy chains come together;
many cells have receptors for this portion of the antibody, adding functionality to these molecules - feces
-
semisolid waste product of digestion
- femoral artery
-
continuation of the external iliac artery after it passes through the body cavity; divides into several smaller branches, the lateral deep femoral artery, and the genicular artery; becomes the popliteal artery as it passes posterior to the knee
- femoral circumflex vein
-
forms a loop around the femur just inferior to the trochanters; drains blood from the areas around the head and neck of the femur; leads to the femoral vein
- femoral nerve
-
systemic nerve of the anterior leg that arises from the lumbar plexus
- femoral triangle
-
region formed at the junction between the hip and the leg and includes the pectineus, femoral nerve, femoral artery, femoral vein, and deep inguinal lymph nodes
- femoral vein
-
drains the upper leg; receives blood from the great saphenous vein, the deep femoral vein, and the femoral circumflex vein; becomes the external iliac vein when it crosses the body wall
- femur
-
Thigh bone; the single bone of the thigh.
- fenestrations
-
small windows through a cell, allowing rapid filtration based on size; formed in such a way as to allow substances to cross through a cell without mixing with cell contents
- fertilization
-
a sperm combines with an oocyte
- fertilization membrane
-
impenetrable barrier that coats a nascent zygote; part of the slow block to polyspermy
- fetus
-
developing human during the time from the end of the embryonic period (week 9) to birth
- fever
-
abnormally high body temperature, aka pyrexia
- fibrin
-
insoluble, filamentous protein that forms the structure of a blood clot
- fibrinogen
-
plasma protein produced in the liver and involved in blood clotting
- fibrinolysis
-
gradual degradation of a blood clot
- fibroblast
-
Most abundant cell type in connective tissue, secretes protein fibers and matrix into the extracellular space.
- Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23)
-
Protein hormone produced by osteocytes that responds to increased blood levels of vitamin D3 or phosphate and functions to increase phosphorus excretion and decrease calcitriol synthesis
- fibrocartilage
-
Tough form of cartilage, made of thick bundles of collagen fibers embedded in chondroitin sulfate ground substance.
- fibrocyte
-
Less active form of fibroblast.
- fibroelastic membrane
-
specialized membrane that connects the ends of the C-shape cartilage in the trachea; contains smooth muscle fibers
- fibrous joint
-
joint where the articulating areas of the adjacent bones are connected by fibrous connective tissue
- fibrous pericardium
-
dense irregular connective tissue that encloses and protects the heart
- fibrous skeleton
-
anchors the heart valves and works as an electric insulator
- fibrous tunic
-
outer layer of the eye primarily composed of connective tissue known as the sclera and cornea
- fibula
-
Thin, non-weight-bearing bone found on the lateral side of the leg.
- fibular collateral ligament
-
extrinsic ligament of the knee joint that spans from the lateral epicondyle of the femur to the head of the fibula; resists hyperextension and rotation of the extended knee
- fibular notch
-
Wide groove on the lateral side of the distal tibia for articulation with the fibula at the distal tibiofibular joint.
- fibular vein
-
drains the muscles and integument near the fibula and leads to the popliteal vein
- fibularis brevis
-
(also, peroneus brevis) muscle that plantar flexes the foot at the ankle and everts it at the intertarsal joints
- fibularis longus
-
(also, peroneus longus) muscle that plantar flexes the foot at the ankle and everts it at the intertarsal joints
- fight-or-flight response
-
set of responses induced by sympathetic activity that lead to either fleeing a threat or standing up to it, which in the modern world is often associated with anxious feelings
- filtration
-
in the cardiovascular system, the movement of material from a capillary into the interstitial fluid, moving from an area of higher pressure to lower pressure
- filtration slits
-
formed by pedicels of podocytes; substances filter between the pedicels based on size
- filum terminale
-
thin extension of the pia mater from the caudal end of the spinal cord that helps to stabilize the spinal cord in the vertebral canal
- fimbriae
-
fingerlike projections on the distal uterine tubes
- first messenger
-
hormone that binds to a cell membrane hormone receptor and triggers activation of a second messenger system
- first-degree burn
-
Superficial burn that injures only the epidermis.
- fixator
-
synergist that assists an agonist by preventing or reducing movement at another joint, thereby stabilizing the origin of the agonist
- flaccid paralysis
-
paralysis resulting from lower motor neuron damage in which muscles are completely relaxed
- flagellum
-
Appendage on certain cells formed by microtubules and modified for movement.
- flat bone
-
Thin and curved bone; serves as a point of attachment for muscles and protects internal organs.
- flatus
-
gas in the intestine
- flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD)
-
coenzyme used to produce FADH2
- flexion
-
movement that decreases the angle of a joint
- flexor
-
muscle that decreases the angle at the joint
- flexor carpi radialis
-
muscle that flexes and abducts the hand at the wrist
- flexor carpi ulnaris
-
muscle that flexes and adducts the hand at the wrist
- flexor digitorum longus
-
muscle that flexes the four small toes
- flexor digitorum profundus
-
muscle that flexes the phalanges of the fingers and the hand at the wrist
- flexor digitorum superficialis
-
muscle that flexes the hand and the digits
- flexor hallucis longus
-
muscle that flexes the big toe
- flexor pollicis longus
-
muscle that flexes the distal phalanx of the thumb
- flexor retinaculum
-
Strong band of connective tissue at the anterior wrist that spans the top of the U-shaped grouping of the carpal bones to form the roof of the carpal tunnel.
- floating ribs
-
Vertebral ribs 11–12 that do not attach to the sternum or to the costal cartilage of another rib.
- flocculonodular lobe
-
area of the cerebellum that receives vestibular and visual information
- fluid compartment
-
fluid inside all cells of the body constitutes a compartment system that is largely segregated from other systems
- fluid connective tissue
-
Specialized cells that circulate in a watery fluid containing salts, nutrients, and dissolved proteins.
- folia
-
gyrus of the cerebellar cortex
- follicle
-
ovarian structure of one oocyte and surrounding granulosa (and later theca) cells
- follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
-
anterior pituitary hormone that stimulates the production and maturation of sex cells
- folliculogenesis
-
development of ovarian follicles from primordial to tertiary under the stimulation of gonadotropins
- fontanelle
-
Expanded area of fibrous connective tissue that separates the brain case bones of the skull prior to birth and during the first year after birth.
- fontanelles
-
expanded areas of fibrous connective tissue that separate the braincase bones of the skull prior to birth and during the first year after birth
- foot
-
Portion of the lower limb located distal to the ankle joint.
- foramen lacerum
-
Irregular opening in the base of the skull, located inferior to the exit of carotid canal.
- foramen magnum
-
Large opening in the occipital bone of the skull through which the spinal cord emerges and the vertebral arteries enter the cranium.
- foramen ovale
-
opening in the fetal heart that allows blood to flow directly from the right atrium to the left atrium, bypassing the fetal pulmonary circuit
- foramen ovale of the middle cranial fossa
-
Oval-shaped opening in the floor of the middle cranial fossa.
- foramen rotundum
-
Round opening in the floor of the middle cranial fossa, located between the superior orbital fissure and foramen ovale.
- foramen spinosum
-
Small opening in the floor of the middle cranial fossa, located lateral to the foramen ovale.
- forced breathing
-
(also, hyperpnea) mode of breathing that occurs during exercise or by active thought that requires muscle contraction for both inspiration and expiration
- forearm
-
Region of the upper limb located between the elbow and wrist joints; contains the radius and ulna bones.
- forebrain
-
anterior region of the adult brain that develops from the prosencephalon and includes the cerebrum and diencephalon
- formed elements
-
cellular components of blood; that is, erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets
- fossa
-
(Plural = fossae) shallow depression on the surface of a bone.
- fossa ovalis
-
oval-shaped depression in the interatrial septum that marks the former location of the foramen ovale
- fourth ventricle
-
the portion of the ventricular system that is in the region of the brain stem and opens into the subarachnoid space through the median and lateral apertures
- fourth-degree burn
-
Burn in which full thickness of the skin and underlying muscle and bone is damaged.
- fovea
-
exact center of the retina at which visual stimuli are focused for maximal acuity, where the retina is thinnest, at which there is nothing but photoreceptors
- fovea capitis
-
Minor indentation on the head of the femur that serves as the site of attachment for the ligament to the head of the femur.
- fracture
-
Broken bone.
- fracture hematoma
-
Blood clot that forms at the site of a broken bone.
- Frank-Starling Law
-
relationship between ventricular stretch and contraction in which the force of heart contraction is directly proportional to the initial length of the muscle fiber
- free nerve ending
-
configuration of a sensory receptor neuron with dendrites in the connective tissue of the organ, such as in the dermis of the skin, that are most often sensitive to chemical, thermal, and mechanical stimuli
- free radical
-
an atom, molecule, or ion that has at least one unpaired valence electron. With some exceptions, these unpaired electrons make radicals highly chemically reactive.
- frontal bone
-
Unpaired bone that forms forehead, roof of orbit, and floor of anterior cranial fossa.
- frontal lobe
-
region of the cerebral cortex directly beneath the frontal bone of the cranium
- frontal plane
-
Two-dimensional, vertical plane that divides the body or organ into anterior and posterior portions.
- frontal sinus
-
Air-filled space within the frontal bone; most anterior of the paranasal sinuses.
- frontalis
-
front part of the occipitofrontalis muscle
- functional group
-
Group of atoms linked by strong covalent bonds that tends to behave as a distinct unit in chemical reactions with other atoms.
- Functional Residual Capacity (FRC)
-
sum of ERV and RV, which is the amount of air that remains in the lungs after a tidal expiration
- fundus
-
dome-shaped region of the stomach above and to the left of the cardia
- Fungi
-
eukaryotic organisms distinguished from animals and plants by chitin-containing cell walls among other features
- fusiform
-
muscle that has fascicles that are spindle-shaped to create large bellies
- G cell
-
gastrin-secreting enteroendocrine cell
- G protein
-
protein associated with a cell membrane hormone receptor that initiates the next step in a second messenger system upon activation by hormone–receptor binding
- G-protein coupled receptors
-
receptors that are associated with cytoplasmic G-protein, a GTP hydrolase, that physically moves from the receptor to a effector protein resulting in the production of cAMP or cGMP (aka second messengers)
- G0 phase
-
Phase of the cell cycle, usually entered from the G1 phase; characterized by long or permanent periods where the cell does not move forward into the DNA synthesis phase.
- G1 phase
-
First phase of the cell cycle, after a new cell is born.
- G2 phase
-
Third phase of the cell cycle, after the DNA synthesis phase.
- gallbladder
-
accessory digestive organ that stores and concentrates bile
- gamete
-
haploid reproductive cell that contributes genetic material to form an offspring
- gamma-amino-butyric-acid (GABA)
-
a common inhibitory amino acid neurotransmitter of the brain among other roles
- ganglion
-
(pl. ganglia) localized collection of neuron cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system
gated property of a channel that determines how it opens under specific conditions, such as voltage change or physical deformation - ganglionic neuron
-
specifically refers to the cell body of a neuron in the autonomic system that is located in a ganglion
- gap junction
-
Allows cytoplasmic communications to occur between cells.
- gap junctions
-
they allow the passage of ions between the cells to help to synchronize the heart contraction
- gastric emptying
-
process by which mixing waves gradually cause the release of chyme into the duodenum
- gastric gland
-
gland in the stomach mucosal epithelium that produces gastric juice
- gastric phase
-
phase of gastric secretion that begins when food enters the stomach
- gastric pit
-
narrow channel formed by the epithelial lining of the stomach mucosa
- gastrin
-
peptide hormone secreted in response to stomach distention that stimulates the release of hydrochloric acid
- gastrocnemius
-
most superficial muscle of the calf
- gastrocolic reflex
-
propulsive movement in the colon activated by the presence of food in the stomach
- gastrulation
-
process of cell migration and differentiation into three primary germ layers following cleavage and implantation
- gene
-
Functional length of DNA that provides the genetic information necessary to build a protein.
- gene expression
-
Active interpretation of the information coded in a gene to produce a functional gene product.
- general adaptation syndrome (GAS)
-
the human body’s three-stage response pattern to short- and long-term stress
- general sense
-
any sensory system that is distributed throughout the body and incorporated into organs of multiple other systems, such as the walls of the digestive organs or the skin
- generator potential
-
graded potential in dendrites of a unipolar neuron which generates an action
potential in the initial segment of that cell’s axon - genicular artery
-
branch of the femoral artery; supplies blood to the region of the knee
- genioglossus
-
muscle that originates on the mandible and allows the tongue to move downward and forward
- geniohyoid
-
muscle that depresses the mandible, and raises and pulls the hyoid bone anteriorly
- genome
-
Entire complement of an organism’s DNA; found within virtually every cell.
- genotype
-
complete genetic makeup of an individual
- germinal center
-
clusters of rapidly proliferating B cells found in secondary lymphoid tissues
- gestation
-
in human development, the period required for embryonic and fetal development in utero; pregnancy
- gigantism
-
disorder in children caused when abnormally high levels of GH prompt excessive growth
- gingiva
-
gum
- glabella
-
Slight depression of frontal bone, located at the midline between the eyebrows.
- glans penis
-
bulbous end of the penis that contains a large number of nerve endings
- glassy membrane
-
Layer of connective tissue that surrounds the base of the hair follicle, connecting it to the dermis.
- glenohumeral joint
-
Shoulder joint; formed by the articulation between the glenoid cavity of the scapula and the head of the humerus.
- glenoid cavity
-
(Also, glenoid fossa) shallow depression located on the lateral scapula, between the superior and lateral borders.
- glenoid labrum
-
lip of fibrocartilage located around the outside margin of the glenoid cavity of the scapula
- Glial cell
-
(aka neuroglia) one of the various types of neural cells responsible for maintenance of nervous tissue including the support of neurons
- globin
-
heme-containing globular protein that is a constituent of hemoglobin
- globulins
-
heterogeneous group of plasma proteins that includes transport proteins, clotting factors, immune proteins, and others
- globus pallidus
-
nuclei deep in the cerebrum that are part of the basal nuclei and can be divided into the internal and external segments
- glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
-
rate of renal filtration
- glomerulus
-
tuft of capillaries surrounded by Bowman’s capsule; filters the blood based on size
- glossopharyngeal nerve
-
ninth cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of muscles in the tongue and throat and for part of the sense of taste, as well as causing saliva production
- glottis
-
opening between the vocal folds through which air passes when producing speech
- glucagon
-
pancreatic hormone that stimulates the catabolism of glycogen to glucose, thereby increasing blood glucose levels
- glucocorticoids
-
hormones produced by the zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex that influence glucose metabolism
- glucokinase
-
cellular enzyme, found in the liver, which converts glucose into glucose-6-phosphate upon uptake into the cell
- Gluconeogenesis
-
Conversion of organic nutrients into newly synthesized glucose
- glucose-6-phosphate
-
phosphorylated glucose produced in the first step of glycolysis
- glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP)
-
(formerly gastric inhibitory peptide) hormone secreted by the small intestine that stimulates increased insulin secretion
- glutamate
-
a common excitatory amino acid neurotransmitter of the brain among other roles
- gluteal tuberosity
-
Roughened area on the posterior side of the proximal femur, extending inferiorly from the base of the greater trochanter.
- gluteus maximus
-
largest of the gluteus muscles that extends the femur
- gluteus medius
-
muscle deep to the gluteus maximus that abducts the femur at the hip
- glycine
-
a common inhibitory amino acid neurotransmitter of the spinal cord among other roles
- glycogen
-
form that glucose assumes when it is stored
- Glycogenolysis
-
Process of catabolizing and converting stored glycogen into glucose
- glycolysis
-
series of metabolic reactions that breaks down glucose into pyruvate and produces ATP
- glycoprotein
-
Protein that has one or more carbohydrates attached.
- glycosuria
-
presence of glucose in the urine; caused by high blood glucose levels that exceed the ability of the kidneys to reabsorb the glucose; usually the result of untreated or poorly controlled diabetes mellitus
- goblet cell
-
Unicellular gland found in columnar epithelium that secretes mucous.
- Golgi apparatus
-
Cellular organelle formed by a series of flattened, membrane-bound sacs that functions in protein modification, tagging, packaging, and transport.
- gomphosis
-
type of fibrous joint in which the root of a tooth is anchored into its bony jaw socket by strong periodontal ligaments
- gonad
-
Reproductive organ (ovary in females, testis in males) that produces sex cells (ovum in females, sperm in males)
- gonadal artery
-
branch of the abdominal aorta; supplies blood to the gonads or reproductive organs; also described as ovarian arteries or testicular arteries, depending upon the sex of the individual
- gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)
-
hormone produced and secreted by the hypothalamus that stimulates production of gonadotropins
- gonadotropins
-
hormones that regulate the function of the gonads, namely follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)
- gonads
-
reproductive organs (testes in men and ovaries in women) that produce gametes and reproductive hormones
- gracilis
-
muscle that adducts the thigh and flexes the leg at the knee
- graded potential
-
change in the membrane potential that varies in size, depending on the size of the stimulus that elicits it
- granular leukocytes
-
leukocytes with abundant granules in their cytoplasm; specifically, neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils
- granulocytes
-
WBCs that have granules; neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils
- granulosa cells
-
supportive cells in the ovarian follicle that produce estrogen
- granzyme
-
apoptosis-inducing substance contained in granules of NK cells and cytotoxic T cells
- Grave’s disease
-
an autoimmune disease causing hyperthyroidism resulting in tachycardia, heat sensitivity, weight loss, eye bulging among other symptoms
- Graves’ disease
-
Condition where an autoimmune reaction produces antibodies that act like TSH and cause overproduction of thyroid hormones leading to hyperthyroidism
- gray matter
-
regions of the nervous system containing cell bodies of neurons with few or no myelinated axons; actually may be more pink or tan in color, but called gray in contrast to white matter
- gray rami communicantes
-
(singular = ramus communicans) unmyelinated structures that provide a short connection from a sympathetic chain ganglion to the spinal nerve that contains the postganglionic sympathetic fiber
- great cardiac vein
-
vessel that follows the interventricular sulcus on the anterior surface of the heart and flows along the coronary sulcus into the coronary sinus on the posterior surface; parallels the anterior interventricular artery and drains the areas supplied by this vessel
- great cerebral vein
-
receives most of the smaller vessels from the inferior cerebral veins and leads to the straight sinus
- great saphenous vein
-
prominent surface vessel located on the medial surface of the leg and thigh; drains the superficial portions of these areas and leads to the femoral vein
- greater pelvis
-
(Also, greater pelvic cavity or false pelvis) broad space above the pelvic brim defined laterally by the fan-like portion of the upper ilium.
- greater sciatic foramen
-
Pelvic opening formed by the greater sciatic notch of the hip bone, the sacrum, and the sacrospinous ligament.
- greater sciatic notch
-
Large, U-shaped indentation located on the posterior margin of the ilium, superior to the ischial spine.
- greater trochanter
-
Large, bony expansion of the femur that projects superiorly from the base of the femoral neck.
- greater tubercle
-
Enlarged prominence located on the lateral side of the proximal humerus.
- greater vestibular glands
-
(also, Bartholin’s glands) glands that produce a thick mucus that maintains moisture in the vulva area
- greater wings of sphenoid bone
-
Lateral projections of the sphenoid bone that form the anterior wall of the middle cranial fossa and an area of the lateral skull.
- gross anatomy
-
Study of the larger structures of the body, typically with the unaided eye; also referred to as macroscopic anatomy.
- ground substance
-
Fluid or semi-fluid portion of the matrix.
- growth
-
Process of increasing in size.
- growth hormone (GH)
-
anterior pituitary hormone that promotes tissue building and influences nutrient metabolism (also called somatotropin)
- growth hormone deficiency
-
disorder in children caused when abnormally low levels of GH result in delayed growth and short stature (also called pituitary dwarfism)
- growth hormone-inhibiting hormone
-
Inhibitory hormone that inhibits the release of growth hormone and other hormones, including thyroid-stimulating hormone and prolactin (also called somatostatin)
- growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH)
-
Hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that triggers the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome
-
a pathologic condition caused by demyelination of neurons in the PNS
- gustation
-
sense of taste
- gustatory receptor cells
-
sensory cells in the taste bud that transduce the chemical stimuli of gustation
- gyrus
-
localized collection of neuron cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system
- hair
-
Keratinous filament growing out of the epidermis.
- hair bulb
-
Structure at the base of the hair root that surrounds the dermal papilla.
- hair cells
-
mechanoreceptor cells found in the inner ear that transduce stimuli for the senses of hearing and balance
- hair follicle
-
Cavity or sac from which hair originates.
- hair matrix
-
Layer of basal cells from which a strand of hair grows.
- hair papilla
-
Mass of connective tissue, blood capillaries, and nerve endings at the base of the hair follicle.
- hair root
-
Part of hair that is below the epidermis anchored to the follicle.
- hair root plexus
-
nerve endings that are wrapped around hair follicles to detect hair movement
- hair shaft
-
Part of hair that is above the epidermis but is not anchored to the follicle.
- hallux
-
Big toe; digit 1 of the foot.
- hamate
-
From the lateral side, the fourth of the four distal carpal bones; articulates with the lunate and triquetrum proximally, the fourth and fifth metacarpals distally, and the capitate laterally.
- hand
-
Region of the upper limb distal to the wrist joint.
- Hansen’s disease (leprosy)
-
a disease caused by a Mycobacterium leprae infection primarily affecting the peripheral nervous system, skin, and nasal mucosa
- haploid
-
having a single set of unpaired chromosomes
- hard palate
-
Bony structure that forms the roof of the mouth and floor of the nasal cavity, formed by the palatine process of the maxillary bones and the horizontal plate of the palatine bones.
- haustral contraction
-
slow segmentation in the large intestine
- haustrum
-
small pouch in the colon created by tonic contractions of teniae coli
- head of the femur
-
Rounded, proximal end of the femur that articulates with the acetabulum of the hip bone to form the hip joint.
- head of the fibula
-
Small, knob-like, proximal end of the fibula; articulates with the inferior aspect of the lateral condyle of the tibia.
- head of the humerus
-
Smooth, rounded region on the medial side of the proximal humerus; articulates with the glenoid fossa of the scapula to form the glenohumeral (shoulder) joint.
- head of the metatarsal bone
-
Expanded, distal end of each metatarsal bone.
- head of the radius
-
Disc-shaped structure that forms the proximal end of the radius; articulates with the capitulum of the humerus as part of the elbow joint, and with the radial notch of the ulna as part of the proximal radioulnar joint.
- head of the rib
-
Posterior end of a rib that articulates with the bodies of thoracic vertebrae.
- head of the ulna
-
Small, rounded distal end of the ulna; articulates with the ulnar notch of the distal radius, forming the distal radioulnar joint.
- heart block
-
interruption in the normal conduction pathway
- heart murmur
-
sound coming from the heart that is caused by the turbulent flow of blood
- heart rate (HR)
-
number of times the heart contracts (beats) per minute
- heart sounds
-
sounds heard via auscultation with a stethoscope of the closing of the atrioventricular valves (“lub”) and semilunar valves (“dub”)
- helper T cells (Th)
-
T cells that secrete cytokines to enhance other immune responses, involved in
activation of both B and Tc cell lymphocytes - hematocrit
-
(also, packed cell volume) volume percentage of erythrocytes in a sample of centrifuged blood
- hematopoiesis
-
Production of blood cells, which occurs in the red marrow of the bones.
- hematopoietic stem cell
-
type of pluripotent stem cell that gives rise to the formed elements of blood (hemocytoblast)
- hematuria
-
presence of erythrocytes in urine
- heme
-
red, iron-containing pigment to which oxygen binds in hemoglobin
- hemiazygos vein
-
smaller vein complementary to the azygos vein; drains the esophageal veins from the esophagus and the left intercostal veins, and leads to the brachiocephalic vein via the superior intercostal vein
- hemiplegia
-
paralysis of one side of the body
- hemocytoblast
-
hematopoietic stem cell that gives rise to the formed elements of blood
- hemoglobin
-
oxygen-carrying compound in erythrocytes
- hemolysis
-
destruction (lysis) of erythrocytes and the release of their hemoglobin into circulation
- hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN)
-
(also, erythroblastosis fetalis) disorder causing agglutination and hemolysis in an Rh+ fetus or newborn of an Rh− mother
- hemophilia
-
genetic disorder characterized by inadequate synthesis of clotting factors
- hemopoiesis
-
production of the formed elements of blood
- hemopoietic growth factors
-
chemical signals including erythropoietin, thrombopoietin, colony-stimulating factors, and interleukins that regulate the differentiation and proliferation of particular blood progenitor cells
- hemorrhage
-
excessive bleeding
- hemostasis
-
physiological process by which bleeding ceases
- Henry’s Law
-
statement of the principle that the concentration of gas in a liquid is directly proportional to the solubility and partial pressure of that gas
- heparin
-
short-acting anticoagulant stored in mast cells and released when tissues are injured, opposes prothrombin
- hepatic artery
-
artery that supplies oxygenated blood to the liver
- hepatic artery proper
-
branch of the common hepatic artery; supplies systemic blood to the liver
- hepatic lobule
-
hexagonal-shaped structure composed of hepatocytes that radiate outward from a central vein
- hepatic portal system
-
specialized circulatory pathway that carries blood from digestive organs to the liver for processing before being sent to the systemic circulation
- hepatic portal vein
-
vein that supplies deoxygenated nutrient-rich blood to the liver
- hepatic sinusoid
-
blood capillaries between rows of hepatocytes that receive blood from the hepatic portal vein and the branches of the hepatic artery
- hepatic vein
-
drains systemic blood from the liver and flows into the inferior vena cava
- hepatocytes
-
major functional cells of the liver
- hepatopancreatic ampulla
-
(also, ampulla of Vater) bulb-like point in the wall of the duodenum where the bile duct and main pancreatic duct unite
- hepatopancreatic sphincter
-
(also, sphincter of Oddi) sphincter regulating the flow of bile and pancreatic juice into the duodenum
- hepcidin
-
Hormone secreted by the liver that regulates iron levels in blood plasma by blocking the release of iron from cells into the plasma and reducing dietary absorption of iron
- heterozygous
-
having two different alleles for a given gene
- hexokinase
-
cellular enzyme, found in most tissues, that converts glucose into glucose-6-phosphate upon uptake into the cell
- high endothelial venules (HEV)
-
vessels containing unique endothelial cells specialized to allow migration of
lymphocytes from the blood to the lymph node - hilum
-
concave structure on the mediastinal surface of the lungs where blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, nerves, and a bronchus enter the lung
- hindbrain
-
posterior region of the adult brain that develops from the rhombencephalon and includes the pons, medulla oblongata, and cerebellum
- hip bone
-
Coxal bone; single bone that forms the pelvic girdle; consists of three areas, the ilium, ischium, and pubis.
- hip joint
-
Joint located at the proximal end of the lower limb; formed by the articulation between the acetabulum of the hip bone and the head of the femur.
- hippocampus
-
gray matter deep in the temporal lobe that is very important for long-term memory formation
- histamine
-
Chemical compound released by mast cells in response to injury that causes vasodilation and endothelium permeability.
- histology
-
Microscopic study of tissue architecture, organization, and function.
- hole
-
Opening or depression in a bone.
- holocrine secretion
-
Release of a substance caused by the rupture of a gland cell, which becomes part of the secretion.
- homeostasis
-
Steady state of body systems that living organisms maintain.
- homologous
-
Describes two copies of the same chromosome (not identical), one inherited from each parent.
- homozygous
-
having two identical alleles for a given gene
- hook of the hamate bone
-
Bony extension located on the anterior side of the hamate carpal bone.
- horizontal plate
-
Medial extension from the palatine bone that forms the posterior quarter of the hard palate.
- hormone
-
secretion of an endocrine organ that travels via the bloodstream or lymphatics to induce a response in target cells or tissues in another part of the body
- hormone receptor
-
protein within a cell or on the cell membrane that binds a hormone, initiating the target cell response
- hormone-receptor complex
-
Structure formed when a hormone binds to its hormone receptor
- human chorionic gonadotropin
-
hormone produced by the placenta that promotes progesterone synthesis and reduces the mother’s immune function to protect the fetus from immune rejection
- human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
-
is a virus capable of causing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a serious and lethal disease characterized by a greatly weakened immune system
- human placental lactogen (hPL)
-
hormone produced by the placenta that prepares mammary glands for lactation
- humerus
-
Single bone of the upper arm.
- humoral
-
related to body fluids
- humoral immunity
-
adaptive immunity involving Th2 stimulating B cells to secrete antibodies
- hyaline cartilage
-
Most common type of cartilage, smooth and made of short collagen fibers embedded in a chondroitin sulfate ground substance.
- Hydrocephalus
-
blockage in the CSF circulation
- hydrochloric acid (HCL)
-
digestive acid secreted by parietal cells in the stomach
- hydrogen (H)
-
the chemical element with the symbol H and atomic number 1. Hydrogen is the lightest element. At standard conditions hydrogen is a gas (H₂). It is colorless, odorless, tasteless, non-toxic, and highly combustible.
- hydrogen bond
-
Dipole-dipole bond in which a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an electronegative atom is weakly attracted to a second electronegative atom.
- hydrogen bonds
-
dipole-dipole bond in which a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an electronegative atom is weakly attracted to a second electronegative atom
- hydrophilic
-
Describes a substance or structure attracted to water.
- hydrophobic
-
Describes a substance or structure repelled by water.
- hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA (HMG CoA)
-
molecule created in the first step of the creation of ketone bodies from acetyl CoA
- hymen
-
membrane that covers part of the opening of the vagina
- hyoglossus
-
muscle that originates on the hyoid bone to move the tongue downward and flatten it
- hyoid bone
-
Small, U-shaped bone located in upper neck that does not contact any other bone.
- hypercalcemia
-
Condition characterized by abnormally high levels of calcium.
- hypercapnia
-
abnormally elevated blood levels of CO2
- hyperchloremia
-
higher-than-normal blood chloride levels
- hyperemia
-
increased blood flow near the site of inflammation
- hyperglycemia
-
abnormally high blood glucose levels
- hyperkalemia
-
higher-than-normal blood potassium levels
- hypermagnesemia
-
higher-than-normal blood magnesium levels
- hypernatremia
-
abnormal increase in blood sodium levels
- hyperparathyroidism
-
disorder caused by overproduction of PTH that results in abnormally elevated blood calcium
- hyperphosphatemia
-
abnormally increased blood phosphate levels
- hyperpnea
-
increased rate and depth of ventilation due to an increase in oxygen demand that does not significantly alter blood oxygen or carbon dioxide levels
- hyperpolarize
-
state of the cell membrane when it polarizes more than the RMP
- hyperreflexia
-
exaggeration of reflexes often due to upper motor neuron damage
- hypersensitivity
-
an excessive, potentially harmful overreaction to an antigen
- hypersomatic mutation
-
the process of the antigen-binding regions of the B cell receptor (and antibody) to be altered during B cell clonal expansion
- hypertension
-
chronic and persistent blood pressure measurements of 140/90 mm Hg or above
- Hyperthyroidism
-
clinically abnormal, elevated level of thyroid hormone in the blood; characterized by an increased metabolic rate, excess body heat, sweating, diarrhea, weight loss, and increased heart rate
- hypertonia
-
abnormally high muscle tone
- hypertonic
-
Describes a solution concentration that is higher than a reference concentration.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
-
pathological enlargement of the heart, generally for no known reason
- hypertrophy
-
addition of structural proteins to muscle fibers
- hyperventilation
-
increased ventilation rate that leads to abnormally low blood carbon dioxide levels and high (alkaline) blood pH
- hypervolemia
-
abnormally high levels of fluid and blood within the body
- hypoblast
-
lower layer of cells of the embryonic disc that extend into the blastocoel to form the yolk sac
- hypocalcemia
-
Condition characterized by abnormally low levels of calcium.
- hypocapnia
-
abnormally low blood levels of CO2
- hypochloremia
-
lower-than-normal blood chloride levels
- hypodermis
-
Connective tissue connecting the integument to the underlying bone and muscle.
- hypoglossal canal
-
Paired openings that pass anteriorly from the anterior-lateral margins of the foramen magnum deep to the occipital condyles.
- hypoglossal nerve
-
twelfth cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of muscles of the tongue
- hypokalemia
-
abnormally decreased blood levels of potassium
- hypomagnesemia
-
lower-than-normal blood magnesium levels
- hyponatremia
-
lower-than-normal levels of sodium in the blood
- hyponychium
-
Thickened layer of stratum corneum that lies below the free edge of the nail.
- hypoparathyroidism
-
disorder caused by underproduction of PTH that results in abnormally low blood calcium
- hypophosphatemia
-
abnormally low blood phosphate levels
- hypophyseal (pituitary) fossa
-
Shallow depression on top of the sella turcica that houses the pituitary (hypophyseal) gland.
- hypophyseal portal system
-
network of blood vessels that enables hypothalamic hormones to travel into the anterior lobe of the pituitary without entering the systemic circulation
- Hyporeflexia
-
decreased reflexes often due to lower motor neuron damage
- hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis
-
endocrine control system involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal cortex, the hormones secreted by those glands, and regulation of adrenal cortex steroid production by those hormones
- hypothalamus
-
major region of the diencephalon that is responsible for coordinating autonomic and endocrine control of homeostasis
- hypothenar
-
group of muscles on the medial aspect of the palm
- Hypothyroidism
-
clinically abnormal, low level of thyroid hormone in the blood; characterized by low metabolic rate, weight gain, cold extremities, constipation, and reduced mental activity
- hypotonia
-
abnormally low muscle tone caused by the absence of low-level contractions
- hypotonic
-
Describes a solution concentration that is lower than a reference concentration.
- hypovolemia
-
abnormally low levels of fluid and blood within the body
- hypovolemic shock
-
type of circulatory shock caused by excessive loss of blood volume due to hemorrhage or possibly dehydration
- hypoxia
-
lack of oxygen supply to the tissues
- hypoxic
-
Consisting of too little oxygen
- IgA
-
antibody whose dimer is secreted by exocrine glands, is especially effective against digestive and respiratory pathogens, and can pass immunity to an infant through breastfeeding
- IgD
-
class of antibody whose only known function is as a receptor on naive B cells; important in B cell activation
- IgE
-
antibody that binds to mast cells and causes antigen-specific degranulation during an allergic response
- IgG
-
main blood antibody of late primary and early secondary responses; passed from carrier to unborn child via placenta
- IgM
-
antibody whose monomer is a surface receptor of naive B cells; the pentamer is the first antibody made blood plasma during primary responses
- IL-4
-
interleukin-4, promotes Th2 and plasma cell development among other functions
- ileocecal sphincter
-
sphincter located where the small intestine joins with the large intestine
- ileum
-
end of the small intestine between the jejunum and the large intestine
- iliac crest
-
Curved, superior margin of the ilium.
- iliac fossa
-
Shallow depression found on the anterior and medial surfaces of the upper ilium.
- iliacus
-
muscle that, along with the psoas major, makes up the iliopsoas
- iliococcygeus
-
muscle that makes up the levator ani along with the pubococcygeus
- Iliocostalis group
-
laterally placed muscles of the erector spinae
- iliotibial tract
-
muscle that inserts onto the tibia; made up of the gluteus maximus and connective tissues of the tensor fasciae latae
- ilium
-
Superior portion of the hip bone.
- immediate hypersensitivity (type I)
-
IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation caused by crosslinking of surface IgE by antigen
immune system series of barriers, cells, and soluble mediators that combine to response to infections of the body with pathogenic organisms - immunogenicity
-
the degree by which an antigen induces an immune response
- immunoglobulin
-
protein antibody; occurs as one of five main classes
- immunoglobulins
-
(also, antibodies or gamma globulins) antigen-specific proteins produced by specialized B lymphocytes that protect the body by binding to foreign objects such as bacteria and viruses
- immunological memory
-
ability of the adaptive immune response to mount a stronger and faster immune response upon re-exposure to a pathogen
- implantation
-
process by which a blastocyst embeds itself in the uterine endometrium
- incisor
-
midline, chisel-shaped tooth used for cutting into food
- incomplete dominance
-
pattern of inheritance in which a heterozygous genotype expresses a phenotype intermediate between dominant and recessive phenotypes
- incontinence
-
loss of ability to control micturition
- incus
-
(also, anvil) ossicle of the middle ear that connects the malleus to the stapes
- indirect pathways
-
several complex circuits that innervate lower motor neurons and are involved in subconscious control over movement
- infectious
-
a disease capable of transmitting from person to person
- inferior
-
Describes a position below or lower than another part of the body proper; near or toward the tail (in humans, the coccyx, or lowest part of the spinal column); also referred to as caudal.
- inferior angle of the scapula
-
Inferior corner of the scapula located where the medial and lateral borders meet.
- inferior articular process
-
Bony process that extends downward from the vertebral arch of a vertebra that articulates with the superior articular process of the next lower vertebra.
- inferior colliculus
-
last structure in the auditory brainstem pathway that projects to the thalamus and superior colliculus
- inferior mesenteric artery
-
branch of the abdominal aorta; supplies blood to the distal segment of the large intestine and rectum
- inferior nasal concha
-
One of the paired bones that project from the lateral walls of the nasal cavity to form the largest and most inferior of the nasal conchae.
- inferior oblique
-
extraocular muscle responsible for lateral rotation of the eye
- inferior pubic ramus
-
Narrow segment of bone that passes inferiorly and laterally from the pubic body; joins with the ischial ramus to form the ischiopubic ramus.
- inferior rectus
-
extraocular muscle responsible for looking down
- inferior vena cava
-
large systemic vein that returns blood to the heart from the inferior portion of the body
- inflammation
-
Response of tissue to injury.
- infraglenoid tubercle
-
Small bump or roughened area located on the lateral border of the scapula, near the inferior margin of the glenoid cavity.
- infrahyoid muscles
-
anterior neck muscles that are attached to, and inferior to the hyoid bone
- infraorbital foramen
-
Opening located on anterior skull, below the orbit.
- infraspinatus
-
muscle that laterally rotates the arm
- infraspinous fossa
-
Broad depression located on the posterior scapula, inferior to the spine.
- infundibulum
-
hollow stalk which connects the hypothalamus and the posterior pituitary gland
- ingestion
-
taking food into the GI tract through the mouth
- inguinal canal
-
opening in abdominal wall that connects the testes to the abdominal cavity
- inhibin
-
hormone secreted by the male and female gonads that inhibits FSH production by the anterior pituitary
- inhibiting hormone
-
hormone that prevents or decrease the release of other hormones
- inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP)
-
hyperpolarizing graded potentials in the postsynaptic membrane
- Innate immunity
-
rapid but relatively nonspecific immune responses
- inner cell mass
-
cluster of cells within the blastocyst that is fated to become the embryo
- inner ear
-
structure within the temporal bone that contains the sensory apparati of hearing and balance
- innermost intercostal
-
the deepest intercostal muscles that draw the ribs together
- inorganic compound
-
Substance that does not contain both carbon and hydrogen.
- inotropic agents
-
factors that change stroke volume by affecting contractility
- insertion
-
end of a skeletal muscle that is attached to the structure (usually a bone) that is moved when the muscle contracts
- inspiration
-
(also, inhalation) process that causes air to enter the lungs
- Inspiratory Capacity (IC)
-
sum of the TV and IRV, which is the amount of air that can maximally be inhaled past a tidal expiration
- Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV)
-
amount of air that enters the lungs due to deep inhalation past the tidal volume
- insula
-
brain region that process taste, smell, sound, visceral and body surface sensations, and emotions such as empathy
- insulin
-
pancreatic hormone that enhances the cellular uptake and utilization of glucose, thereby decreasing blood glucose levels
- Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)
-
protein that enhances cellular proliferation, inhibits apoptosis, and stimulates the cellular uptake of amino acids for protein synthesis (also, somatomedin)
- integral protein
-
membrane-associated protein that spans the entire width of the lipid bilayer
- integration
-
nervous system function that combines sensory perceptions and higher cognitive functions (memories, learning, emotion, etc.) to produce a response
- Integration (reflex) center
-
gray matter of the spinal cord or brain that integrates incoming sensory and other information in the control of a reflex
- integumentary system
-
Skin and its accessory structures.
- interatrial septum
-
cardiac septum located between the two atria; contains the fossa ovalis after birth
- intercalated cell
-
specialized cell of the collecting ducts that secrete or absorb acid or bicarbonate; important in acid–base balance
- Intercalated disc
-
part of the sarcolemma that connects cardiac tissue, and contains gap junctions and desmosomes
- intercondylar eminence
-
Irregular elevation on the superior end of the tibia, between the articulating surfaces of the medial and lateral condyles.
- intercondylar fossa
-
Deep depression on the posterior side of the distal femur that separates the medial and lateral condyles.
- intercostal muscles
-
muscles that span the spaces between the ribs
- intercostal vein
-
drains the muscles of the thoracic wall and leads to the azygos vein
- Interferons (INFs)
-
early induced proteins made in virally infected cells that cause nearby cells to make antiviral proteins
- Interleukins
-
signaling molecules that may function in hemopoiesis, inflammation, and specific immune responses
- interlobar arteries
-
division of the segmental arteries that pass through the renal columns to reach the cortex
- intermediate
-
group of midpalmar muscles
- intermediate cuneiform
-
Middle of the three cuneiform tarsal bones; articulates posteriorly with the navicular bone, medially with the medial cuneiform bone, laterally with the lateral cuneiform bone, and anteriorly with the second metatarsal bone.
- intermediate filament
-
Type of cytoskeletal filament made of keratin, characterized by an intermediate thickness, and playing a role in resisting cellular tension.
- internal acoustic meatus
-
Opening into petrous ridge, located on the lateral wall of the posterior cranial fossa.
- internal anal sphincter
-
involuntary smooth muscle sphincter in the anal canal
- internal callus
-
Fibrocartilaginous matrix, in the endosteal region, between the two ends of a broken bone.
- internal capsule
-
two-way tract for the transmission of information to and from the cerebral cortex
- internal carotid artery
-
branch from the common carotid artery that enters the cranium and supplies blood to the brain
- internal iliac artery
-
branch from the common iliac arteries; supplies blood to the urinary bladder, walls of the pelvis, external genitalia, and the medial portion of the femoral region; in females, also provide blood to the uterus and vagina
- internal iliac vein
-
drains the pelvic organs and integument; formed from several smaller veins in the region; leads to the common iliac vein
- internal intercostal
-
muscles the intermediate intercostal muscles that draw the ribs together
- internal jugular vein
-
one of a pair of major veins located in the neck region that passes through the jugular foramen and canal, flows parallel to the common carotid artery that is more or less its counterpart; primarily drains blood from the brain, receives the superficial facial vein, and empties into the subclavian vein
- internal oblique
-
flat, intermediate abdominal muscle with fascicles that run perpendicular to those of the external oblique
- Internal respiration
-
gas exchange that occurs at the level of body tissues
- internal root sheath
-
Innermost layer of keratinocytes in the hair follicle that surround the hair root up to the hair shaft.
- internal thoracic artery
-
(also, mammary artery) arises from the subclavian artery; supplies blood to the thymus, pericardium of the heart, and the anterior chest wall
- Internal thoracic vein
-
(also, internal mammary vein) drains the anterior surface of the chest wall and leads to the brachiocephalic vein
- internal urinary sphincter
-
smooth muscle at the juncture of the bladder and urethra; relaxes as the bladder fills to allow urine into the urethra
- internodal pathways
-
specialized conductile cells within the atria that transmit the impulse from the SA node throughout the myocardial cells of the atrium and to the AV node
- interoceptor
-
sensory receptor that is positioned to interpret stimuli from internal organs, such as stretch receptors in the wall of blood vessels
- interosseous border of the fibula
-
Small ridge running down the medial side of the fibular shaft; for attachment of the interosseous membrane between the fibula and tibia.
- interosseous border of the radius
-
Narrow ridge located on the medial side of the radial shaft; for attachment of the interosseous membrane between the ulna and radius bones.
- interosseous border of the tibia
-
Small ridge running down the lateral side of the tibial shaft; for attachment of the interosseous membrane between the tibia and fibula.
- interosseous border of the ulna
-
Narrow ridge located on the lateral side of the ulnar shaft; for attachment of the interosseous membrane between the ulna and radius.
- interosseous membrane
-
wide sheet of fibrous connective tissue that fills the gap between two parallel bones, forming a syndesmosis; found between the radius and ulna of the forearm and between the tibia and fibula of the leg
- interosseous membrane of the forearm
-
Sheet of dense connective tissue that unites the radius and ulna bones.
- interosseous membrane of the leg
-
Sheet of dense connective tissue that unites the shafts of the tibia and fibula bones.
- interphalangeal joint
-
Articulation between adjacent phalanx bones of the hand or foot digits.
- interphase
-
Entire life cycle of a cell, excluding mitosis.
- interstitial endocrine cells
-
(also Leydig cells) cells between the seminiferous tubules of the testes that produce testosterone
- interstitial fluid
-
fluid between cells and tissues, excluding plasma or lymph
- interstitial fluid (IF)
-
Fluid in the small spaces between cells not contained within blood vessels.
- Interstitial fluid colloidal osmotic pressure (IFCOP)
-
pressure exerted by the colloids within the interstitial fluid
- interstitial fluid hydrostatic pressure (IFHP)
-
force exerted by the fluid in the tissue spaces
- intertrochanteric crest
-
Short, prominent ridge running between the greater and lesser trochanters on the posterior side of the proximal femur.
- intertrochanteric line
-
Small ridge running between the greater and lesser trochanters on the anterior side of the proximal femur.
- intertubercular groove (sulcus)
-
Bicipital groove; narrow groove located between the greater and lesser tubercles of the humerus.
- interventricular septum
-
cardiac septum located between the two ventricles
- interventricular sulcus
-
groove between the ventricles
- intervertebral disc
-
Structure located between the bodies of adjacent vertebrae that strongly joins the vertebrae; provides padding, weight bearing ability, and enables vertebral column movements.
- intervertebral foramen
-
Opening located between adjacent vertebrae for exit of a spinal nerve.
- intestinal gland
-
(also, crypt of Lieberkühn) gland in the small intestinal mucosa that secretes intestinal juice
- intestinal juice
-
mixture of water and mucus that helps absorb nutrients from chyme
- intra-alveolar pressure
-
(intrapulmonary pressure) pressure of the air within the alveoli
- intracapsular ligament
-
ligament that is located within the articular capsule of a synovial joint
- intracellular fluid (ICF)
-
Fluid in the cytosol of cells.
- intramembranous ossification
-
Process by which bone forms directly from mesenchymal tissue.
- intrapleural pressure
-
pressure of the air within the pleural cavity
- intrinsic factor
-
glycoprotein required for vitamin B12 absorption in the small intestine
- intrinsic ligament
-
ligament that is fused to or incorporated into the wall of the articular capsule of a synovial joint
- intrinsic muscles of the hand
-
muscles that move the wrists, hands, and fingers and originate in the palm
- intrinsic pathway
-
initial coagulation pathway that begins with vascular damage or contact with foreign substances, and results in the activation of the common pathway
- involution
-
postpartum shrinkage of the uterus back to its pre-pregnancy volume
- ion
-
atom with an overall positive or negative charge
- ionic bond
-
attraction between an anion and a cation
- ionic bonds
-
attraction between an anion and a cation
- ionotropic receptor
-
an ion channel gate that opens by neurotransmitter binding
- ipsilateral
-
word meaning on the same side, as in axons that do not cross the midline in a fiber tract
- ipsilateral reflex
-
reflex in which receptor and effector are on the same side of the body
- iris
-
colored portion of the anterior eye that surrounds the pupil
- irregular bone
-
Bone of complex shape; protects internal organs from compressive forces.
- ischemia
-
a reduction in blood flow that results in hypoxia (insufficient delivery of oxygen to the cells and tissues of the body)
- ischial ramus
-
Bony extension projecting anteriorly and superiorly from the ischial tuberosity; joins with the inferior pubic ramus to form the ischiopubic ramus.
- ischial spine
-
Pointed, bony projection from the posterior margin of the ischium that separates the greater sciatic notch and lesser sciatic notch.
- ischial tuberosity
-
Large, roughened protuberance that forms the posteroinferior portion of the hip bone; weight-bearing region of the pelvis when sitting.
- ischiococcygeus
-
muscle that assists the levator ani and pulls the coccyx anteriorly
- ischiopubic ramus
-
Narrow extension of bone that connects the ischial tuberosity to the pubic body; formed by the junction of the ischial ramus and inferior pubic ramus.
- ischium
-
Posteroinferior portion of the hip bone.
- isometric contraction
-
muscle contraction that occurs with no change in muscle length
- isotonic
-
Describes a solution concentration that is the same as a reference concentration.
- isotonic contraction
-
muscle contraction that involves changes in muscle length
- Isotopes
-
one of the variations of an element in which the number of neutrons differ from each other
- isthmus
-
narrow, medial portion of the uterine tube that joins the uterus; narrow region of the body of the uterus superior to the cervix
- jaundice
-
yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes due to excess bilirubin in the blood
- jejunum
-
middle part of the small intestine between the duodenum and the ileum
- joint
-
site at which two or more bones or bone and cartilage come together (articulate)
- joint cavity
-
space enclosed by the articular capsule of a synovial joint that is filled with synovial fluid and contains the articulating surfaces of the adjacent bones
- jugular (suprasternal) notch
-
Shallow notch located on superior surface of sternal manubrium.
- jugular foramen
-
Irregularly shaped opening located in the lateral floor of the posterior cranial cavity.
- jugular veins
-
blood vessels that return “used” blood from the head and neck
- juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA)
-
located at the juncture of the DCT and the afferent and efferent arterioles of the glomerulus; plays a role in the regulation of renal blood flow and GFR
- juxtaglomerular cell
-
modified smooth muscle cells of the afferent arteriole; secretes renin in response to a drop in blood pressure
- juxtamedullary nephrons
-
nephrons adjacent to the border of the cortex and medulla with loops of Henle that extend into the renal medulla
- karyotype
-
systematic arrangement of images of chromosomes into homologous pairs
- keloid
-
Type of scar that has layers raised above the skin surface.
- keratin
-
Type of structural protein that gives skin, hair, and nails its hard, water-resistant properties.
- keratinocyte
-
Cell that produces keratin and is the most predominant type of cell found in the epidermis.
- keratohyalin
-
Granulated protein found in the stratum granulosum.
- ketoacidosis
-
abnormally high levels of acid in the blood caused by increased levels of ketone bodies
- ketone bodies
-
alternative source of energy when glucose is limited, created when too much acetyl CoA is created during fatty acid oxidation
- ketonuria
-
high levels of ketone bodies in urine
- kidneys
-
main organ of the urinary system where blood is filtered, and the filtrate is transformed into urine at a constant rate throughout the day
- kinesin
-
a motor protein involved in neuronal anterograde transport
- kinesthesia
-
sense of body movement based on sensations in skeletal muscles, tendons, joints, and the skin
- kinetic energy
-
Energy that matter possesses because of its motion.
- kinetochore
-
Region of a centromere where microtubules attach to a pair of sister chromatids.
- kinins
-
peptides that contribute to pain, inflammation and smooth muscle contraction
- knee joint
-
Joint that separates the thigh and leg portions of the lower limb; formed by the articulations between the medial and lateral condyles of the femur, and the medial and lateral condyles of the tibia.
- Korotkoff sounds
-
noises created by turbulent blood flow through the vessels
- Krebs Cycle
-
also called the citric acid cycle or the tricarboxylic acid cycle, converts pyruvate into CO2 and high-energy FADH2, NADH, and ATP molecules
- kyphosis
-
(Also, humpback or hunchback) excessive posterior curvature of the thoracic vertebral column region.
- labia majora
-
hair-covered folds of skin located behind the mons pubis
- labia minora
-
thin, pigmented, hairless flaps of skin located medial to the labia majora
- lacrimal bone
-
Paired bones that contribute to the anterior-medial wall of each orbit.
- lacrimal duct
-
duct in the medial corner of the orbit that drains tears into the nasal cavity
- lacrimal fossa
-
Shallow depression in the anterior-medial wall of the orbit, formed by the lacrimal bone that gives rise to the nasolacrimal canal.
- lacrimal gland
-
gland lateral to the orbit that produces tears to wash across the surface of the eye
- lactase
-
brush border enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose
- lactation
-
process by which milk is synthesized and secreted from the mammary glands of the postpartum female breast in response to sucking at the nipple
- Lacteal
-
lymphatic capillaries of the gut that absorb bile to form chyle
- lactic acid
-
product of anaerobic glycolysis
- lactiferous ducts
-
ducts that connect the mammary glands to the nipple and allow for the transport of milk
- lactiferous sinus
-
area of milk collection between alveoli and lactiferous duct
- lacunae
-
(Singular = lacuna) spaces in a bone that house an osteocyte.
- lambdoid suture
-
Inverted V-shaped joint that unites the occipital bone to the right and left parietal bones on the posterior skull.
- lamellated (Pacinian) corpuscles
-
encapsulated nerve endings located in the deep dermis or subcutaneous layer that detect deep pressure or vibration
- lamina
-
Portion of the vertebral arch on each vertebra that extends between the transverse and spinous process.
- lamina propria
-
Areolar connective tissue underlying a mucous membrane.
- Langerhans cell
-
Specialized dendritic cell found in the stratum spinosum that functions as a macrophage.
- lanugo
-
silk-like hairs that coat the fetus; shed later in fetal development
- large intestine
-
terminal portion of the alimentary canal
- laryngeal prominence
-
region where the two lamine of the thyroid cartilage join, forming a protrusion known as “Adam’s apple”
- laryngopharynx
-
portion of the pharynx bordered by the oropharynx superiorly and esophagus and trachea inferiorly; serves as a route for both air and food
- larynx
-
cartilaginous structure that produces the voice, prevents food and beverages from entering the trachea, and regulates the volume of air that enters and leaves the lungs
- latent period
-
the time when a twitch does not produce contraction
- lateral
-
Describes the side or direction toward the side of the body.
- lateral apertures
-
pair of openings from the fourth ventricle to the subarachnoid space on either side and between the medulla and cerebellum
- lateral border of the scapula
-
Diagonally oriented lateral margin of the scapula.
- lateral column
-
white matter of the spinal cord between the posterior horn on one side and the axons from the anterior horn on the same side; composed of many different groups of axons, of both ascending and descending tracts, carrying sensory and motor commands to and from the brain
- lateral compartment of the leg
-
region that includes the fibularis (peroneus) longus and the fibularis (peroneus) brevis and their associated blood vessels and nerves
- lateral condyle of the femur
-
Smooth, articulating surface that forms the distal and posterior sides of the lateral expansion of the distal femur.
- lateral condyle of the tibia
-
Lateral, expanded region of the proximal tibia that includes the smooth surface that articulates with the lateral condyle of the femur as part of the knee joint.
- lateral corticospinal tract
-
division of the corticospinal pathway that travels through the lateral column of the spinal cord and controls appendicular musculature through the lateral motor neurons in the ventral (anterior) horn
- lateral cuneiform
-
Most lateral of the three cuneiform tarsal bones; articulates posteriorly with the navicular bone, medially with the intermediate cuneiform bone, laterally with the cuboid bone, and anteriorly with the third metatarsal bone.
- lateral epicondyle of the femur
-
Roughened area of the femur located on the lateral side of the lateral condyle.
- lateral epicondyle of the humerus
-
Small projection located on the lateral side of the distal humerus.
- lateral geniculate nucleus
-
thalamic target of the RGCs that projects to the visual cortex
- lateral horn
-
region of the spinal cord gray matter in the thoracic and upper lumbar regions that is the central component of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system
- lateral malleolus
-
Expanded distal end of the fibula.
- lateral meniscus
-
C-shaped fibrocartilage articular disc located at the knee, between the lateral condyle of the femur and the lateral condyle of the tibia
- lateral plantar artery
-
arises from the bifurcation of the posterior tibial arteries; supplies blood to the lateral plantar surfaces of the foot
- lateral rectus
-
extraocular muscle responsible for abduction of the eye
- lateral sacral crest
-
Paired irregular ridges running down the lateral sides of the posterior sacrum that was formed by the fusion of the transverse processes from the five sacral vertebrae.
- lateral sulcus
-
surface landmark of the cerebral cortex that marks the boundary between the temporal lobe and the frontal and parietal lobes
- lateral supracondylar ridge
-
Narrow, bony ridge located along the lateral side of the distal humerus, superior to the lateral epicondyle.
- lateral ventricles
-
portions of the ventricular system that are in the region of the cerebrum
- lateralis
-
to the outside
- latissimus dorsi
-
broad, triangular axial muscle located on the inferior part of the back
- Leakage channel
-
ion channel that opens randomly and is not gated to a specific event, also known as a non-gated channel
- lectin pathway
-
complement activated by the presence of certain carbohydrates typical of some bacteria
- left atrioventricular valve
-
(also, mitral valve or bicuspid valve) valve located between the left atrium and ventricle; consists of two flaps of tissue
- Left auricle
-
flaplike extension on the surface of the left atrium
- left colic flexure
-
(also, splenic flexure) point where the transverse colon curves below the inferior end of the spleen
- left gastric artery
-
branch of the celiac trunk; supplies blood to the stomach
- leg
-
Portion of the lower limb located between the knee and ankle joints.
- lens
-
component of the eye that focuses light on the retina
- leptin
-
protein hormone secreted by adipose tissues in response to food consumption that promotes satiety
- lesser pelvis
-
(also, lesser pelvic cavity or true pelvis) narrow space located within the pelvis, defined superiorly by the pelvic brim (pelvic inlet) and inferiorly by the pelvic outlet
- lesser sciatic foramen
-
pelvic opening formed by the lesser sciatic notch of the hip bone, the sacrospinous ligament, and the sacrotuberous ligament
- lesser sciatic notch
-
shallow indentation along the posterior margin of the ischium, inferior to the ischial spine
- lesser trochanter
-
small, bony projection on the medial side of the proximal femur, at the base of the femoral neck
- lesser tubercle
-
small, bony prominence located on anterior side of the proximal humerus
- lesser wings of the sphenoid bone
-
Lateral extensions of the sphenoid bone that form the bony lip separating the anterior and middle cranial fossae.
- Let-Down Reflex
-
release of milk from the alveoli triggered by infant suckling
- leukemia
-
cancer involving leukocytes
- leukocyte
-
(also, white blood cell) colorless, nucleated blood cell, the chief function of which is to protect the body from disease
- leukocyte esterase
-
enzyme produced by leukocytes that can be detected in the urine and that serves as an indirect indicator of urinary tract infection
- leukocytosis
-
excessive leukocyte proliferation
- leukopenia
-
below-normal production of leukocytes
- leukopoiesis
-
leukocyte proliferation in bone marrow
- levator ani
-
pelvic muscle that resists intra-abdominal pressure and supports the pelvic viscera
- levator palpebrae superioris
-
muscle that causes elevation of the upper eyelid, controlled by fibers in the oculomotor nerve
- ligament
-
strong band of dense connective tissue spanning between bones
- ligamentum flavum
-
Series of short ligaments that unite the lamina of adjacent vertebrae.
- Ligand-gated channels
-
ion channel that opens upon neurotransmitter binding
- lightening
-
descent of the fetus lower into the pelvis in late pregnancy; also called “dropping”
- limbic lobe
-
structures arranged around the edges of the cerebrum that are involved in memory and emotion
- limbic system
-
structures at the edge (limit) of the boundary between the forebrain and hindbrain that are most associated with emotional behavior and memory formation
- linea alba
-
white, fibrous band that runs along the midline of the trunk
- linea aspera
-
longitudinally running bony ridge located in the middle third of the posterior femur
- lingual frenulum
-
mucous membrane fold that attaches the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth
- lingual lipase
-
digestive enzyme from glands in the tongue that acts on triglycerides
- lingual tonsil
-
lymphoid tissue located at the base of the tongue
- lingula
-
Small flap of bone located on the inner (medial) surface of mandibular ramus, next to the mandibular foramen.
- lipid
-
Class of nonpolar organic compounds built from hydrocarbons and distinguished by the fact that they are not soluble in water.
- lipid-soluble hormones
-
hydrophobic hormones that easily dissolve in fats and oils, and tend to dissolve poorly in water-based fluids
- lipogenesis
-
synthesis of lipids that occurs in the liver or adipose tissues
- lipolysis
-
catabolism of triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol
- liver
-
largest gland in the body whose main digestive function is the production of bile
- local hormones
-
hormones that act upon neighboring cells or the original cell that secreted them
- local potential
-
change in membrane potential that is limited to the area nearby an open ion gate
- lochia
-
postpartum vaginal discharge that begins as blood and ends as a whitish discharge; the end of lochia signals that the site of placental attachment has healed
- long bone
-
Cylinder-shaped bone that is longer than it is wide; functions as a lever.
- long reflex
-
reflex arc that includes the central nervous system
- longissimus group
-
intermediately placed muscles of the erector spinae
- longitudinal fissure
-
large separation along the midline between the two cerebral hemispheres
- loop of Henle
-
descending and ascending portions between the proximal and distal convoluted tubules; those of cortical nephrons do not extend into the medulla, whereas those of juxtamedullary nephrons do extend into the medulla
- loose connective tissue
-
(Also, areolar tissue) type of connective tissue proper that shows little specialization with cells dispersed in the matrix.
- lordosis
-
(Also, swayback) excessive anterior curvature of the lumbar vertebral column region.
- lower esophageal sphincte
-
smooth muscle sphincter that regulates food movement from the esophagus to the stomach
- lower motor neuron
-
second neuron in the motor command pathway that is directly connected to the skeletal muscle
- lower respiratory system
-
include the larynx, trachea, bronchioles, and lungs
- lumbar arteries
-
branches of the abdominal aorta; supply blood to the lumbar region, the abdominal wall, and spinal cord
- lumbar curve
-
Posteriorly concave curvature of the lumbar vertebral column region; a secondary curve of the vertebral column.
- lumbar enlargement
-
region of the ventral (anterior) horn of the spinal cord that has a larger population of motor neurons for the greater number of muscles of the lower limb
- lumbar plexus
-
nerve plexus associated with the lumbar spinal nerves
- lumbar puncture
-
procedure used to withdraw CSF from the lower lumbar region of the vertebral column that avoids the risk of damaging CNS tissue because the spinal cord ends at the upper lumbar vertebrae
- lumbar vertebrae
-
Five vertebrae numbered as L1–L5 that are located in lumbar region (lower back) of the vertebral column.
- lumen
-
interior of a tubular structure such as a blood vessel or a portion of the alimentary canal through which blood, chyme, or other substances travel
- lunate
-
from the lateral side, the second of the four proximal carpal bones; articulates with the radius proximally, the capitate and hamate distally, the scaphoid laterally, and the triquetrum medially
- lung
-
organ of the respiratory system that performs gas exchange
- lunula
-
Basal part of the nail body that consists of a crescent-shaped layer of thick epithelium.
- luteinizing hormone (LH)
-
anterior pituitary hormone that triggers ovulation and the production of ovarian hormones, and the production of testosterone
- lymph
-
fluid contained within the lymphatic system
- lymph node
-
one of the bean-shaped organs found associated with the lymphatic vessels
- lymphatic capillaries
-
smallest of the lymphatic vessels and the origin of lymph flow
- lymphatic system
-
network of lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, and ducts that carries lymph from the tissues and back to the bloodstream
- lymphatic trunks
-
large lymphatics that collect lymph from smaller lymphatic vessels and empties into the
blood via lymphatic ducts - lymphatic vessels
-
Lymphatic vasculature that form from fused smaller lymphatic capillaries, these deliver lymph to and from lymph nodes
- lymphocytes
-
agranular leukocytes of the lymphoid stem cell line, many of which function in specific immunity
- Lymphoid stem cells
-
type of hematopoietic stem cells that gives rise to lymphocytes, including various T cells, B cells, and NK cells, all of which function in immunity
- lysosome
-
Membrane-bound cellular organelle originating from the Golgi apparatus and containing digestive enzymes.
- lysozyme
-
digestive enzyme with bactericidal properties
- MAC
-
membrane attack complex, the interaction of C5, C6, C7, C8 and several C9s creates a hole in bacterial membranes disrupting the targeted cell
- macromolecule
-
Large molecule formed by covalent bonding.
- Macrophage
-
phagocytic cell of the myeloid lineage; a matured monocyte
- macroscopic anatomy
-
Study of the larger structures of the body, typically with the unaided eye; also referred to as gross anatomy.
- macula
-
enlargement at the base of a semicircular canal at which transduction of equilibrium stimuli takes place within the ampulla
- macula densa
-
cells found in the part of the DCT forming the JGA; sense Na+ concentration in the forming urine
- main pancreatic duct
-
(also, duct of Wirsung) duct through which pancreatic juice drains from the pancreas
- major duodenal papilla
-
point at which the hepatopancreatic ampulla opens into the duodenum
- major histocompatibility complex (MHC)
-
gene cluster whose proteins present antigens to T cells
- malleus
-
(also, hammer) ossicle that is directly attached to the tympanic membrane
- MALT
-
mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, lymphoid tissue associated with the digestive tract and respiratory system
- maltase
-
brush border enzyme that breaks down maltose and maltotriose into two and three molecules of glucose, respectively
- mammary glands
-
glands inside the breast that secrete milk
- mandible
-
Unpaired bone that forms the lower jaw bone; the only moveable bone of the skull.
- mandibular foramen
-
Opening located on the inner (medial) surface of the mandibular ramus.
- mandibular fossa
-
Oval depression located on the inferior surface of the skull.
- mandibular notch
-
Large U-shaped notch located between the condylar process and coronoid process of the mandible.
- manubrium
-
Expanded, superior portion of the sternum.
- margination
-
instead of the middle of the blood vessel, cells travel along the wall by sticking and rolling via CAM interactions
- mass movement
-
long, slow, peristaltic wave in the large intestine
- mass number
-
Sum of the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.
- masseter
-
main muscle for chewing that elevates the mandible to close the mouth
- mast cell
-
cell found in the skin and the lining of body cells that contains cytoplasmic granules with
vasoactive mediators such as histamine (similar to basophils) - mastication
-
chewing
- mastoid process
-
Large bony prominence on the inferior, lateral skull, just behind the earlobe.
- matrix
-
Extracellular material which is produced by the cells embedded in it, containing ground substance and fibers.
- Matter
-
physical substance; that which occupies space and has mass
- matter
-
Physical substance; that which occupies space and has mass.
- maxillary bone
-
(Also, maxilla) paired bones that form the upper jaw and anterior portion of the hard palate.
- maxillary sinus
-
Air-filled space located with each maxillary bone; largest of the paranasal sinuses.
- maximus
-
largest
- mean arterial pressure (MAP)
-
average driving force of blood to the tissues; approximated by taking diastolic pressure and adding 1/3 of pulse pressure
- meatus
-
one of three recesses (superior, middle, and inferior) in the nasal cavity attached to the conchae that increase the surface area of the nasal cavity
- mechanical digestion
-
chewing, mixing, and segmentation that prepares food for chemical digestion
- mechanically gated channel
-
ion channel that opens when a physical event directly affects the structure of the protein
- Mechanoreceptor
-
receptor cell that transduces mechanical stimuli into an electrochemical signal
- meconium
-
fetal wastes consisting of ingested amniotic fluid, cellular debris, mucus, and bile
- medial
-
Describes the middle or direction toward the middle of the body.
- medial border of the scapula
-
elongated, medial margin of the scapula
- medial condyle of the femur
-
smooth, articulating surface that forms the distal and posterior sides of the medial expansion of the distal femur
- medial condyle of the tibia
-
medial, expanded region of the proximal tibia that includes the smooth surface that articulates with the medial condyle of the femur as part of the knee joint
- medial cuneiform
-
most medial of the three cuneiform tarsal bones; articulates posteriorly with the navicular bone, laterally with the intermediate cuneiform bone, and anteriorly with the first and second metatarsal bones
- medial forebrain bundle
-
fiber pathway that extends anteriorly into the basal forebrain, passes through the hypothalamus, and extends into the brain stem and spinal cord
- medial geniculate nucleus
-
thalamic target of the auditory brain stem that projects to the auditory cortex
- medial lemniscus
-
fiber tract of the dorsal column system that extends from the nuclei gracilis and cuneatus to the thalamus, and decussates
- medial malleolus
-
bony expansion located on the medial side of the distal tibia
- medial meniscus
-
C-shaped fibrocartilage articular disc located at the knee, between the medial condyle of the femur and medial condyle of the tibia
- medial rectus
-
extraocular muscle responsible for adduction of the eye
- medialis
-
to the inside
- median cubital vein
-
superficial vessel located in the antecubital region that links the cephalic vein to the basilic vein in the form of a v; a frequent site for a blood draw
- median nerve
-
systemic nerve of the arm, located between the ulnar and radial nerves
- median sacral artery
-
continuation of the aorta into the sacrum
- median sacral crest
-
Irregular ridge running down the midline of the posterior sacrum that was formed from the fusion of the spinous processes of the five sacral vertebrae.
- mediastinum
-
area within the thoracic cavity that contains the lungs and the heart
- medius
-
medium
- medulla (skin)
-
in hair, the innermost layer of keratinocytes originating from the hair matrix
- medulla (urinary)
-
inner region of kidney containing the renal pyramids
- medulla oblongata
-
lowest portion of the brainstem
- medullary cavity
-
Hollow region of the diaphysis; filled with yellow marrow.
- megakaryocyte
-
bone marrow cell that produces platelets
- Meiosis
-
type of cell division that makes daughter cells with half as many chromosomes as the parent cell; type of cell division for gamete production
- Meissner corpuscle
-
(Also, tactile corpuscle) receptor in the skin that responds to light touch.
- melanin
-
Pigment that determines the color of hair and skin.
- melanocyte
-
Cell found in the stratum basale of the epidermis that produces the pigment melanin.
- melanocyte-stimulating hormone
-
hormone secreted by the intermediate zone of the pituitary gland that increase melanocyte production of melanin
- melanoma
-
Type of skin cancer that originates from the melanocytes of the skin.
- melanosome
-
Intercellular vesicle that transfers melanin from melanocytes into keratinocytes of the epidermis.
- melatonin
-
amino acid–derived hormone that is secreted in response to low light and causes drowsiness
- membrane potential
-
distribution of charge across the cell membrane, based on the charges of ions
- membranous urethra
-
portion of male urethra that passes through the deep muscles of the perineum
- memory cell
-
type of B or T lymphocyte that forms after exposure to a pathogen
- memory lymphocytes
-
long-lived T or B cell reserved for future exposure to a pathogen
- menarche
-
first menstruation in a pubertal female
- meningeal layer
-
dense fibrous membrane that passes through the foramen magnum and is continuous with the dura mater of the spinal cord
- meninges
-
protective outer coverings of the CNS composed of connective tissue
- meningitis
-
inflammation of the meninges
- meniscus
-
articular disc
- menopause
-
the natural decline in female reproductive hormones and the ceasing of menstrual periods
- menses
-
shedding of the inner portion of the endometrium out though the vagina; also referred to as menstruation or menstrual period
- menses phase
-
phase of the menstrual cycle in which the endometrial lining is shed
- menstrual cycle
-
approximately 28-day cycle of changes in the uterus consisting of a menses phase, a proliferative phase, and a secretory phase
- mental foramen
-
Opening located on the anterior-lateral side of the mandibular body.
- mental protuberance
-
Inferior margin of anterior mandible that forms the chin.
- Merkel cell
-
Receptor cell in the stratum basale of the epidermis that responds to the sense of touch.
- merocrine secretion
-
Release of a substance from a gland via exocytosis.
- mesangial
-
contractile cells found in the glomerulus; can contract or relax to regulate filtration rate
- mesencephalon
-
primary vesicle of the embryonic brain that does not significantly change through the rest of embryonic development and becomes the midbrain
- mesenchymal cell
-
Adult stem cell from which most connective tissue cells are derived.
- mesenchyme
-
Embryonic tissue from which connective tissue cells derive.
- mesoappendix
-
mesentery of the appendix
- mesoderm
-
Middle embryonic germ layer from which connective tissue, muscle tissue, and some epithelial tissue derive.
- mesothelium
-
Simple squamous epithelial tissue which covers the major body cavities and is the epithelial portion of serous membranes.
- messenger RNA (mRNA)
-
Nucleotide molecule that serves as an intermediate in the genetic code between DNA and protein.
- metabolic acidosis
-
condition wherein a deficiency of bicarbonate causes the blood to be overly acidic
- metabolic alkalosis
-
condition wherein an excess of bicarbonate causes the blood to be overly alkaline
- metabolic rate
-
amount of energy consumed minus the amount of energy expended by the body
- metabolism
-
Sum of all of the body’s chemical reactions.
- Metabotropic receptor
-
neurotransmitter receptor that involves a complex of proteins that cause
metabolic changes in a cell - metacarpal bone
-
one of the five long bones that form the palm of the hand; numbered 1–5, starting on the lateral (thumb) side of the hand
- metacarpophalangeal joint
-
articulation between the distal end of a metacarpal bone of the hand and a proximal phalanx bone of the thumb or a finger
- metaphase
-
Second stage of mitosis (and meiosis), characterized by the linear alignment of sister chromatids in the center of the cell.
- metaphase plate
-
Linear alignment of sister chromatids in the center of the cell, which takes place during metaphase.
- metarteriole
-
short vessel arising from a terminal arteriole that branches to supply a capillary bed
- metastasis
-
Spread of cancer cells from a source to other parts of the body.
- metatarsal bone
-
one of the five elongated bones that forms the anterior half of the foot; numbered 1–5, starting on the medial side of the foot
- metatarsophalangeal joint
-
articulation between a metatarsal bone of the foot and the proximal phalanx bone of a toe
- metencephalon
-
secondary vesicle of the embryonic brain that develops into the pons and the cerebellum
- MHC class I
-
found on most cells of the body, it binds to the CD8 molecule on T cells
- MHC polygeny
-
multiple MHC genes and their proteins found in body cells
- MHC polymorphism
-
multiple alleles for each individual MHC locus
- microbiota
-
(aka normal flora) the typical bacteria, viruses and other microbes associated with healthy populations
- microfilament
-
The thinnest of the cytoskeletal filaments; composed of actin subunits that function in muscle contraction and cellular structural support.
- Microglia
-
cell type in the CNS that serves as the resident component of the immune system
- microscopic anatomy
-
Study of very small structures of the body using magnification.
- microtubule
-
The thickest of the cytoskeletal filaments, composed of tubulin subunits that function in cellular movement and structural support.
- microvillus
-
small projection of the plasma membrane of the absorptive cells of the small intestinal mucosa
- micturition
-
also called urination or voiding
- midbrain
-
middle region of the adult brain that develops from the mesencephalon
- middle cardiac vein
-
vessel that parallels and drains the areas supplied by the posterior interventricular artery; drains into the great cardiac vein
- middle cerebral artery
-
another branch of the internal carotid artery; supplies blood to the temporal and parietal lobes of the cerebrum
- middle cranial fossa
-
Centrally located cranial fossa that extends from the lesser wings of the sphenoid bone to the petrous ridge.
- middle ear
-
space within the temporal bone between the ear canal and bony labyrinth where the ossicles amplify sound waves from the tympanic membrane to the oval window
- middle nasal concha
-
Nasal concha formed by the ethmoid bone that is located between the superior and inferior conchae.
- migrating motility complex
-
form of peristalsis in the small intestine
- milk ejection reflex
-
process occurring in breastfeeding where an infant’s suckling triggers the movement of milk from breast alveoli to milk ducts that eject milk into the infant’s mouth (also called let-down reflex)
- mineralocorticoids
-
hormones produced by the zona glomerulosa cells of the adrenal cortex that influence fluid and electrolyte balance
- Minerals
-
inorganic compounds required by the body to ensure proper function of the body
- mini flaps
-
openings that allow IF to enter lymphatic capillaries, becoming lymph
- minimus
-
smallest
- mitochondrion
-
One of the cellular organelles bound by a double lipid bilayer that function primarily in the production of cellular energy (ATP).
- mitosis
-
Division of genetic material, during which the cell nucleus breaks down and two new, fully functional, nuclei are formed.
- mitotic spindle
-
Network of microtubules, originating from centrioles, that arranges and pulls apart chromosomes during mitosis.
- mitral valve
-
(also, left atrioventricular valve or bicuspid valve) valve located between the left atrium and ventricle; consists of two flaps of tissue
- mitral valve prolapse
-
one of the cusps of the mitral valve is forced backward by the force of the blood
- mixing wave
-
unique type of peristalsis that occurs in the stomach
- modeling
-
Process, during bone growth, by which bone is resorbed on one surface of a bone and deposited on another.
- moderator band
-
band of myocardium covered by endocardium that arises from the inferior portion of the interventricular septum in the right ventricle and crosses to the anterior papillary muscle; contains conductile fibers that carry electrical signals followed by contraction of the heart
- Molar
-
tooth used for crushing and grinding food
- molecule
-
Two or more atoms covalently bonded together.
- monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
-
a drug prescribed to serotonin deficient patients to potentiate the neurotransmitter effects by reducing intracellular enzymatic degradation
- monocyte
-
precursor to macrophages and dendritic cells seen in the blood
- monocytes
-
agranular leukocytes of the myeloid stem cell line that circulate in the bloodstream; tissue monocytes are macrophages
- monosaccharide
-
Monomer of carbohydrate; also known as a simple sugar.
- monosynaptic reflex
-
rapid reflex arc where the incoming sensory neuron synapses directly on the lower motor neuron minimizing synaptic delay
- mons pubis
-
mound of fatty tissue located at the front of the vulva
- morula
-
tightly packed sphere of blastomeres that has reached the uterus but has not yet implanted itself
- motility
-
movement of food through the GI tract
- motor neuron
-
neuron that send action potentials towards muscles and glands for body movement and regulating physiology
- motor unit
-
motor neuron and the group of muscle fibers it innervates
- movement
-
The change of position by an organism or part of organism, often in response to stimuli.
- mucosa
-
innermost lining of the alimentary canal
- mucous connective tissue
-
Specialized loose connective tissue present in the umbilical cord.
- mucous gland
-
Group of cells that secrete mucous, a thick, slippery substance that keeps tissues moist and acts as a lubricant.
- mucous membrane
-
Tissue membrane that is covered by protective mucous and lines tissue exposed to the outside environment.
- multiaxial joint
-
type of diarthrosis; a joint that allows for movements within three planes (three axes)
- multipennate
-
pennate muscle that has a tendon branching within it
- Multiple sclerosis
-
a pathologic condition caused by progressive demyelination of neurons in the CNS
- multipolar neurons
-
shape of a neuron that has multiple processes—the axon and two or more dendrites
- Murmur
-
unusual heart sound detected by auscultation; typically related to septal or valve defects
- muscarinic receptor
-
type of acetylcholine receptor protein that is characterized by also binding to
muscarine and is a metabotropic receptor - muscle fiber
-
a single muscle cell
- muscle spindle
-
specialized intrafusal muscle fiber that detects stretch of a muscle
- muscle tension
-
force generated by the contraction of the muscle; tension generated during isotonic contractions and isometric contractions
- muscle tissue
-
Type of tissue that is capable of contracting and generating tension in response to stimulation; produces movement.
- muscle tone
-
low levels of muscle contraction that occur when a muscle is not producing movement
- muscular artery
-
(also, distributing artery) artery with abundant smooth muscle in the tunica media that branches to distribute blood to the arteriole network
- muscularis
-
muscle (skeletal or smooth) layer of the alimentary canal wall
- mutation
-
Change in the nucleotide sequence in a gene within a cell’s DNA.
- myelencephalon
-
secondary vesicle of the embryonic brain that develops into the medulla
- myelin
-
Layer of lipid inside some neuroglial cells that wraps around the axons of some neurons.
- myelin sheath
-
multiple layers of insulating myelin of some neuron axon regions allowing for faster transmission of electrical signals
- myelination
-
process of producing layers of myelin around neuron axons
- Myeloid stem cells
-
type of hematopoietic stem cell that gives rise to some formed elements, including erythrocytes, megakaryocytes that produce platelets, and a myeloblast lineage that gives rise to monocytes and three forms of granular leukocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils)
- myenteric plexus
-
(plexus of Auerbach) major nerve supply to alimentary canal wall; controls motility
- mylohyoid
-
muscle that lifts the hyoid bone and helps press the tongue to the top of the mouth
- mylohyoid line
-
Bony ridge located along the inner (medial) surface of the mandibular body.
- myoblast
-
muscle-forming stem cell
- myocardial infarction
-
commonly known as a heart attack, results from a complete blockage of a coronary artery, or more likely several coronary arteries, resulting in the death of the cardiac muscle cells (necrosis)
- myocardium
-
thickest layer of the heart composed of cardiac muscle cells built upon a framework of primarily collagenous fibers and blood vessels that supply it and the nervous fibers that help to regulate it
- myocyte
-
Muscle cells.
- Myofibril
-
long, cylindrical organelle that runs parallel within the muscle fiber and contains the sarcomeres
- myofilament
-
thread-like muscle proteins
- myogenic mechanism
-
mechanism by which smooth muscle responds to stretch by contracting; an increase in blood pressure causes vasoconstriction and a decrease in blood pressure causes vasodilation so that blood flow downstream remains steady
- Myogenic response
-
constriction or dilation in the walls of arterioles in response to pressures related to blood flow; reduces high blood flow or increases low blood flow to help maintain consistent flow to the capillary network
- myogram
-
instrument used to measure twitch tension
- myometrium
-
smooth muscle layer of uterus that allows for uterine contractions during labor and expulsion of menstrual blood
- myosin
-
protein that makes up most of the thick cylindrical myofilament within a sarcomere muscle fiber
- NADH
-
high-energy molecule needed for glycolysis
- nail bed
-
Layer of epidermis upon which the nail body forms.
- nail body
-
Main keratinous plate that forms the nail.
- nail cuticle
-
Fold of epithelium that extends over the nail bed, also called the eponychium.
- nail fold
-
Fold of epithelium at that extend over the sides of the nail body, holding it in place.
- nail root
-
Part of the nail that is lodged deep in the epidermis from which the nail grows.
- naïve lymphocyte
-
mature B or T cell that has not yet encountered antigen for the first time
- naris
-
(plural = nares) opening of the nostrils
- nasal bone
-
Paired bones that form the base of the nose.
- nasal cavity
-
Opening through skull for passage of air.
- nasal conchae
-
Curved bony plates that project from the lateral walls of the nasal cavity; include the superior and middle nasal conchae, which are parts of the ethmoid bone, and the independent inferior nasal conchae bone.
- nasal septum
-
Flat, midline structure that divides the nasal cavity into halves, formed by the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone, vomer bone, and septal cartilage.
- nasolacrimal canal
-
Passage for drainage of tears that extends downward from the medial-anterior orbit to the nasal cavity, terminating behind the inferior nasal conchae.
- nasopharynx
-
portion of the pharynx flanked by the conchae and oropharynx that serves as an airway
- natural immunity
-
the normal exposure to a pathogen or toxin causing an immune response
- natural killer (NK) cells
-
cytotoxic lymphocytes capable of recognizing cells that do not express “self” proteins on their plasma membrane or that contain foreign or abnormal markers; provide generalized, nonspecific immunity
- natural killer cell (NK)
-
cytotoxic lymphocyte of innate immune response
- navicular
-
tarsal bone that articulates posteriorly with the talus bone, laterally with the cuboid bone, and anteriorly with the medial, intermediate, and lateral cuneiform bones
- neck of the femur
-
narrowed region located inferior to the head of the femur
- neck of the radius
-
narrowed region immediately distal to the head of the radius
- neck of the rib
-
Narrowed region of a rib, next to the rib head.
- necrosis
-
Accidental death of cells and tissues.
- negative feedback
-
Homeostatic mechanism that tends to stabilize an upset in the body’s physiological condition by preventing an excessive response to a stimulus, typically as the stimulus is removed.
- negative selection
-
selection against thymocytes in the thymus that react with self-antigen neutralization inactivation of a virus by the binding of specific antibody
- neonatal hypothyroidism
-
thyroid hormone deficiency present at birth and can result in problems with physical and intellectual growth and development (also congenital hypothyroidism, cretinism (outdated))
- nephrons
-
functional units of the kidney that carry out all filtration and modification to produce urine; consist of renal corpuscles, proximal and distal convoluted tubules, and descending and ascending loops of Henle; drain into collecting ducts
- Nerve
-
cord-like bundle of axons located in the peripheral nervous system that transmits sensory input and response output to and from the central nervous system
- Nerve fibers
-
bundles of axons classified as either type A, B, or C fibers according to their diameter and degree of myelination
- nerve plexus
-
network of nerves without neuronal cell bodies included formed from the ventral rami of spinal nerves
- nervi vasorum
-
small nerve fibers found in arteries and veins that trigger contraction of the smooth muscle in their walls
- nervous tissue
-
Type of tissue that is capable of sending and receiving impulses through electrochemical signals.
- net filtration pressure (NFP)
-
force driving fluid out of the capillary and into the tissue spaces; equal to the difference of the capillary hydrostatic pressure and the blood colloidal osmotic pressure
- NETs
-
neutrophil extracellular traps, released DNA that traps and thereby sequestering pathogens
- neural crest
-
tissue that detaches from the edges of the neural groove and migrates through the embryo to develop into peripheral structures of both nervous and non-nervous tissues
- neural fold
-
elevated edge of the neural groove
- neural groove
-
region of the neural plate that folds into the dorsal surface of the embryo and closes off to become the neural tube
- neural plate
-
plate of ectoderm along the dorsal midline of the early vertebrate embryo that gives rise to the neural tube and neural crests
- neural tube
-
precursor to structures of the central nervous system, formed by the invagination and separation of neuroepithelium
- neural tunic
-
layer of the eye that contains nervous tissue, namely the retina
- neuroglia
-
Supportive neural cells.
- neuromuscular junction (NMJ)
-
synapse between the axon terminal of a motor neuron and the section of the membrane of a muscle fiber with receptors for the acetylcholine released by the terminal
- neuron
-
Excitable neural cell that transfer nerve impulses.
- neuronal pool
-
a group of neurons within a nucleus serving a common function
- neuropeptide
-
neurotransmitter of short chain (2-40) amino acids
- neurosoma
-
(aka soma) in neurons, that portion of the cell that contains the nucleus; the cell body, as opposed to the cell processes (axons and dendrites)
- neurotransmitter
-
chemical signal that is released from the synaptic end bulb of a neuron to cause a change in the target cell
- neurulation
-
embryonic process that establishes the central nervous system
- neutralization
-
antibodies blocking disease promoting molecules on a pathogens such as adherence proteins
- neutron
-
Heavy subatomic particle having no electrical charge and found in the atom’s nucleus.
- neutrophil
-
phagocytic white blood cell recruited from the bloodstream to the site of infection via the
bloodstream - neutrophils
-
granulocytes that stain with a neutral dye and are the most numerous of the leukocytes; especially active against bacteria
- nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)
-
coenzyme used to produce NADH
- nicotinic receptor
-
type of acetylcholine receptor protein that is characterized by also binding to
nicotine and is an ionotropic receptor - Nissl body
-
rough ER of neurons which appears purple and granular when viewed under a microscope
- nitric oxide (NO)
-
gas that can act as a neurotransmitter, paracrine factor, and hormone
- nitrogen (N)
-
the chemical element with the symbol N and atomic number 7. It is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas that is the most plentiful element in Earth's atmosphere and is a constituent of all living matter.
- Nociception
-
the detection of painful stimuli
- nociceptor
-
receptor cell that senses pain stimuli
- nodes of Ranvier
-
(aka neurofibril nodes)
gaps between two myelinated regions of an axon - norepinephrine
-
secondary catecholamine hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla in response to short-term stress; also called noradrenaline
- normal range
-
Range of values around the set point that do not cause a reaction by the control center.
- notochord
-
Rod-like structure along dorsal side of the early embryo; largely disappears during later development but does contribute to formation of the intervertebral discs.
- NSAIDs
-
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen
- nuchal ligament
-
Expanded portion of the supraspinous ligament within the posterior neck; interconnects the spinous processes of the cervical vertebrae and attaches to the base of the skull.
- nuclear envelope
-
Membrane that surrounds the nucleus; consisting of a double lipid-bilayer.
- nuclear pore
-
One of the small, protein-lined openings found scattered throughout the nuclear envelope.
- nuclei
-
cluster of neurons in the central nervous system, located deep within the cerebral hemispheres and brainstem
- nucleolus
-
Small region of the nucleus that functions in ribosome synthesis.
- nucleotide
-
Class of organic compounds composed of one or more phosphate groups, a pentose sugar, and a base.
- nucleus
-
Cell’s central organelle; contains the cell’s DNA.
- nucleus ambiguus
-
brain-stem nucleus that contains neurons that project through the vagus nerve to terminal ganglia in the thoracic cavity; specifically associated with the heart
- nucleus cuneatus
-
medullary nucleus at which first-order neurons of the dorsal column system synapse specifically from the upper body and arms
- nucleus gracilis
-
medullary nucleus at which first-order neurons of the dorsal column system synapse specifically from the lower body and legs
- nucleus pulposus
-
Gel-like central region of an intervertebral disc; provides for padding, weight-bearing, and movement between adjacent vertebrae.
- nutrient foramen
-
Small opening in the middle of the external surface of the diaphysis, through which an artery enters the bone to provide nourishment.
- oblique
-
at an angle
- oblique plane
-
Neither perpendicular nor parallel to a given line or surface; slanting; sloping.
- obturator foramen
-
large opening located in the anterior hip bone, between the pubis and ischium regions
- obturator nerve
-
peripheral nerve that carries sensory information from the medial thigh and motor innervation of most adductor muscles
- occipital bone
-
Unpaired bone that forms the posterior portions of the brain case and base of the skull.
- occipital condyle
-
Paired, oval-shaped bony knobs located on the inferior skull, to either side of the foramen magnum.
- occipital lobe
-
region of the cerebral cortex directly beneath the occipital bone of the cranium
- occipital sinuses
-
dural sinuses along the edge of the occipital lobes of the cerebrum
- occipitalis
-
posterior part of the occipitofrontalis muscle
- occipitofrontalis
-
muscle that makes up the scalp with a frontal belly and an occipital belly
- octet rule
-
the tendency of atoms to prefer to have eight electrons in the valence shell. When atoms have fewer than eight electrons, they tend to react and form more stable compounds.
- oculomotor nerve
-
third cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of four of the extraocular muscles, the muscle in the upper eyelid, and pupillary constriction
- Ohm’s Law
-
states that electrical current is directly proportional to voltage and indirectly to resistance
- olecranon
-
expanded posterior and superior portions of the proximal ulna; forms the bony tip of the elbow
- olecranon fossa
-
large depression located on the posterior side of the distal humerus; this space receives the olecranon process of the ulna when the elbow is fully extended
- olfaction
-
sense of smell
- olfactory bulb
-
central target of the first cranial nerve; located on the ventral surface of the frontal lobe in the cerebrum
- olfactory epithelium
-
region of the nasal epithelium where olfactory neurons are located
- olfactory nerve
-
first cranial nerve; responsible for the sense of smell
- olfactory sensory neuron
-
receptor cell of the olfactory system, sensitive to the chemical stimuli of smell, the axons of which compose the first cranial nerve
- Oligodendrocyte
-
glial cell type in the CNS that provides the myelin insulation for axons in tracts
- oliguria
-
below normal urine production of 400–500 mL/day
- omohyoid
-
muscle that has superior and inferior bellies and depresses the hyoid bone
- oocyte
-
cell that results from the division of the oogonium and undergoes meiosis I at the LH surge and meiosis II at fertilization to become a haploid ovum
- oogenesis
-
process by which oogonia divide by mitosis to primary oocytes, which undergo meiosis to produce the secondary oocyte and, upon fertilization, the ovum
- oogonia
-
ovarian stem cells that undergo mitosis during female fetal development to form primary oocytes
- open reduction
-
Surgical exposure of a bone to reset a fracture.
- ophthalmic artery
-
branch of the internal carotid artery; supplies blood to the eyes
- opportunistic diseases
-
pathogens that don’t normally cause disease in healthy individuals but can when the immune system is compromised in some way
- opsin
-
protein that contains the photosensitive cofactor retinal for phototransduction
- opsonization
-
enhancement of phagocytosis by the binding of antibody or antimicrobial protein
- optic canal
-
Opening spanning between middle cranial fossa and posterior orbit.
- optic chiasm
-
decussation point in the visual system at which medial retina fibers cross to the other side of the brain
- optic disc
-
spot on the retina at which RGC axons leave the eye and blood vessels of the inner retina pass
- optic nerve
-
second cranial nerve; responsible for visual sensation
- optic tract
-
name for the fiber structure containing axons from the retina posterior to the optic chiasm representing their CNS location
- oral cavity
-
(also, buccal cavity) mouth
- orbicularis oculi
-
circular muscle that closes the eye
- orbicularis oris
-
circular muscle that moves the lips
- orbit
-
Bony socket that contains the eyeball and associated muscles.
- organ
-
Functionally distinct structure composed of two or more types of tissues.
- organ of Corti
-
structure in the cochlea in which hair cells transduce movements from sound waves into electrochemical signals
- organ system
-
Group of organs that work together to carry out a particular function.
- organelle
-
Any of several different types of membrane-enclosed specialized structures in the cell that perform specific functions for the cell.
- organic compound
-
Substance that contains both carbon and hydrogen.
- organism
-
Living being that has a cellular structure and that can independently perform all physiologic functions necessary for life.
- organization
-
The specific arrangement of atoms, molecules, cells, tissues and organs that define an organism.
- organogenesis
-
development of the rudimentary structures of all of an embryo’s organs from the germ layers
- origin
-
end of a skeletal muscle that is attached to another structure (usually a bone) in a fixed position
- oropharynx
-
portion of the pharynx flanked by the nasopharynx, oral cavity, and laryngopharynx that is a passageway for both air and food
- orthopedist
-
Doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.
- Osmoreceptor
-
receptor cell that senses differences in the concentrations of bodily fluids on the basis of osmotic pressure
- osmosis
-
Diffusion of water molecules down their concentration gradient across a selectively permeable membrane.
- osseous tissue
-
Bone tissue; a hard, dense connective tissue that forms the structural elements of the skeleton.
- ossicles
-
three small bones in the middle ear
- ossification
-
(Also, osteogenesis) bone formation.
- ossification center
-
Cluster of osteoblasts found in the early stages of intramembranous ossification.
- osteoblast
-
Cell responsible for forming new bone.
- osteocalcin
-
hormone produced by osteoblasts that stimulates the pancreas to increase insulin production
- osteoclast
-
Cell responsible for resorbing bone.
- osteocyte
-
Primary cell in mature bone; responsible for maintaining the matrix.
- osteogenic cell
-
Undifferentiated cell with high mitotic activity; the only bone cells that divide; they differentiate and develop into osteoblasts.
- osteoid
-
Uncalcified bone matrix secreted by osteoblasts.
- osteomalacia
-
softening of bones due to a lack of mineralization with calcium and phosphate; most often due to lack of vitamin D; in children, osteomalacia is termed rickets; not to be confused with osteoporosis
- osteon
-
(Also, Haversian system) basic structural unit of compact bone; made of concentric layers of calcified matrix.
- osteoporosis
-
Disease characterized by a decrease in bone mass; occurs when the rate of bone resorption exceeds the rate of bone formation, a common occurrence as the body ages.
- otolith
-
layer of calcium carbonate crystals located on top of the otolithic membrane
- otolithic membrane
-
gelatinous substance in the utricle and saccule of the inner ear that contains calcium carbonate crystals and into which the stereocilia of hair cells are embedded
- oval window
-
membrane at the base of the cochlea where the stapes attaches, marking the beginning of the scala vestibuli
- ovarian cycle
-
approximately 28-day cycle of changes in the ovary consisting of a follicular phase and a luteal phase
- ovarian vein
-
drains the ovary; the right ovarian vein leads to the inferior vena cava and the left ovarian vein leads to the left renal vein
- ovaries
-
female gonads that produce oocytes and sex steroid hormones (notably estrogen and progesterone)
- ovulation
-
release of a secondary oocyte and associated granulosa cells from an ovary
- ovum
-
haploid female gamete resulting from completion of meiosis II at fertilization
- oxidation
-
loss of an electron
- oxidation-reduction reaction
-
(also, redox reaction) pair of reactions in which an electron is passed from one molecule to another, oxidizing one and reducing the other
- oxidative phosphorylation
-
process that converts high-energy NADH and FADH2 into ATP
- oxidative stress
-
A phenomenon caused by an imbalance between production and accumulation of oxygen reactive species (ROS) in cells.
- oxygen (O)
-
Oxygen is the chemical element with the symbol O and atomic number 8. Oxygen is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas essential to living organisms.
- oxygen debt
-
amount of oxygen needed to compensate for ATP produced without oxygen during muscle contraction
- oxygen–hemoglobin dissociation curve
-
graph that describes the relationship of partial pressure to the binding and disassociation of oxygen to and from heme
- oxyhemoglobin
-
(Hb–O2) bound form of hemoglobin and oxygen
- oxytocin
-
hypothalamic hormone stored in the posterior pituitary gland and important in stimulating uterine contractions in labor, milk ejection during breastfeeding, and feelings of attachment (produced by males and females)
- P wave
-
component of the electrocardiogram that represents the depolarization of the atria
- pacemaker
-
cluster of specialized myocardial cells known as the SA node that initiates the sinus rhythm
- Pacinian corpuscle
-
(Also, lamellated corpuscle) receptor in the skin that responds to vibration.
- packed cell volume (PCV)
-
(also, hematocrit) volume percentage of erythrocytes present in a sample of centrifuged blood
- palatine bone
-
Paired bones that form the posterior quarter of the hard palate and a small area in floor of the orbit.
- palatine process
-
Medial projection from the maxilla bone that forms the anterior three quarters of the hard palate.
- palatine tonsil
-
one of the paired structures composed of lymphoid tissue located anterior to the uvula at the roof of isthmus of the fauces
- palatoglossus
-
muscle that originates on the soft palate to elevate the back of the tongue
- palmar
-
Of, relating to, or located in or on the palm of the hand.
- palmar arches
-
superficial and deep arches formed from anastomosis of the radial and ulnar arteries; supply blood to the hand and digital arteries
- palmar venous arches
-
drain the hand and digits, and feed into the radial and ulnar veins
- palmaris longus
-
muscle that provides weak flexion of the hand at the wrist
- palpebral conjunctiva
-
membrane attached to the inner surface of the eyelids that covers the anterior surface of the cornea
- PAMPs
-
pathogen associated molecular patterns that are recognized by PRRs of the innate immune system
- pancreas
-
organ with both exocrine and endocrine functions located posterior to the stomach that is important for digestion and the regulation of blood glucose
- pancreatic islets
-
specialized clusters of pancreatic cells that have endocrine functions; also called islets of Langerhans
- pancreatic juice
-
secretion of the pancreas containing digestive enzymes and bicarbonate
- pancreatic lipase
-
enzyme secreted by the pancreas that participates in lipid digestion
- pancreatic lipases
-
enzymes released from the pancreas that digest lipids in the diet
- pancreatic polypeptide cells
-
(formerly gamma cells or F cells) cells in pancreatic islets that secrete pancreatic polypeptide
- pandemic
-
an epidemic of a large area such as an entire country, continent, or planet
- papilla
-
for gustation, a bump-like projection on the surface of the tongue that contains taste buds
- papillary layer
-
Superficial layer of the dermis, made of loose, areolar connective tissue.
- papillary muscle
-
extension of the myocardium in the ventricles to which the chordae tendineae attach
- paracrine
-
chemical signal that elicits a response in neighboring cells; also called paracrine factor
- parallel
-
fascicles that extend in the same direction as the long axis of the muscle
- paranasal sinus
-
one of the cavities within the skull that is connected to the conchae that serve to warm and humidify incoming air, produce mucus, and lighten the weight of the skull; consists of frontal, maxillary, sphenoidal, and ethmoidal sinuses
- paranasal sinuses
-
Cavities within the skull that are connected to the conchae that serve to warm and humidify incoming air, produce mucus, and lighten the weight of the skull; consist of frontal, maxillary, sphenoidal, and ethmoidal sinuses.
- paraplegia
-
paralysis of the lower extremities
- parasympathetic division
-
division of the autonomic nervous system responsible for restful and digestive functions
- parasympathomimetic drug
-
drugs that enhance or mimic the function of the parasympathetic system
- parathyroid glands
-
small, round glands embedded in the posterior thyroid gland that produce parathyroid hormone (PTH)
- parathyroid hormone (PTH)
-
peptide hormone produced and secreted by the parathyroid glands in response to low blood calcium levels
- paraurethral glands
-
structures that open laterally to the female external urethral orifice and secrete mucus
- paravertebral ganglia
-
autonomic ganglia superior to the sympathetic chain ganglia
- parenchyma
-
Functional cells of a gland or organ, in contrast with the supportive or connective tissue of a gland or organ.
- paresis
-
partial paralysis or weakness of a limb
- paresthesia
-
an abnormal sensation, such as prickling, itching, etc.
- parietal bone
-
Paired bones that form the upper, lateral sides of the skull.
- parietal branches
-
(also, somatic branches) group of arterial branches of the thoracic aorta; includes those that supply blood to the thoracic cavity, vertebral column, and the superior surface of the diaphragm
- parietal cell
-
gastric gland cell that secretes hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor
- parietal lobe
-
region of the cerebral cortex directly beneath the parietal bone of the cranium
- parietal pericardium
-
The serous membrane lining the pericardial cavity.
- parietal peritoneum
-
The serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity.
- parietal pleura
-
The serous membrane lining the pleural cavities.
- partial pressure
-
force exerted by each gas in a mixture of gases
- parturition
-
childbirth
- passive immunity
-
transfer of immunity to a pathogen to an individual that lacks immunity to this pathogen
usually by the injection of antibodies - passive transport
-
Form of transport across the cell membrane that does not require input of cellular energy.
- patella
-
kneecap; the largest sesamoid bone of the body; articulates with the distal femur
- patellar ligament
-
extension of the quadriceps tendon below the patella
- patellar reflex
-
stretch reflex of the quadriceps muscle elicited by tapping the patellar ligament
- patellar surface
-
smooth groove located on the anterior side of the distal femur, between the medial and lateral condyles; site of articulation for the patella
- pathogen
-
a pathology-inducing agent such as certain bacteria, fungi or viruses
- pathogenicity
-
the extent or ability of a pathogen to cause disease
- pattern recognition receptor
-
leukocyte receptor that binds to specific cell wall components of different bacterial species
perforin molecule in NK cell and cytotoxic T cell granules that form pores in the membrane of a target cell - pectinate muscles
-
muscular ridges seen on the anterior surface of the right atrium
- pectineal line
-
narrow ridge located on the superior surface of the superior pubic ramus
- pectineus
-
muscle that abducts and flexes the femur at the hip
- pectoral girdle
-
shoulder girdle; the set of bones, consisting of the scapula and clavicle, which attaches each upper limb to the axial skeleton
- pectoralis major
-
thick, fan-shaped axial muscle that covers much of the superior thorax
- pectoralis minor
-
muscle that moves the scapula and assists in inhalation
- pedicels
-
finger-like projections of podocytes surrounding glomerular capillaries; interdigitate to form a filtration membrane
- pedicle
-
Portion of the vertebral arch that extends from the vertebral body to the transverse process.
- pelvic brim
-
pelvic inlet; the dividing line between the greater and lesser pelvic regions; formed by the superior margin of the pubic symphysis, the pectineal lines of each pubis, the arcuate lines of each ilium, and the sacral promontory
- pelvic cavity
-
The space bounded by the bones of the pelvis and pelvic girdle.
- pelvic diaphragm
-
muscular sheet that comprises the levator ani and the ischiococcygeus
- pelvic girdle
-
hip girdle; consists of a single hip bone, which attaches a lower limb to the sacrum of the axial skeleton
- pelvic inlet
-
pelvic brim
- pelvic outlet
-
inferior opening of the lesser pelvis; formed by the inferior margin of the pubic symphysis, right and left ischiopubic rami and sacrotuberous ligaments, and the tip of the coccyx
- pelvis
-
ring of bone consisting of the right and left hip bones, the sacrum, and the coccyx
- penis
-
male organ of sexual intercourse
- pennate
-
fascicles that are arranged differently based on their angles to the tendon
- pepsin
-
enzyme that begins to break down proteins in the stomach
- pepsinogen
-
inactive form of pepsin
- peptide bond
-
Covalent bond formed by dehydration synthesis between two amino acids.
- peptide hormone
-
hormone that is made from a relatively short polypeptide chain made out of amino acids
- perception
-
becoming aware of a stimulus
- perforating canal
-
(Also, Volkmann’s canal) channel that branches off from the central canal and houses vessels and nerves that extend to the periosteum and endosteum.
- perforin
-
an enzyme that forms holes in the plasma membrane, released by NK and Tc cells
- perfusion
-
distribution of blood into the capillaries so the tissues can be supplied
- pericardial cavity
-
The cavity encasing the heart.
- pericardial sac
-
(also, pericardium) membrane that separates the heart from other mediastinal structures; consists of two distinct, fused sublayers: the fibrous pericardium and the parietal pericardium
- pericarditis
-
inflammation of the pericardium
- pericardium
-
Sac that encloses the heart.
- perichondrium
-
Membrane that covers cartilage.
- perimetrium
-
outer epithelial layer of uterine wall
- perimysium
-
connective tissue that bundles skeletal muscle fibers into fascicles within a skeletal muscle
- perineum
-
diamond-shaped region between the pubic symphysis, coccyx, and ischial tuberosities
- perineurium
-
layer of connective tissue surrounding fascicles within a nerve
- periodic table of the elements
-
Arrangement of the elements in a table according to their atomic number; elements having similar properties because of their electron arrangements compose columns in the table, while elements having the same number of valence shells compose rows in the table.
- periosteal layer
-
a layer of periosteum that covers the inner surface of the skull
- periosteum
-
Fibrous membrane covering the outer surface of bone and continuous with ligaments.
- peripheral nerve
-
nerve in the periphery distal to a nerve plexus or spinal nerve
- peripheral nervous system
-
refers to parts of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord
- peripheral nervous system (PNS)
-
anatomical division of the nervous system that is largely outside the cranial and vertebral cavities, namely all parts except the brain and spinal cord
- peripheral neuropathy
-
damage to a peripheral nerve, spinal nerve or the nerve roots that results in sensory and or motor impairments to the region innervated by the nerve
- peripheral protein
-
Membrane-associated protein that does not span the width of the lipid bilayer, but is attached peripherally to integral proteins, membrane lipids, or other components of the membrane.
- peristalsis
-
muscular contractions and relaxations that propel food through the GI tract
- peritoneum
-
Serous membrane that lines the abdominopelvic cavity and covers the organs found there.
- peritubular capillaries
-
second capillary bed of the renal portal system; surround the proximal and distal convoluted tubules; associated with the vasa recta
- peroxisome
-
Membrane-bound organelle that contains enzymes primarily responsible for detoxifying harmful substances.
- perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone
-
Downward, midline extension of the ethmoid bone that forms the superior portion of the nasal septum.
- petrosal sinus
-
enlarged vein that receives blood from the cavernous sinus and flows into the internal
jugular vein - petrous ridge
-
Petrous portion of the temporal bone that forms a large, triangular ridge in the floor of the cranial cavity, separating the middle and posterior cranial fossae; houses the middle and inner ear structures.
- Peyer’s patches
-
lymphoid follicles associated with distal regions of the small intestine, part of the MALT
- pH
-
Negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion (H+) concentration of a solution.
- phagocyte
-
a cell capable of phagocytosis, namely neutrophils, macrophages and dendritic cells
- phagocytosis
-
Endocytosis of large particles.
- phantom limb pain
-
erroneous perception of pain as originating from an amputated limb
- phantom limb sensation
-
erroneous perception of stimuli as originating from an amputated limb
- pharyngeal tonsil
-
structure composed of lymphoid tissue located in the nasopharynx
- pharynx
-
region of the conducting zone that forms a tube of skeletal muscle lined with respiratory epithelium; located between the nasal conchae and the esophagus and trachea
- phasic sensory receptor
-
sensory receptors that adapt rapidly and more completely
- phenotype
-
physical or biochemical manifestation of the genotype; expression of the alleles
- phosphodiesterase (PDE)
-
cytosolic enzyme that deactivates and degrades cAMP
- phospholipid
-
A lipid compound in which a phosphate group is combined with a diglyceride.
- phospholipid bilayer
-
Membrane made out of two layers of phospholipids.
- phosphorylation
-
Addition of one or more phosphate groups to an organic compound.
- phosphorylation cascade
-
signaling event in which multiple protein kinases phosphorylate the next protein substrate by transferring a phosphate group from ATP to the protein
- photon
-
individual “packet” of light
- Photoreceptor
-
receptor cell specialized to respond to light stimuli
- phrenic nerve
-
systemic nerve from the cervical plexus that innervates the diaphragm
- phrenic vein
-
drains the diaphragm; the right phrenic vein flows into the inferior vena cava and the left phrenic vein leads to the left renal vein
- Physiology
-
science that studies the chemistry, biochemistry, and physics of the body’s functions
- pia mater
-
thin, innermost membrane of the meninges that directly covers the surface of the CNS
- pineal gland
-
endocrine gland that secretes melatonin, which is important in regulating the sleep-wake cycle
- pinealocyte
-
cell of the pineal gland that produces and secretes the hormone melatonin
- pinocytosis
-
Endocytosis of fluid.
- piriformis
-
muscle deep to the gluteus maximus on the lateral surface of the thigh that laterally rotates the femur at the hip
- pisiform
-
from the lateral side, the fourth of the four proximal carpal bones; articulates with the anterior surface of the triquetrum
- pituitary gland
-
bean-sized organ suspended from the hypothalamus that produces, stores, and secretes hormones in response to hypothalamic stimulation (also called hypophysis)
- placenta
-
organ that forms during pregnancy to nourish the developing fetus; also regulates waste and gas exchange between mother and fetus
- placenta previa
-
low placement of fetus within uterus causes placenta to partially or completely cover the opening of the cervix as it grows
- plane
-
Imaginary two-dimensional surface that passes through the body.
- plantar
-
Of or relating to the sole of the foot.
- plantar arch
-
formed from the anastomosis of the dorsalis pedis artery and medial and plantar arteries; branches supply the distal portions of the foot and digits
- plantar reflex
-
cutaneous reflex elicited by scraping the plantar surface of the foot from heel to toe
- plantar veins
-
drain the foot and lead to the plantar venous arch
- plasma
-
in blood, the liquid extracellular matrix composed mostly of water that circulates the formed elements and dissolved materials throughout the cardiovascular system
- plasma cell
-
differentiated B cell that is actively secreting antibody
- plasma membrane
-
See definition for cell membrane.
- plasma osmolality
-
ratio of solutes to a volume of solvent in the plasma; plasma osmolality reflects a person’s state of hydration
- plasmin
-
blood protein active in fibrinolysis
- platelet plug
-
accumulation and adhesion of platelets at the site of blood vessel injury
- platelets
-
(also, thrombocytes) one of the formed elements of blood that consists of cell fragments broken off from megakaryocytes
- pleura
-
Serous membrane that lines the pleural cavity and covers the lungs.
- pleural cavity
-
space between the visceral and parietal pleurae
- pleural fluid
-
substance that acts as a lubricant for the visceral and parietal layers of the pleura during the movement of breathing
- plexus
-
network of nerves or nervous tissue
- pluripotent stem cell
-
stem cell that derives from totipotent stem cells and is capable of differentiating into many, but not all, cell types
- PMN
-
polymorphonuclear cells, aka granulocytes
- pneumotaxic center
-
network of neurons within the pons that inhibit the activity of the neurons in the dorsal respiratory group; controls rate of breathing
- podocytes
-
cells forming finger-like processes; form the visceral layer of Bowman’s capsule; pedicels of the podocytes interdigitate to form a filtration membrane
- polar body
-
smaller cell produced during the process of meiosis in oogenesis
- polar molecule
-
Molecule with regions that have opposite charges resulting from uneven numbers of electrons in the nuclei of the atoms participating in the covalent bond.
- polarized
-
in relation to the electrical properties of a neuron, the state whereby the inner membrane is negatively charged compared to the outer
- pollex
-
(also, thumb) digit 1 of the hand
- polycythemia
-
elevated level of hemoglobin, whether adaptive or pathological
- polymorphonuclear
-
having a lobed nucleus, as seen in some leukocytes
- polypeptide
-
Chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.
- polysaccharide
-
Compound consisting of more than two carbohydrate monomers bonded by dehydration synthesis via glycosidic bonds.
- polysaccharides
-
complex carbohydrates made up of many monosaccharides
- polyspermy
-
penetration of an oocyte by more than one sperm
- polysynaptic reflex
-
reflex arc in which at least one interneuron lies between the afferent sensory neuron and the efferent motor neuron
- polyuria
-
urine production in excess of 2.5 L/day; may be caused by diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, or excessive use of diuretics
- pons
-
part of the brainstem, a structure that links the brain to the spinal cord
- popliteal artery
-
continuation of the femoral artery posterior to the knee; branches into the anterior and posterior tibial arteries
- popliteal fossa
-
diamond-shaped space at the back of the knee
- popliteal vein
-
continuation of the femoral vein behind the knee; drains the region behind the knee and forms from the fusion of the fibular and anterior and posterior tibial veins
- positive chemotaxis
-
process in which a cell is attracted to move in the direction of chemical stimuli
- positive feedback
-
Mechanism that intensifies a change in the body’s physiological condition in response to a stimulus.
- positive selection
-
selection of thymocytes within the thymus that interact with self, but not non-self, MHC molecules
- postabsorptive state
-
also called the fasting state; the metabolic state occurring after digestion when food is no longer the body’s source of energy and it must rely on stored glycogen
- posterior
-
Describes the back or direction toward the back of the body; also referred to as dorsal.
- posterior (dorsal) horn
-
gray matter region of the spinal cord in which sensory input arrives
- posterior (dorsal) sacral foramen
-
One of the series of paired openings located on the posterior (dorsal) side of the sacrum.
- posterior arch
-
Posterior portion of the ring-like C1 (atlas) vertebra.
- posterior cavity
-
Posterior body cavity that houses the brain and spinal cord; also referred to as dorsal cavity.
- posterior compartment of the thigh
-
region that includes muscles that flex the leg and extend the thigh
- posterior cranial fossa
-
Deepest and most posterior cranial fossa; extends from the petrous ridge to the occipital bone.
- posterior cruciate ligament
-
intracapsular ligament of the knee; extends from the posterior, superior surface of the tibia to the inner aspect of the medial condyle of the femur; prevents anterior displacement of the femur when the knee is flexed and weight bearing
- posterior inferior iliac spine
-
small, bony projection located at the inferior margin of the auricular surface on the posterior ilium
- posterior interventricular artery
-
(also, posterior descending artery) branch of the right coronary artery that runs along the posterior portion of the interventricular sulcus toward the apex of the heart and gives rise to branches that supply the interventricular septum and portions of both ventricles
- posterior interventricular sulcus
-
sulcus located between the left and right ventricles on the posterior surface of the heart
- posterior longitudinal ligament
-
Ligament that runs the length of the vertebral column, uniting the posterior sides of the vertebral bodies.
- posterior pituitary
-
posterior portion of the pituitary gland made up of neural tissue (also called neurohypophysis)
- posterior superior iliac spine
-
rounded, posterior end of the iliac crest
- posterior tibial artery
-
branch from the popliteal artery that gives rise to the fibular or peroneal artery; supplies blood to the posterior tibial region
- posterior tibial vein
-
forms from the dorsal venous arch; drains the area near the posterior surface of the tibia and leads to the popliteal vein
- postganglionic fiber
-
axon from a ganglionic neuron in the autonomic nervous system that projects to and synapses with the target effector; sometimes referred to as a postganglionic neuron
- postsynaptic neuron
-
the neuron with receptors that bind neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft
- postsynaptic potential (PSP)
-
graded potential in the postsynaptic membrane caused by the binding of neurotransmitter to ionotropic receptors
- potential energy
-
Stored energy matter possesses because of the positioning or structure of its components.
- Power stroke
-
action of myosin pulling actin inward (toward the M line)
- precapillary sphincters
-
circular rings of smooth muscle that surround the entrance to a capillary and regulate blood flow into that capillary
- preganglionic fiber
-
axon from a central neuron in the autonomic nervous system that projects to and synapses with a ganglionic neuron; sometimes referred to as a preganglionic neuron
- preload
-
(also, end diastolic volume) amount of blood in the ventricles at the end of atrial systole just prior to ventricular contraction
- prepuce
-
(also, foreskin) flap of skin that forms a collar around, and thus protects and lubricates, the glans penis
- presynaptic neuron
-
the neuron that secretes neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft
- prevertebral ganglia
-
autonomic ganglia that are anterior to the vertebral column and functionally related to the sympathetic chain ganglia
- primary adaptive response
-
immune system’s response to the first exposure to a pathogen
- primary curve
-
Anteriorly concave curvatures of the thoracic and sacrococcygeal regions that are retained from the original fetal curvature of the vertebral column.
- primary follicles
-
ovarian follicles with a primary oocyte and one layer of cuboidal granulosa cells
- primary lymphoid organ
-
site where lymphocytes mature and proliferate; red bone marrow and
thymus gland - primary motor cortex
-
location of upper motor neurons in the precentral gyrus of the frontal lobe
- primary ossification center
-
Region, deep in the periosteal collar, where bone development starts during endochondral ossification.
- primary somatosensory cortex
-
postcentral gyrus of the parietal lobe that initially receives somatosensory input from an ascending pathway from the thalamus and begins the processing that will result in conscious perception of that sensory modality
- primary vesicle
-
initial enlargements of the anterior neural tube during embryonic development that develop into the forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain
- prime mover
-
(also, agonist) principle muscle involved in an action
- primitive streak
-
indentation along the dorsal surface of the epiblast through which cells migrate to form the endoderm and mesoderm during gastrulation
- primordial follicles
-
least developed ovarian follicles that consist of a single oocyte and a single layer of flat (squamous) granulosa cells
- principal cell
-
found in collecting ducts and possess channels for the recovery or loss of sodium and potassium; under the control of aldosterone; also have aquaporin channels under ADH control to regulate recovery of water
- prion
-
a protein folded into an abnormal shape that causes normal proteins to also misfold
- process
-
in cells, an extension of a cell body; in the case of neurons, this includes the axon and dendrites
- product
-
One or more substances produced by a chemical reaction.
- progesterone
-
predominantly female sex hormone important in regulating the female reproductive cycle and the maintenance of pregnancy
- prognosis
-
forecasting the probable outcome of disease including chances of recovery
- projection
-
Bone markings where part of the surface sticks out above the rest of the surface, where tendons and ligaments attach.
- prolactin
-
pituitary hormone that establishes and maintains the supply of breast milk; also important for the mobilization of maternal micronutrients for breast milk
- prolactin (PRL)
-
anterior pituitary hormone that promotes development of the mammary glands and the production of breast milk
- proliferative phase
-
phase of the menstrual cycle in which the endometrium proliferates
- proliferative zone
-
Region of the epiphyseal plate that makes new chondrocytes to replace those that die at the diaphyseal end of the plate and contributes to longitudinal growth of the epiphyseal plate.
- prometaphase
-
The phase of mitosis following prophase and preceding metaphase, characterized by disappearance of nuclear envelope and the appearance of mitotic spindle and kinetochores at the centromeres.
- promoter
-
Region of DNA that signals transcription to begin at that site within the gene.
- pronator teres
-
pronator that originates on the humerus and inserts on the radius
- prone
-
Face down.
- propagation
-
conduction of an action potential along the length of an axon
- prophase
-
First stage of mitosis (and meiosis), characterized by breakdown of the nuclear envelope and condensing of the chromatin to form chromosomes.
- proprioception
-
sense of position and movement of the body
- proprioceptor
-
receptor cell that senses changes in the position and kinesthetic aspects of the body
- propulsion
-
voluntary process of swallowing and the involuntary process of peristalsis that moves food through the digestive tract
- prosencephalon
-
primary vesicle of the embryonic brain that develops into the forebrain, which includes the cerebrum and diencephalon
- prostaglandin
-
Lipid compound derived from fatty acid chains and important in regulating several body processes.
- prostaglandins
-
lipids associated with inflammation, bronchodilation and many other effects
- prostate gland
-
doughnut-shaped gland at the base of the bladder surrounding the urethra and contributing fluid to semen during ejaculation
- prostatic urethra
-
portion of male urethra that passes through the prostate gland
- proteasomes
-
Nonmembranous organelle that recycle faulty proteins.
- protein
-
Class of organic compounds that are composed of many amino acids linked together by peptide bonds.
- protein hormone
-
hormone that is made from a longer polypeptide chain as compared to relatively shorter peptide hormones
- protein kinase
-
enzyme that initiates a phosphorylation cascade upon activation
- proteolysis
-
process of breaking proteins into smaller peptides
- proteome
-
Full complement of proteins produced by a cell (determined by the cell’s specific gene expression).
- proton
-
heavy subatomic particle having a positive charge and found in the atom’s nucleus
- proximal
-
Describes a position nearer to the point of attachment or the trunk of the body.
- proximal tibiofibular joint
-
articulation between the head of the fibula and the inferior aspect of the lateral condyle of the tibia
- PRRs (pattern recognition receptors)
-
receptors on cells of the innate immune system that bind PAMPs and DAMPs
- pseudostratified columnar epithelium
-
Tissue that consists of a single layer of irregularly shaped and sized cells that give the appearance of multiple layers; found in ducts of certain glands and the upper respiratory tract.
- psoas major
-
muscle that, along with the iliacus, makes up the iliopsoas
- psychoneuroimmunology
-
study of the connections between the immune, nervous, and endocrine
systems - psychophysiological disorders
-
diseases whose symptoms are brought about or worsened by stress and emotional factors
- pterion
-
H-shaped suture junction region that unites the frontal, parietal, temporal, and sphenoid bones on the lateral side of the skull.
- puberty
-
life stage during which a male or female adolescent becomes anatomically and physiologically capable of reproduction
- pubic arch
-
bony structure formed by the pubic symphysis, and the bodies and inferior pubic rami of the right and left pubic bones
- pubic body
-
enlarged, medial portion of the pubis region of the hip bone
- pubic symphysis
-
joint formed by the articulation between the pubic bodies of the right and left hip bones
- pubic tubercle
-
small bump located on the superior aspect of the pubic body
- pubis
-
anterior portion of the hip bone
- pubococcygeus
-
muscle that makes up the levator ani along with the iliococcygeus
- pulmonary arteries
-
left and right branches of the pulmonary trunk that carry deoxygenated blood from the heart to each of the lungs
- pulmonary artery
-
artery that arises from the pulmonary trunk and carries deoxygenated, arterial blood to the
alveoli - pulmonary capillaries
-
capillaries surrounding the alveoli of the lungs where gas exchange occurs: carbon dioxide exits the blood and oxygen enters
- pulmonary circuit
-
blood flow to and from the lungs
- Pulmonary circulation
-
movement of blood from the right side of the heart to the lungs, and back to the left side of the heart
- pulmonary plexus
-
network of autonomic nervous system fibers found near the hilum of the lung
- pulmonary surfactant
-
substance composed of phospholipids and proteins that reduces the surface tension of the alveoli; made by type II alveolar cells
- pulmonary trunk
-
large arterial vessel that carries blood ejected from the right ventricle; divides into the left and right pulmonary arteries
- pulmonary veins
-
veins that carry highly oxygenated blood into the left atrium, which pumps the blood into the left ventricle, which in turn pumps oxygenated blood into the aorta and to the many branches of the systemic circuit
- Pulmonary ventilation
-
exchange of gases between the lungs and the atmosphere; breathing
- pulp cavity
-
deepest portion of a tooth, containing nerve endings and blood vessels
- pulse
-
alternating expansion and recoil of an artery as blood moves through the vessel; an indicator of heart rate
- pulse pressure
-
difference between the systolic and diastolic pressures
- Punnett square
-
grid used to display all possible combinations of alleles transmitted by parents to offspring and predict the mathematical probability of offspring inheriting a given genotype
- pupil
-
open hole at the center of the iris that light passes through into the eye
- purine
-
Nitrogen-containing base with a double ring structure; adenine and guanine.
- Purkinje fibers
-
specialized myocardial conduction fibers that arise from the bundle branches and spread the impulse to the myocardial contraction fibers of the ventricles
- putamen
-
nucleus deep in the cerebrum that is part of the basal nuclei; along with the caudate, it is part of the striatum
- pyloric sphincter
-
sphincter that controls stomach emptying
- pylorus
-
lower, funnel-shaped part of the stomach that is continuous with the duodenum
- pyramidal decussation
-
location at which corticospinal tract fibers cross the midline and segregate into the anterior and lateral divisions of the pathway
- pyramidal tract
-
the lateral and anterior corticospinal tracts
- pyramids
-
fiber bundles in the medulla that appear triangular and contain motor fibers, the majority of which are part of the corticospinal tract
- pyrexia
-
abnormally high body temperature, aka fever
- pyrimidine
-
Nitrogen-containing base with a single ring structure; cytosine, thiamine, and uracil.
- pyrogens
-
chemicals that signal the hypothalamus to increase body temperature
- pyruvate
-
three-carbon end product of glycolysis and starting material that is converted into acetyl CoA that enters the Krebs cycle
- pyruvic acid
-
product of glycolysis that can be used in aerobic respiration or converted to lactic acid
- pyuria
-
presence of leukocytes and other components of pus in the urine
- QRS complex
-
component of the electrocardiogram that represents the depolarization of the ventricles and includes, as a component, the repolarization of the atria
- quadriceps tendon
-
(also, patellar tendon) tendon common to all four quadriceps muscles, inserts into the patella
- quadriplegia
-
paralysis of all four limbs
- quickening
-
fetal movements that are strong enough to be felt by the mother
- quiet breathing
-
(also, eupnea) mode of breathing that occurs at rest and does not require the cognitive thought of the individual
- radial artery
-
formed at the bifurcation of the brachial artery; parallels the radius; gives off smaller branches until it reaches the carpal region where it fuses with the ulnar artery to form the superficial and deep palmar arches; supplies blood to the lower arm and carpal region
- radial fossa
-
small depression located on the anterior humerus above the capitulum; this space receives the head of the radius when the elbow is maximally flexed
- radial nerve
-
systemic nerve of the arm, the distal component of which is located near the radial bone
- radial notch of the ulna
-
small, smooth area on the lateral side of the proximal ulna; articulates with the head of the radius as part of the proximal radioulnar joint
- radial tuberosity
-
oval-shaped, roughened protuberance located on the medial side of the proximal radius
- radiation
-
transfer of heat via infrared waves
- radioactive isotope
-
Unstable, heavy isotope that gives off subatomic particles, or electromagnetic energy, as it decays; also called radioisotopes.
- radiocarpal joint
-
wrist joint, located between the forearm and hand regions of the upper limb; articulation formed proximally by the distal end of the radius and the fibrocartilaginous pad that unites the distal radius and ulna bone, and distally by the scaphoid, lunate, and triquetrum carpal bones
- radioisotopes
-
unstable, heavy isotope that gives off subatomic particles, or electromagnetic energy, as it decays; also called radioactive isotopes
- radius
-
bone located on the lateral side of the forearm
- ramus of the mandible
-
Vertical portion of the mandible.
- Reabsorption
-
in the cardiovascular system, the movement of material from the interstitial fluid into the capillaries
- reactant
-
One or more substances that enter into the reaction.
- reactive oxygen species (ROS)
-
A group of extremely reactive peroxides and oxygen-containing radicals that may contribute to cellular damage.
- receptor
-
Protein molecule that contains a binding site for another specific molecule (called a ligand).
- receptor cell
-
cell that transduces environmental stimuli into neural signals
- receptor-mediated endocytosis
-
Endocytosis of ligands attached to membrane-bound receptors.
- recessive
-
describes a trait that is only expressed in homozygous form and is masked in heterozygous form
- reciprocal innervation
-
the simultaneous inhibition of all antagonist muscles during stimulation of any muscle
- recombination-activating genes (RAGs)
-
the genes responsible for recombining segments and randomly inserting nucleotides into the variable regions of T and B cell receptor genes
- rectal valve
-
one of three transverse folds in the rectum where feces is separated from flatus
- rectum
-
part of the large intestine between the sigmoid colon and anal canal
- rectus
-
straight
- rectus abdominis
-
long, linear muscle that extends along the middle of the trunk
- rectus femoris
-
quadricep muscle on the anterior aspect of the thigh
- rectus sheaths
-
tissue that makes up the linea alba
- red blood cells (RBCs)
-
(also, erythrocytes) one of the formed elements of blood that transports oxygen
- red marrow
-
Connective tissue in the interior cavity of a bone where hematopoiesis takes place.
- red pulp
-
areas within the spleen where old, damaged RBCs are broken down
- reduction
-
gaining of an electron
- referred pain
-
when pain is perceived at a location other than the site of the painful stimulus
- reflex
-
automatic and consistent response to a stimulus
- reflex arc
-
reflex pathway consisting of receptor, sensory afferent neuron, integration or reflex center, motor efferent neuron and effector
- refractory period
-
time after the initiation of an action potential when another action potential cannot be generated
- regulation
-
The process of maintaining a physiological equilibrium, see homeostasis.
- regulatory T cells (Treg, suppressor T cells)
-
class of CD4 T cells that regulates other T cell responses
- relative refractory period
-
time during the refractory period when a new action potential can only be initiated by a stronger stimulus than the current action potential because voltage-gated K+ channels are not closed
- relaxation phase
-
period after twitch contraction when tension decreases
- relaxin
-
hormone produced by the placenta and ovaries that softens the fibrocartilage of the pubic symphysis, allowing it and the pelvic girdle to widen for childbirth
- releasing hormone
-
hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that targets endocrine cells in the anterior pituitary, which secretes a different hormone in response
- remodeling
-
Process by which osteoclasts resorb old or damaged bone at the same time as and on the same surface where osteoblasts form new bone to replace that which is resorbed.
- renal artery
-
branch of the abdominal aorta; supplies each kidney
- renal columns
-
extensions of the renal cortex into the renal medulla; separates the renal pyramids; contains blood vessels and connective tissues
- renal corpuscle
-
consists of the glomerulus and Bowman’s capsule
- renal cortex
-
outer part of kidney containing all of the nephrons; some nephrons have loops of Henle extending into the medulla
- renal fat pad
-
adipose tissue between the renal fascia and the renal capsule that provides protective cushioning to the kidney
- renal hilum
-
recessed medial area of the kidney through which the renal artery, renal vein, ureters, lymphatics, and nerves pass
- renal papillae
-
medullary area of the renal pyramids where collecting ducts empty urine into the minor calyces
- renal pyramids
-
six to eight cone-shaped tissues in the medulla of the kidney containing collecting ducts and the loops of Henle of juxtamedullary nephrons
- renal vein
-
largest vein entering the inferior vena cava; drains the kidneys and leads to the inferior vena cava
- renin
-
enzyme produced by juxtaglomerular cells in response to decreased blood pressure or sympathetic nervous activity; catalyzes the conversion of angiotensinogen into angiotensin I
- renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system
-
endocrine control system involving hormones such as angiotensin II and aldosterone that work together to increase blood pressure and volume
- repetition
-
The practice of going through learning materials several times as part of the studying process.
- repolarization
-
it results from the outflux of positively charged K+
- repolarized
-
return of the membrane potential to RMP after depolarization
- reproduction
-
Process by which new organisms are generated.
- reserve zone
-
Region of the epiphyseal plate that anchors the plate to the osseous tissue of the epiphysis.
- Residual Volume (RV)
-
amount of air that remains in the lungs after maximum exhalation
- resistance
-
the property of electricity whereby the current is impeded in some way
- respiration
-
A combination of four processes including pulmonary ventilation (movement of air into and out of lungs), external respiration (gas exchange at the lung tissue), transportation of respiratory gases (in the blood), and internal respiration (gas exchange at the body tissues)
- respiratory acidosis
-
condition wherein an excess of carbonic acid or CO2 causes the blood to be overly acidic
- respiratory alkalosis
-
condition wherein a deficiency of carbonic acid/CO2 levels causes the blood to be overly alkaline
- respiratory bronchiole
-
specific type of bronchiole that leads to alveolar sacs
- respiratory cycle
-
one sequence of inspiration and expiration
- respiratory epithelium
-
ciliated lining of much of the conducting zone that is specialized to remove debris and pathogens, and produce mucus
- respiratory membrane
-
alveolar and capillary wall together, which form an air-blood barrier that facilitates the simple diffusion of gases
- respiratory pump
-
increase in the volume of the thorax during inhalation that decreases air pressure, enabling venous blood to flow into the thoracic region, then exhalation increases pressure, moving blood into the atria
- respiratory rate
-
total number of breaths taken each minute
- respiratory volume
-
varying amounts of air within the lung at a given time
- respiratory zone
-
includes structures of the respiratory system that are directly involved in gas exchange
- responsiveness
-
Ability of an organisms or a system to adjust to changes in conditions.
- rest and digest
-
set of functions associated with the parasympathetic system that lead to restful actions and digestion
- resting membrane potential (RMP)
-
the difference in voltage across a cell membrane under steady state conditions, typically -70 mV
- reticular fiber
-
Fine fibrous protein, made of collagen subunits, which cross-link to form supporting “nets” within connective tissue.
- reticular formation
-
diffuse region of gray matter throughout the brain stem that regulates sleep, wakefulness, and states of consciousness
- reticular lamina
-
Matrix containing collagen and elastin secreted by connective tissue; a component of the basement membrane.
- reticular layer
-
Deeper layer of the dermis; it has a reticulated appearance due to the presence of abundant collagen and elastin fibers.
- reticular tissue
-
Type of loose connective tissue that provides a supportive framework to soft organs, such as lymphatic tissue, spleen, and the liver.
- reticulocyte
-
immature erythrocyte that may still contain fragments of organelles
- reticulospinal tract
-
extrapyramidal connections between the brain stem and spinal cord that modulate movement, contribute to posture, and regulate muscle tone
- retina
-
nervous tissue of the eye at which phototransduction takes place
- retinal
-
cofactor in an opsin molecule that undergoes a biochemical change when struck by a photon (pronounced with a stress on the last syllable)
- retinal ganglion cell
-
neuron of the retina that projects along the second cranial nerve
- retrograde amnesia
-
amnesia where a person can't recall memories that were formed before the event that caused the amnesia
- retrograde transport
-
the transport of substances from axon terminals toward neuron soma
- retroperitoneal
-
located posterior to the peritoneum
- reuptake
-
a process of regulating neurotransmitter effect by transporting it back to the presynaptic neuron from the synaptic cleft
- Reverberating circuit
-
serving rhythmic functions, these neural circuits continue until there is an inhibitory signal
- Rh blood group
-
blood-type classification based on the presence or absence of the antigen Rh on the erythrocyte membrane surface
- rheumatic fever
-
an infection with Streptococcus resulting in inflammation heart, skin, joints or brain tissue
- rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
-
is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation, pain, stiffness, and loss of function of the joints
- rhodopsin
-
photopigment molecule found in the rod photoreceptors
- rhombencephalon
-
primary vesicle of the embryonic brain that develops into the hindbrain, which includes the pons, cerebellum, and medulla
- rhomboid major
-
muscle that attaches the vertebral border of the scapula to the spinous process of the thoracic vertebrae
- rhomboid minor
-
muscle that attaches the vertebral border of the scapula to the spinous process of the thoracic vertebrae
- ribonucleic acid (RNA)
-
Ribose-containing nucleotide that helps manifest the genetic code as protein.
- ribosomal RNA (rRNA)
-
RNA that makes up the subunits of a ribosome.
- ribosome
-
Cellular organelle that functions in protein synthesis.
- ribs
-
Thin, curved bones of the chest wall.
- rickets
-
Disease in children caused by vitamin D deficiency, which leads to the weakening of bones.
- right atrioventricular valve
-
(also, tricuspid valve) valve located between the right atrium and ventricle; consists of three flaps of tissue
- right colic flexure
-
(also, hepatic flexure) point, at the inferior surface of the liver, where the ascending colon turns abruptly to the left
- right gastric artery
-
branch of the common hepatic artery; supplies blood to the stomach
- right lymphatic duct
-
drains lymph fluid from the upper right side of body into the right subclavian
vein - right marginal artery
-
a branch from the right coronary artery that supplies the lateral wall of the right ventricle
- RNA polymerase
-
Enzyme that unwinds DNA and then adds new nucleotides to a growing strand of RNA for the transcription phase of protein synthesis.
- Romberg test
-
clinical test of balance requiring vestibular, proprioception and visual stimuli to maintain posture
- root
-
region of the external nose between the eyebrows
- rotator cuff
-
strong connective tissue structure formed by the fusion of four rotator cuff muscle tendons to the articular capsule of the shoulder joint; surrounds and supports superior, anterior, lateral, and posterior sides of the humeral head
- Rough ER (RER)
-
Endoplasmic reticulum with its membrane dotted with ribosomes.
- rouleaux
-
collection of red blood cells resembling stacked plates
- round window
-
membrane that marks the end of the scala tympani
- rubrospinal tract
-
descending motor control pathway, originating in the red nucleus, that mediates control of the limbs on the basis of cerebellar processing
- ruga
-
fold of alimentary canal mucosa and submucosa in the empty stomach and other organs
- rugae
-
(of the vagina) folds of skin in the vagina that allow it to stretch during intercourse and childbirth
- S phase
-
Stage of the cell cycle during which DNA replication occurs.
- saccharolytic fermentation
-
anaerobic decomposition of carbohydrates
- saccule
-
structure of the inner ear responsible for transducing linear acceleration in the vertical plane
- sacral canal
-
Bony tunnel that runs through the sacrum.
- sacral foramina
-
Series of paired openings for nerve exit located on both the anterior (ventral) and posterior (dorsal) aspects of the sacrum.
- sacral hiatus
-
Inferior opening and termination of the sacral canal.
- sacral plexus
-
nerve plexus associated with the lower lumbar and sacral spinal nerves
- sacral promontory
-
Anterior lip of the base (superior end) of the sacrum.
- sacrococcygeal curve
-
Anteriorly concave curvature formed by the sacrum and coccyx; a primary curve of the vertebral column.
- sacroiliac joint
-
joint formed by the articulation between the auricular surfaces of the sacrum and ilium
- sacrum
-
Single bone located near the inferior end of the adult vertebral column that is formed by the fusion of five sacral vertebrae; forms the posterior portion of the pelvis.
- sagittal plane
-
Two-dimensional, vertical plane that divides the body or organ into right and left sides.
- sagittal suture
-
Joint that unites the right and left parietal bones at the midline along the top of the skull.
- saliva
-
aqueous solution of proteins and ions secreted into the mouth by the salivary glands
- salivary amylase
-
digestive enzyme in saliva that acts on starch
- salivary gland
-
an exocrine gland that secretes a digestive fluid called saliva
- Saltatory conduction
-
quick propagation of the action potential along a myelinated axon owing to the insulting effects of myelin necessitating voltage-gated Na+ channels only at the nodes of Ranvier
- sarcolemma
-
plasma membrane of a skeletal muscle fiber
- sarcomere
-
longitudinally, repeating functional unit of skeletal muscle, with all of the contractile and associated proteins involved in contraction
- sarcopenia
-
sarcopenia
- sarcoplasm
-
cytoplasm of a muscle cell
- sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR)
-
specialized smooth endoplasmic reticulum, which stores, releases, and retrieves Ca++
- sartorius
-
band-like muscle that flexes, abducts, and laterally rotates the leg at the hip
- Satellite cell
-
PNS glial cell type that provides support for neuron soma
- scalene muscles
-
flex, laterally flex, and rotate the head; contribute to deep inhalation
- scaphoid
-
from the lateral side, the first of the four proximal carpal bones; articulates with the radius proximally, the trapezoid, trapezium, and capitate distally, and the lunate medially
- scapula
-
shoulder blade bone located on the posterior side of the shoulder
- scar
-
Collagen-rich skin formed after the process of wound healing that is different from normal skin.
- Schwann cell
-
(aka neurolemmocyte)
glial cell type that myelinates axons in the PNS - sciatic nerve
-
systemic nerve from the sacral plexus that is a combination of the tibial and fibular nerves and extends across the hip joint and gluteal region into the upper posterior leg
- sciatica
-
painful condition resulting from inflammation or compression of the sciatic nerve or any of the spinal nerves that contribute to it
- scientific method
-
The process of scientific discovery whereby observations lead to the formation of hypotheses, experiments are designed and performed, and data are compared to null hypotheses for drawing conclusions.
- sclera
-
white of the eye
- sclerotome
-
Medial portion of a somite consisting of mesenchyme tissue that will give rise to bone, cartilage, and fibrous connective tissues.
- scoliosis
-
Abnormal lateral curvature of the vertebral column.
- scrotum
-
external pouch of skin and muscle that houses the testes
- sebaceous gland
-
Type of oil gland found in the dermis all over the body and helps to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair by secreting sebum.
- sebum
-
Oily substance that is composed of a mixture of lipids that lubricates the skin and hair.
- second messenger
-
molecule that initiates a signaling cascade in response to hormone binding on a cell membrane receptor and activation of a G protein
- second-degree burn
-
Partial-thickness burn that injures the epidermis and a portion of the dermis.
- secondary adaptive response
-
immune response observed upon re-exposure to a pathogen, which is
stronger and faster than a primary response - secondary curve
-
Posteriorly concave curvatures of the cervical and lumbar regions of the vertebral column that develop after the time of birth.
- secondary follicles
-
ovarian follicles with a primary oocyte and multiple layers of granulosa cells
- Secondary lymphoid organ
-
sites where lymphocytes mount adaptive immune responses; examples include lymph nodes and spleen
- secondary ossification center
-
Region of bone development in the epiphyses.
- secondary sex characteristics
-
physical characteristics that are influenced by sex steroid hormones and have supporting roles in reproductive function
- secondary vesicle
-
five vesicles that develop from primary vesicles, continuing the process of differentiation of the embryonic brain
- secretin
-
peptide hormone that stimulates the release of bicarbonate from the pancreas
- secretion
-
occurs throughout the nephron tubules to the collecting ducts. Secretion is the process where materials such as wastes, drugs, and excess ions are released from the blood into the filtrate within the tubules
- secretory phase
-
phase of the menstrual cycle in which the endometrium secretes a nutrient-rich fluid in preparation for implantation of an embryo
- section
-
In anatomy, a single flat surface of a three-dimensional structure that has been cut through.
- segmental arteries
-
division of the renal artery
- segmentation
-
alternating contractions and relaxations of non-adjacent segments of the intestine that move food forward and backward, breaking it apart and mixing it with digestive juices
- selective permeability
-
Feature of any barrier that allows certain substances to cross but excludes others.
- self-antigen
-
molecules produced by and that do not induce adaptive immune responses of an individual in the absence of autoimmune disease
- self-quizzing
-
The practice of testing oneself as part of the studying process.
- sella turcica
-
Elevated area of sphenoid bone located at midline of the middle cranial fossa.
- semen
-
ejaculatory fluid composed of sperm and secretions from the seminal vesicles, prostate, and bulbourethral glands
- semicircular canals
-
structures within the inner ear responsible for transducing rotational movement information
- semilunar valves
-
valves located at the base of the pulmonary trunk and at the base of the aorta
- semimembranosus
-
hamstring muscle
- seminal vesicle
-
gland that produces seminal fluid, which contributes to semen
- seminiferous tubules
-
tube structures within the testes where spermatogenesis occurs
- semitendinosus
-
hamstring muscle
- sensation
-
nervous system function that receives information from the environment and translates it into the electrical signals of nervous tissue
- sensor
-
(Also, receptor) reports a monitored physiological value to the control center.
- sensory adaptation
-
the gradual decrease in responsiveness of a receptor to a constant stimulus
- sensory input / sensation
-
nervous system function that receives information from the environment and translates it into the electrical signals of nervous tissue
- sensory neuron
-
neurons that generate action potentials in response to specific stimuli, sending signals towards the CNS
- sensory transduction
-
process of changing an environmental stimulus into the electrochemical signals of the nervous system
- septal cartilage
-
Flat cartilage structure that forms the anterior portion of the nasal septum.
- septum
-
(plural = septa) walls or partitions that divide the heart into chambers
- septum pellucidum
-
thin membrane located at the midline of the brain between the two cerebral hemispheres
- seroconversion
-
clearance of pathogen in the serum and the simultaneous rise of serum antibody
- serosa
-
Membrane that covers organs and reduces friction; also referred to as serous membrane.
- serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
-
a drug prescribed to serotonin deficient patients to potentiate the neurotransmitter effects by reducing reuptake
- serous fluid
-
A lubricating fluid produced by and between folds of serous membrane.
- serous gland
-
Group of cells within the serous membrane that secrete a lubricating substance onto the surface.
- serous membrane
-
Membrane that covers organs and reduces friction; also referred to as serosa.
- serratus anterior
-
large and flat muscle that originates on the ribs and inserts onto the scapula
- Sertoli cells
-
(also, nurse cells and sustentacular cells) cells that support germ cells through the process of spermatogenesis
- serum
-
blood plasma that does not contain clotting factors
- sesamoid bone
-
Small, round bone embedded in a tendon; protects the tendon from compressive forces.
- set point
-
Ideal value for a physiological parameter; the level or small range within which a physiological parameter such as blood pressure is stable and optimally healthful, that is, within its parameters of homeostasis.
- sex chromosomes
-
pair of chromosomes involved in sex determination; in males, the XY chromosomes; in females, the XX chromosomes
- shaft of the femur
-
cylindrically shaped region that forms the central portion of the femur
- shaft of the fibula
-
elongated, slender portion located between the expanded ends of the fibula
- shaft of the humerus
-
narrow, elongated, central region of the humerus
- shaft of the radius
-
narrow, elongated, central region of the radius
- shaft of the ulna
-
narrow, elongated, central region of the ulna
- short bone
-
Cube-shaped bone that is approximately equal in length, width, and thickness; provides limited motion.
- short reflex
-
reflex arc that does not include any components of the central nervous system
- shoulder dystocia
-
condition where a baby’s shoulders get stuck during a vaginal delivery
- shunt
-
circulatory shortcut that diverts the flow of blood from one region to another
- sickle cell anemia
-
(also, sickle cell disease) inherited blood disorder in which hemoglobin molecules are malformed, leading to the breakdown of RBCs that take on a characteristic sickle shape
- sigmoid colon
-
end portion of the colon, which terminates at the rectum
- sigmoid sinuses
-
dural sinuses that drain directly into the jugular veins
- simple columnar epithelium
-
Tissue that consists of a single layer of column-like cells; promotes secretion and absorption in tissues and organs.
- simple cuboidal epithelium
-
Tissue that consists of a single layer of cube-shaped cells; promotes secretion and absorption in ducts and tubules.
- simple squamous epithelium
-
Tissue that consists of a single layer of flat scale-like cells; promotes diffusion and filtration across surface.
- sinoatrial (SA) node
-
known as the pacemaker, a specialized clump of myocardial conducting cells located in the superior portion of the right atrium that has the highest inherent rate of depolarization that then spreads throughout the heart
- sinus rhythm
-
normal contractile pattern of the heart
- sister chromatid
-
One of a pair of identical chromosomes, formed during DNA replication.
- skeletal muscle
-
Usually attached to bone, under voluntary control, each cell is a fiber that is multinucleated and striated.
- skeletal muscle pump
-
effect on increasing blood pressure within veins by compression of the vessel caused by the contraction of nearby skeletal muscle
- skeletal system
-
Organ system composed of bones and cartilage that provides for movement, support, and protection.
- skeleton
-
Bones of the body.
- skull
-
Bony structure that forms the head, face, and jaws, and protects the brain; consists of 22 bones.
- Slow oxidative (SO)
-
muscle fiber that primarily uses aerobic respiration
- small cardiac vein
-
parallels the right coronary artery and drains blood from the posterior surfaces of the right atrium and ventricle; drains into the coronary sinus, middle cardiac vein, or right atrium
- small intestine
-
section of the alimentary canal where most digestion and absorption occurs
- small saphenous vein
-
located on the lateral surface of the leg; drains blood from the superficial regions of the lower leg and foot, and leads to the popliteal vein
- smooth ER (SER)
-
Endoplasmic reticulum without ribosomes associated with its membrane.
- smooth muscle
-
Under involuntary control, moves internal organs, cells contain a single nucleus, are spindle-shaped, and do not appear striated; each cell is a fiber.
- sodium-potassium pump
-
(Also, Na+/K+ ATP-ase) membrane-embedded protein pump that uses ATP to move Na+ out of a cell and K+ into the cell.
- soft palate
-
posterior region of the bottom portion of the nasal cavity that consists of skeletal muscle
- soleus
-
wide, flat muscle deep to the gastrocnemius
- solution
-
Homogeneous liquid mixture in which a solute is dissolved into molecules within a solvent.
- Somatic motor neuron
-
transmits efferent nervous signals to skeletal muscles for body movement and posture
- somatic nervous system (SNS)
-
functional division of the nervous system that is concerned with conscious perception, voluntary movement, and skeletal muscle reflexes
- somatic reflex
-
reflexes with effectors consisting of skeletal muscle
- Somatosensation
-
general senses related to the body, usually thought of as the senses of touch, which would include pain, temperature, and proprioception
- somatosensory neuron
-
transmit afferent nervous signals regarding the body’s external environment, orientation and movement
- somatostatin
-
inhibitory hormone that inhibits the release multiple hormones, including growth hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and prolactin (also called growth hormone-inhibiting hormone)
- somite
-
One of the paired, repeating blocks of tissue located on either side of the notochord in the early embryo.
- Spastic paralysis
-
paralysis resulting from damage to upper motor neurons in which muscle tension is maintained and may spasm
- Spatial summation
-
combination of graded potentials across the neuronal cell membrane caused by signals from separate presynaptic elements that add up to initiate an action potential
- special sense
-
any sensory system associated with a specific organ structure, namely smell, taste, sight, hearing, and balance
- specific gravity
-
weight of a liquid compared to pure water, which has a specific gravity of 1.0; any solute added to water will increase its specific gravity
- sperm
-
(also, spermatozoon (plural spermatozoa)) male gamete
- spermatic cord
-
bundle of nerves and blood vessels that supplies the testes; contains ductus deferens
- spermatid
-
immature sperm cells produced by meiosis II of secondary spermatocytes
- spermatocyte
-
cell that results from the division of spermatogonium and undergoes meiosis I and meiosis II to form spermatids
- spermatogenesis
-
formation of new sperm, occurs in the seminiferous tubules of the testes
- spermatogonia
-
(singular = spermatogonium) diploid precursor cells that become sperm
- spermiogenesis
-
transformation of spermatids to spermatozoa during spermatogenesis
- sphenoid bone
-
Unpaired bone that forms the central base of skull.
- sphenoid sinus
-
Air-filled space located within the sphenoid bone; most posterior of the paranasal sinuses.
- sphincter urethrovaginalis
-
deep perineal muscle in women
- sphygmomanometer
-
blood pressure cuff attached to a device that measures blood pressure
- spina bifida
-
caudal neural tube defect resulting in exposure of the spinal cord
- spinal cord
-
organ of the CNS found within the vertebral cavity and connected with the PNS through spinal nerves; mediates reflex behaviors; relays nervous signals to and from the brain
- spinal nerve
-
one of 31 nerves connected to the spinal cord
- spinal reflex
-
reflex carried by spinal nerves with an integration center within the spinal cord
- spinal segment
-
a region of the spinal cord that supplies dorsal and ventral roots for one spinal nerve
- Spinalis group
-
medially placed muscles of the erector spinae
- spinothalamic tract
-
ascending tract of the spinal cord associated with pain and temperature sensations
- spinous process
-
Unpaired bony process that extends posteriorly from the vertebral arch of a vertebra.
- spiral ganglion
-
location of neuronal cell bodies that transmit auditory information along the eighth cranial nerve
- splenic artery
-
branch of the celiac trunk; supplies blood to the spleen
- splenius
-
posterior neck muscles; includes the splenius capitis and splenius cervicis
- splenius capitis
-
neck muscle that inserts into the head region
- splenius cervicis
-
neck muscle that inserts into the cervical region
- spliceosome
-
Complex of enzymes that serves to splice out the introns of a pre-mRNA transcript.
- splicing
-
The process of modifying a pre-mRNA transcript by removing certain, typically non-coding, regions.
- spongy bone
-
(Also, cancellous bone) trabeculated osseous tissue that supports shifts in weight distribution.
- spongy urethra
-
longest portion of the male urethra that passes through the penis and exits at the tip of the penis
- spontaneous depolarization
-
(also, prepotential depolarization) the mechanism that accounts for the autorhythmic property of cardiac muscle; the membrane potential increases as sodium ions diffuse through the always-open sodium ion channels and causes the electrical potential to rise
- squamous cell carcinoma
-
Type of skin cancer that originates from the stratum spinosum of the epidermis.
- squamous suture
-
Joint that unites the parietal bone to the squamous portion of the temporal bone on the lateral side of the skull.
- stage of exhaustion
-
stage three of the general adaptation syndrome; the body’s long-term response to stress mediated by the hormones of the adrenal cortex
- stage of resistance
-
stage two of the general adaptation syndrome; the body’s continued response to stress after stage one diminishes
- stapes
-
(also, stirrup) ossicle of the middle ear that is attached to the inner ear
- stercobilins
-
Stercobilin is a tetrapyrrolic bile pigment and is one end-product of heme catabolism.
- sternal angle
-
Junction line between manubrium and body of the sternum and the site for attachment of the second rib to the sternum.
- sternal end of the clavicle
-
medial end of the clavicle that articulates with the manubrium of the sternum
- sternoclavicular joint
-
articulation between the manubrium of the sternum and the sternal end of the clavicle; forms the only bony attachment between the pectoral girdle of the upper limb and the axial skeleton
- sternocleidomastoid
-
major muscle that laterally flexes and rotates the head
- sternohyoid
-
muscle that depresses the hyoid bone
- sternothyroid
-
muscle that depresses the larynx’s thyroid cartilage
- sternum
-
Flattened bone located at the center of the anterior chest.
- steroid
-
(Also, sterol) lipid compound composed of four hydrocarbon rings bonded to a variety of other atoms and molecules.
- steroid hormone
-
hormone that is originally made from cholesterol and tends to be lipid-soluble and dissolves poorly in water
- stimulus
-
anything with the potential to evoke a reaction
- stomach
-
alimentary canal organ that contributes to chemical and mechanical digestion of food from the esophagus before releasing it, as chyme, to the small intestine
- straight sinus
-
dural sinus that drains blood from the deep center of the brain to collect with the other sinuses
- stratified columnar epithelium
-
Tissue that consists of two or more layers of column-like cells, contains glands and is found in some ducts.
- stratified cuboidal epithelium
-
Tissue that consists of two or more layers of cube-shaped cells, found in some ducts.
- stratified squamous epithelium
-
Tissue that consists of multiple layers of cells with the most apical being flat scale-like cells; protects surfaces from abrasion.
- stratum basale
-
Deepest layer of the epidermis, made of epidermal stem cells.
- stratum corneum
-
Most superficial layer of the epidermis.
- stratum granulosum
-
Layer of the epidermis superficial to the stratum spinosum.
- stratum lucidum
-
Layer of the epidermis between the stratum granulosum and stratum corneum, found only in thick skin covering the palms, soles of the feet, and digits.
- stratum spinosum
-
Layer of the epidermis superficial to the stratum basale, characterized by the presence of desmosomes.
- stretch mark
-
Mark formed on the skin due to a sudden growth spurt and expansion of the dermis beyond its elastic limits.
- stretch reflex
-
response to activation of the muscle spindle stretch receptor that causes contraction of the muscle to maintain a constant length
- striation
-
Alignment of parallel actin and myosin filaments which form a banded pattern.
- striatum
-
the caudate and putamen collectively, as part of the basal nuclei, which receive input from the cerebral cortex
- stroke volume (SV)
-
amount of blood pumped by each ventricle per contraction; also, the difference between EDV and ESV
- styloglossus
-
muscle that originates on the styloid bone, and allows upward and backward motion of the tongue
- stylohyoid
-
muscle that elevates the hyoid bone posteriorly
- styloid process
-
Downward projecting, elongated bony process located on the inferior aspect of the skull.
- styloid process of the radius
-
pointed projection located on the lateral end of the distal radius
- styloid process of the ulna
-
short, bony projection located on the medial end of the distal ulna
- stylomastoid foramen
-
Opening located on inferior skull, between the styloid process and mastoid process.
- subarachnoid space
-
space between the arachnoid mater and pia mater that contains CSF and the fibrous connections of the arachnoid trabeculae
- subclavian artery
-
right subclavian arises from the brachiocephalic artery/trunk, whereas the left subclavian artery arises from the aortic arch; gives rise to the internal thoracic, vertebral, and thyrocervical arteries; supplies blood to the arms, chest, shoulders, back, and central nervous system
- subclavian vein
-
located deep in the thoracic cavity; becomes the axillary vein as it enters the axillary region; drains the axillary and smaller local veins near the scapular region; leads to the brachiocephalic vein
- submucosa
-
layer of dense connective tissue in the alimentary canal wall that binds the overlying mucosa to the underlying muscularis
- submucosal plexus
-
(plexus of Meissner) nerve supply that regulates activity of glands and smooth muscle
- subpubic angle
-
inverted V-shape formed by the convergence of the right and left ischiopubic rami; this angle is greater than 80 degrees in females and less than 70 degrees in males
- subscapular fossa
-
broad depression located on the anterior (deep) surface of the scapula
- subscapularis
-
muscle that originates on the anterior scapula and medially rotates the arm
- substantia nigra pars compacta
-
nuclei within the basal nuclei that release dopamine to modulate the function of the striatum; part of the motor pathway
- substrate
-
Reactant in an enzymatic reaction.
- subthreshold
-
graded potentials that fail to induce an action potential
- sucrase
-
brush border enzyme that breaks down sucrose into glucose and fructose
- sudoriferous gland
-
Sweat gland.
- sulcus
-
(plural = sulci) fat-filled groove visible on the surface of the heart; coronary vessels are also located in these areas
- summate
-
to add together, as in the cumulative change in postsynaptic potentials toward reaching threshold in the membrane, either across a span of the membrane or over a certain amount of time
- superficial
-
Describes a position nearer to the surface of the body.
- superior
-
Describes a position above or higher than another part of the body proper; also referred to as cranial.
- superior angle of the scapula
-
corner of the scapula between the superior and medial borders of the scapula
- superior articular process
-
Bony process that extends upward from the vertebral arch of a vertebra that articulates with the inferior articular process of the next higher vertebra.
- superior articular process of the sacrum
-
Paired processes that extend upward from the sacrum to articulate (join) with the inferior articular processes from the L5 vertebra.
- superior border of the scapula
-
superior margin of the scapula
- superior cervical ganglion
-
one of the paravertebral ganglia of the sympathetic system that projects to the head
- superior colliculus
-
structure in the midbrain that combines visual, auditory, and somatosensory input to coordinate spatial and topographic representations of the three sensory systems
- Superior mesenteric artery
-
branch of the abdominal aorta; supplies blood to the small intestine (duodenum, jejunum, and ileum), the pancreas, and a majority of the large intestine
- superior nasal concha
-
Smallest and most superiorly located of the nasal conchae; formed by the ethmoid bone.
- superior nuchal line
-
Paired bony lines on the posterior skull that extend laterally from the external occipital protuberance.
- superior oblique
-
extraocular muscle responsible for medial rotation of the eye
- superior orbital fissure
-
Irregularly shaped opening between the middle cranial fossa and the posterior orbit.
- superior pubic ramus
-
narrow segment of bone that passes laterally from the pubic body to join the ilium
- superior rectus
-
extraocular muscle responsible for looking up
- superior sagittal sinus
-
dural sinus that runs along the top of the longitudinal fissure and drains blood from the majority of the outer cerebrum
- superior vena cava
-
large systemic vein that returns blood to the heart from the superior portion of the body
- supinator
-
muscle that moves the palm and forearm anteriorly
- supine
-
Face up.
- supportive connective tissue
-
Type of connective tissue that provides strength to the body and protects soft tissue.
- suprachiasmatic nucleus
-
hypothalamic target of the retina that helps to establish the circadian rhythm of the body on the basis of the presence or absence of daylight
- suprahyoid muscles
-
neck muscles that are superior to the hyoid bone
- supraorbital foramen
-
Opening located on anterior skull, at the superior margin of the orbit.
- supraorbital margin
-
Superior margin of the orbit.
- suprascapular notch
-
small notch located along the superior border of the scapula, medial to the coracoid process
- supraspinatus
-
muscle that abducts the arm
- supraspinous fossa
-
narrow depression located on the posterior scapula, superior to the spine
- supraspinous ligament
-
Ligament that interconnects the spinous processes of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae.
- surgical neck
-
region of the humerus where the expanded, proximal end joins with the narrower shaft
- suspension
-
Liquid mixture in which particles distributed in the liquid settle out over time.
- suture
-
Junction line at which adjacent bones of the skull are united by fibrous connective tissue.
- sympathetic chain ganglia
-
autonomic ganglia in a chain along the anterolateral aspect of the vertebral column that are responsible for contributing to homeostatic mechanisms of the autonomic nervous system
- sympathetic division
-
division of the autonomic nervous system associated with the fight-or-flight response
- sympatholytic drug
-
drug that interrupts, or “lyses,” the function of the sympathetic system
- sympathomedullary (SAM) pathway
-
pathway by which nerve impulses travel along sympathetic nerve fibers from the hypothalamus and eventually to the adrenal medulla
- sympathomimetic drug
-
drug that enhances or mimics the function of the sympathetic system
- symphysis
-
type of cartilaginous joint where the bones are joined by fibrocartilage
- synapse
-
narrow junction across which a chemical signal passes from neuron to the next, initiating a new electrical signal in the target cell
- synaptic cleft
-
space between a nerve (axon) terminal and a motor end-plate
- synaptic end bulb
-
(aka synaptic bouton)
the swollen end of axon terminals - synaptic end terminal
-
(aka synaptic terminal)
the end of an axon, opposite the soma, where neurotransmitter molecules are released into the synaptic cleft - synarthrosis
-
immobile or nearly immobile joint
- synchondrosis
-
type of cartilaginous joint where the bones are joined by hyaline cartilage
- syncytiotrophoblast
-
superficial cells of the trophoblast that fuse to form a multinucleated body that digests endometrial cells to firmly secure the blastocyst to the uterine wall
- syndesmosis
-
type of fibrous joint in which two separated, parallel bones are connected by an interosseous membrane
- synergist
-
muscle whose contraction helps a prime mover in an action
- synostosis
-
site at which adjacent bones or bony components have fused together
- synovial fluid
-
thick, lubricating fluid that fills the interior of a synovial joint
- synovial joint
-
joint at which the articulating surfaces of the bones are located within a joint cavity formed by an articular capsule
- synovial membrane
-
Connective tissue membrane that lines the cavities of freely movable joints, producing synovial fluid for lubrication.
- synthesis reaction
-
Type of anabolic reaction in which two or more atoms or molecules bond, resulting in the formation of a larger molecule.
- systemic circuit
-
blood flow to and from virtually all of the tissues of the body
- Systemic circulation
-
movement of blood from the left side of the heart to the systemic cells of the body and then back to the right side of the heart
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
-
an autoimmune disease causing inflammation, joint aches, fever, and characteristic skin rashes and swelling
- systole
-
period of time when the heart muscle is contracting
- systolic pressure
-
larger number recorded when measuring arterial blood pressure; represents the maximum value following ventricular contraction
- T cell
-
a cell type of the adaptive immune system, the two main subtypes being TH and Tc
- T cell-dependent antigen
-
antigen that binds to B cells, which requires signals from T cells to make antibody
- T cell-independent antigen
-
binds to B cells, which do not require signals from T cells to make antibody
- T lymphocytes
-
(also, T cells) lymphocytes that provide cellular-level immunity by physically attacking foreign or diseased cells
- T wave
-
component of the electrocardiogram that represents the repolarization of the ventricles
- T-tubule
-
projection of the sarcolemma into the interior of the cell
- tactile (Meissner’s) corpuscles
-
encapsulated nerve endings located in the dermal papilla that detect discriminative touch and vibration
- tactile epithelial cells (Merkel cells)
-
cells located in the stratum basale of the epidermis that detect light touch
- talus
-
tarsal bone that articulates superiorly with the tibia and fibula at the ankle joint; also articulates inferiorly with the calcaneus bone and anteriorly with the navicular bone
- target effector
-
organ, tissue, or gland that will respond to the control of an autonomic or somatic or endocrine signal
- tarsal bone
-
one of the seven bones that make up the posterior foot; includes the calcaneus, talus, navicular, cuboid, medial cuneiform, intermediate cuneiform, and lateral cuneiform bones
- taste buds
-
structures within a papilla on the tongue that contain gustatory receptor cells
- tectorial membrane
-
component of the organ of Corti that lays over the hair cells, into which the stereocilia are embedded
- tectospinal tract
-
extrapyramidal connections between the superior colliculus and spinal cord
- tectum
-
region of the midbrain, thought of as the roof of the cerebral aqueduct, which is subdivided into the inferior and superior colliculi
- telencephalon
-
secondary vesicle of the embryonic brain that develops into the cerebrum
- telogen
-
Resting phase of the hair growth cycle initiated with catagen and terminated by the beginning of a new anagen phase of hair growth.
- telophase
-
Final stage of mitosis (and meiosis), preceding cytokinesis, characterized by the formation of two new daughter nuclei.
- temporal bone
-
Paired bones that form the lateral, inferior portions of the skull, with squamous, mastoid, and petrous portions.
- temporal fossa
-
Shallow space on the lateral side of the skull, above the level of the zygomatic arch.
- temporal lobe
-
region of the cerebral cortex directly beneath the temporal bone of the cranium
- temporal process of the zygomatic bone
-
Short extension from the zygomatic bone that forms the anterior portion of the zygomatic arch.
- Temporal summation
-
combination of graded potentials at the same location on a neuron resulting in a strong signal from one input
- temporalis
-
muscle that retracts the mandible
- temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
-
articulation between the condyle of the mandible and the mandibular fossa and articular tubercle of the temporal bone of the skull; allows for depression/elevation (opening/closing of mouth), protraction/retraction, and side-to-side motions of the mandible
- tendinous intersections
-
three transverse bands of collagen fibers that divide the rectus abdominis into segments
- tendon
-
dense connective tissue structure that anchors a muscle to bone
- tendon organ (Golgi tendon organ)
-
encapsulated receptor within muscle tendons that detect tension
- tendon reflex (Golgi tendon reflex)
-
inhibitory reflex that uses the tendon organ as a receptor to prevent damage to muscle or tendon by stimulating muscle relaxation as a response to excessive force
- tensor fascia lata
-
muscle that flexes and abducts the thigh
- teres major
-
muscle that extends the arm and assists in adduction and medial rotation of it
- teres minor
-
muscle that laterally rotates and extends the arm
- terminal electron acceptor
-
oxygen, the recipient of the free hydrogen at the end of the electron transport chain
- terminal ganglia
-
ganglia of the parasympathetic division of the autonomic system, which are located near or within the target effector, the latter also known as intramural ganglia
- tertiary follicles
-
(also, antral follicles) ovarian follicles with a primary or secondary oocyte, multiple layers of granulosa cells, and a fully formed antrum
- testes
-
(singular = testis) male gonads
- testicular vein
-
drains the testes and forms part of the spermatic cord; the right testicular vein empties directly into the inferior vena cava and the left testicular vein empties into the left renal vein
- testosterone
-
steroid hormone secreted by the testes and important in the maturation of sperm cells, growth and development of the reproductive system, and the development of secondary sex characteristics
- tetanus
-
a continuous fused contraction
- Th1
-
cells that secrete cytokines that enhance the activity of Tc
- Th2
-
cells that secrete cytokines that induce B cells to differentiate into plasma cells
- thalamus
-
major region of the diencephalon that is responsible for relaying information between the cerebrum and the hindbrain, spinal cord, and periphery
- thalassemia
-
inherited blood disorder in which maturation of RBCs does not proceed normally, leading to abnormal formation of hemoglobin and the destruction of RBCs
- theca cells
-
estrogen-producing cells in a maturing ovarian follicle
- thenar
-
group of muscles on the lateral aspect of the palm
- thermoneutral
-
external temperature at which the body does not expend any energy for thermoregulation, about 84 °F
- thermoreceptor
-
sensory receptor specialized for temperature stimuli
- thermoregulation
-
process of regulating the temperature of the body
- thick filament
-
the thick myosin strands and their multiple heads projecting from the center of the sarcomere toward, but not all to way to, the Z-discs
- thigh
-
portion of the lower limb located between the hip and knee joints
- thin filament
-
thin strands of actin and its troponin-tropomyosin complex projecting from the Z-discs toward the center of the sarcomere
- third ventricle
-
portion of the ventricular system that is in the region of the diencephalon
- third-degree burn
-
Burn that penetrates and destroys the full thickness of the skin (epidermis and dermis).
- thoracic
-
Relating to the superior ventral cavity; the thoracic cavity.
- thoracic aorta
-
portion of the descending aorta superior to the aortic hiatus
- thoracic cage
-
Consists of 12 pairs of ribs and sternum.
- thoracic cavity
-
Division of the anterior (ventral) cavity that houses the heart, lungs, esophagus, and trachea.
- thoracic curve
-
Anteriorly concave curvature of the thoracic vertebral column region; a primary curve of the vertebral column.
- thoracic duct
-
large duct that drains lymph from the lower limbs, left thorax, left upper limb, and the left
side of the head - thoracic vertebrae
-
Twelve vertebrae numbered as T1–T12 that are located in the thoracic region (upper back) of the vertebral column.
- thoracic wall compliance
-
ability of the thoracic wall to stretch while under pressure
- thoroughfare channel
-
continuation of the metarteriole that enables blood to bypass a capillary bed and flow directly into a venule, creating a vascular shunt
- threshold
-
membrane voltage at which an action potential is initiated
- thrombin
-
enzyme essential for the final steps in formation of a fibrin clot
- thrombocytes
-
platelets, one of the formed elements of blood that consists of cell fragments broken off from megakaryocytes
- thrombocytopenia
-
condition in which there are too few platelets, resulting in abnormal bleeding (hemophilia)
- thrombocytosis
-
condition in which there are too many platelets, resulting in abnormal clotting (thrombosis)
- thrombopoietin
-
hormone produced by the liver that stimulates platelet production
- thrombosis
-
excessive clot formation
- thrombus
-
aggregation of fibrin, platelets, and erythrocytes in an intact artery or vein
- thymosins
-
hormones produced and secreted by the thymus that play an important role in the development and differentiation of T cells
- thymus
-
organ that is involved in the development and maturation of T-cells and is particularly active during infancy and childhood
- thyrohyoid
-
muscle that depresses the hyoid bone and elevates the larynx’s thyroid cartilage
- thyroid cartilage
-
largest piece of cartilage that makes up the larynx and consists of two lamine
- thyroid gland
-
large endocrine gland responsible for the synthesis of thyroid hormones
- thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
-
anterior pituitary hormone that triggers secretion of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland (also called thyrotropin)
- thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)
-
hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete thyroid-stimulating hormone
- thyroxine
-
(also, tetraiodothyronine, T4) amino acid–derived thyroid hormone that is more abundant but less potent than T3 and often converted to T3 by target cells
- tibia
-
shin bone; the large, weight-bearing bone located on the medial side of the leg
- tibial collateral ligament
-
extrinsic ligament of knee joint that spans from the medial epicondyle of the femur to the medial tibia; resists hyperextension and rotation of extended knee
- tibial tuberosity
-
elevated area on the anterior surface of the proximal tibia
- tibialis anterior
-
muscle located on the lateral surface of the tibia
- tibialis posterior
-
muscle that plantar flexes and inverts the foot
- Tidal volume (TV)
-
amount of air that normally enters the lungs during quiet breathing
- tight junction
-
Forms an impermeable barrier between cells.
- tissue
-
An aggregate of similar cells and cell products forming a definite kind of structural material.
- tissue factor
-
protein thromboplastin, which initiates the extrinsic pathway when released in response to tissue damage
- tissue membrane
-
Thin layer or sheet of cells that covers the outside of the body, organs, and internal cavities.
- tongue
-
accessory digestive organ of the mouth, the bulk of which is composed of skeletal muscle
- tonic sensory receptors
-
sensory receptors that adapt slowly and only partially
- tonsils
-
lymphoid nodules associated with the nasopharynx
- total lung capacity (TLC)
-
total amount of air that can be held in the lungs; sum of TV, ERV, IRV, and RV
- total pressure
-
sum of all the partial pressures of a gaseous mixture
- totipotent
-
Embryonic cells that have the ability to differentiate into any type of cell and organ in the body.
- totipotent stem cell
-
embryonic stem cell that is capable of differentiating into any and all cells of the body; enabling the full development of an organism
- trabeculae
-
(Singular = trabecula) spikes or sections of the lattice-like matrix in spongy bone.
- trabeculae carneae
-
ridges of muscle covered by endocardium located in the ventricles
- trachea
-
tube composed of cartilaginous rings and supporting tissue that connects the lung bronchi and the larynx; provides a route for air to enter and exit the lung
- trachealis muscle
-
smooth muscle located in the fibroelastic membrane of the trachea
- tract
-
bundle of axons in the central nervous system having the same function and point of origin
- trait
-
variation of an expressed characteristic
- transamination
-
transfer of an amine group from one molecule to another as a way to turn nitrogen waste into ammonia so that it can enter the urea cycle
- transcription
-
Process of producing an mRNA molecule that is complementary to a particular gene of DNA.
- transduction
-
process of changing an environmental stimulus into the electrochemical signals of the nervous system
- transfer RNA (tRNA)
-
Molecules of RNA that serve to bring amino acids to a growing polypeptide strand and properly place them into the sequence.
- transferrin
-
plasma protein that binds reversibly to iron and distributes it throughout the body
- transformation
-
To change from one form to another; as a study strategy this refers to the practice of transforming the information in narrative form to a diagram, flow chart or other illustration.
- transitional epithelium
-
Form of stratified epithelium found in the urinary tract, characterized by an apical layer of cells that change shape in response to the presence of urine.
- translation
-
Process of producing a protein from the nucleotide sequence code of an mRNA transcript.
- transverse colon
-
part of the colon between the ascending colon and the descending colon
- transverse foramen
-
Opening found only in the transverse processes of cervical vertebrae.
- transverse plane
-
Two-dimensional, horizontal plane that divides the body or organ into superior and inferior portions.
- transverse process
-
Paired bony processes that extends laterally from the vertebral arch of a vertebra.
- transverse sinuses
-
dural sinuses that drain along either side of the occipital–cerebellar space
- transversus abdominis
-
deep layer of the abdomen that has fascicles arranged transversely around the abdomen
- trapezium
-
from the lateral side, the first of the four distal carpal bones; articulates with the scaphoid proximally, the first and second metacarpals distally, and the trapezoid medially
- trapezius
-
muscle that stabilizes the upper part of the back
- trapezoid
-
from the lateral side, the second of the four distal carpal bones; articulates with the scaphoid proximally, the second metacarpal distally, the trapezium laterally, and the capitate medially
- tri
-
three
- tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA)
-
also called the Krebs cycle or the citric acid cycle; converts pyruvate into CO2 and high-energy FADH2, NADH, and ATP molecules
- triceps brachii
-
three-headed muscle that extends the forearm
- tricuspid valve
-
term used most often in clinical settings for the right atrioventricular valve
- trigeminal nerve
-
fifth cranial nerve; responsible for cutaneous sensation of the face and contraction of the muscles of mastication
- triglyceride
-
Lipid compound composed of a glycerol molecule bonded with three fatty acid chains.
- triglycerides
-
lipids, or fats, consisting of three fatty acid chains attached to a glycerol backbone
- trigone
-
area at the base of the bladder marked by the two ureters in the posterior–lateral aspect and the urethral orifice in the anterior aspect oriented like points on a triangle
- triiodothyronine
-
(also, T3) amino acid–derived thyroid hormone that is less abundant but more potent than T4
- trimester
-
division of the duration of a pregnancy into three 3-month terms
- triquetrum
-
from the lateral side, the third of the four proximal carpal bones; articulates with the lunate laterally, the hamate distally, and has a facet for the pisiform
- trochlea
-
pulley-shaped region located medially at the distal end of the humerus; articulates at the elbow with the trochlear notch of the ulna
- trochlear nerve
-
fourth cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of one of the extraocular muscles
- trochlear notch
-
large, C-shaped depression located on the anterior side of the proximal ulna; articulates at the elbow with the trochlea of the humerus
- trophic hormone
-
hormones that affect the growth, function, or nutrition of other endocrine cells
- trophoblast
-
fluid-filled shell of squamous cells destined to become the chorionic villi, placenta, and associated fetal membranes
- tropic hormone
-
hormone that stimulates or inhibits the function of other endocrine glands
- tropomyosin
-
regulatory protein that covers myosin-binding sites to prevent actin from binding to myosin
- troponin
-
regulatory protein that binds to actin, tropomyosin, and calcium
- true labor
-
regular contractions that immediately precede childbirth; they do not abate with hydration or rest, and they become more frequent and powerful with time
- true ribs
-
Vertebrosternal ribs 1–7 that attach via their costal cartilage directly to the sternum.
- true vocal cord
-
one of the pair of folded, white membranes that have a free inner edge that oscillates as air passes through to produce sound
- trunk
-
large vessel that gives rise to smaller vessels
- trypsin
-
pancreatic enzyme that activates chymotrypsin and digests protein
- tubercle of the rib
-
Small bump on the posterior side of a rib for articulation with the transverse process of a thoracic vertebra.
- tubulin
-
Protein that polymerizes into long chains or filaments that form microtubules.
- tubuloglomerular feedback
-
feedback mechanism involving the JGA; macula densa cells monitor Na+ concentration in the terminal portion of the ascending loop of Henle and act to cause vasoconstriction or vasodilation of afferent and efferent arterioles to alter GFR
- tunica externa
-
(also, tunica adventitia) outermost layer or tunic of a vessel (except capillaries)
- tunica intima
-
(also, tunica interna) innermost lining or tunic of a vessel
- tunica media
-
middle layer or tunic of a vessel (except capillaries)
- twitch
-
single contraction produced by one action potential
- two-point discrimination
-
the ability to discern two separate points touching the skin as being separate
- tympanic membrane
-
ear drum
- type A fibers
-
nerve fibers with large diameters and a high degree of myelination and therefore conduct action potentials more quickly than other fiber types
- Type B fibers
-
nerve fibers with intermediate diameters and a low degree of myelination and therefore conduct action potentials at speeds between that of type A and C fibers
- type C fibers
-
nerve fibers with small diameters that are unmyelinated and therefore conduct action potentials more slowly than other fiber types
- type I alveolar cell
-
squamous epithelial cells that are the major cell type in the alveolar wall; highly permeable to gases
- type I hypersensitivity
-
immediate response mediated by mast cell degranulation caused by the crosslinking of the antigen-specific IgE molecules on the mast cell surface
- type II alveolar cell
-
cuboidal epithelial cells that are the minor cell type in the alveolar wall; secrete pulmonary surfactant
- type II hypersensitivity
-
cell damage caused by the binding of antibody and the activation of complement, usually against red blood cells
- type III hypersensitivity
-
damage to tissues caused by the deposition of antibody-antigen (immune) complexes followed by the activation of complement
- type IV hypersensitivity
-
(aka delayed hypersensitivity)
an antibody-independent response primarily involving by T cells and macrophages - tyrosine
-
amino acid used in the synthesis of hormones like catecholamines and thyroid hormones
- ulna
-
bone located on the medial side of the forearm
- ulnar artery
-
formed at the bifurcation of the brachial artery; parallels the ulna; gives off smaller branches until it reaches the carpal region where it fuses with the radial artery to form the superficial and deep palmar arches; supplies blood to the lower arm and carpal region
- ulnar nerve
-
systemic nerve of the arm located close to the ulna, a bone of the forearm
- ulnar notch of the radius
-
shallow, smooth area located on the medial side of the distal radius; articulates with the head of the ulna at the distal radioulnar joint
- ulnar vein
-
parallels the ulna and ulnar artery; arises from the palmar venous arches and leads to the brachial vein
- umami
-
taste submodality for sensitivity to the concentration of amino acids; also called the savory sense
- umbilical cord
-
connection between the developing conceptus and the placenta; carries deoxygenated blood and wastes from the fetus and returns nutrients and oxygen from the mother
- uniaxial joint
-
type of diarthrosis; joint that allows for motion within only one plane (one axis)
- unipennate
-
pennate muscle that has fascicles located on one side of the tendon
- Unipolar neurons
-
neurons with only one process that connects to an axon which has dendrites on one end
- universal donor
-
individual with type O− blood
- universal recipient
-
individual with type AB+ blood
- upper esophageal sphincter
-
skeletal muscle sphincter that regulates food movement from the pharynx to the esophagus
- upper motor neuron
-
first neuron in the motor command pathway with its cell body in the cerebral cortex that synapses on the lower motor neuron in the spinal cord
- urea cycle
-
process that converts potentially toxic nitrogen waste into urea that can be eliminated through the kidneys
- ureters
-
transport urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder
- urethra
-
transports urine from the bladder to the outside environment
- urinalysis
-
analysis of urine to diagnose disease
- urinary bladder
-
temporarily stores urine until it is ready to be eliminated
- urinary tract
-
contains the kidneys, ureter, urinary bladder, and urethra. Transport, store, and eliminate urine from the body
- urobilins
-
is the chemical primarily responsible for the yellow color of urine. It is a linear tetrapyrrole compound that, along with the related colorless compound urobilinogen, are degradation products of the cyclic tetrapyrrole heme
- urochrome
-
heme-derived pigment that imparts the typical yellow color of urine
- urogenital triangle
-
anterior triangle of the perineum that includes the external genitals
- uterine tubes
-
(also, fallopian tubes or oviducts) ducts that facilitate transport of an ovulated oocyte to the uterus
- uterus
-
muscular hollow organ in which a fertilized egg develops into a fetus
- utricle
-
structure of the inner ear responsible for transducing linear acceleration in the horizontal plane
- vagina
-
tunnel-like organ that provides access to the uterus for the insertion of semen and from the uterus for the birth of a baby
- vagus nerve
-
tenth cranial nerve; responsible for the autonomic control of organs in the thoracic and upper abdominal cavities
- valence shell
-
Outermost electron shell of an atom.
- valve
-
in the cardiovascular system, a specialized structure located within the heart or vessels that ensures one-way flow of blood
- valves
-
inward projections within lymphatic capillaries that prevent lymph backflow
- variable region
-
domain part of a lymphocyte antigen receptor that varies considerably between different
receptor types - varicosity
-
structure of some autonomic connections that is not a typical synaptic end bulb, but a string of swellings along the length of a fiber that makes a network of connections with the target effector
- vasa recta
-
branches of the efferent arterioles that parallel the course of the loops of Henle and are continuous with the peritubular capillaries; with the glomerulus, form a portal system
- vasa vasorum
-
small blood vessels located within the walls or tunics of larger vessels that supply nourishment to and remove wastes from the cells of the vessels
- vascular shunt
-
continuation of the metarteriole and thoroughfare channel that allows blood to bypass the capillary beds to flow directly from the arterial to the venous circulation
- vascular spasm
-
initial step in hemostasis, in which the smooth muscle in the walls of the ruptured or damaged blood vessel contracts
- vascular tone
-
contractile state of smooth muscle in a blood vessel
- vascular tunic
-
middle layer of the eye primarily composed of connective tissue with a rich blood supply
- vasoconstriction
-
constriction of the smooth muscle of a blood vessel, resulting in a decreased vascular diameter
- vasodilation
-
Widening of blood vessels.
- vasomotion
-
irregular, pulsating flow of blood through capillaries and related structures
- vasomotor nerves
-
preganglionic sympathetic fibers that cause the constriction of blood vessels in response to signals from the cardiovascular center
- vastus intermedius
-
quadricep muscle that is between the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis and is deep to the rectus femoris
- vastus lateralis
-
quadricep muscle on the lateral aspect of the thigh
- vastus medialis
-
quadricep muscle on the medial aspect of the thigh
- vein
-
blood vessel that conducts blood toward the heart
- venous reserve
-
volume of blood contained within systemic veins in the integument, bone marrow, and liver that can be returned to the heart for circulation, if needed
- ventilation
-
movement of air into and out of the lungs; consists of inspiration and expiration
- ventral
-
Describes the front or direction toward the front of the body; also referred to as anterior.
- ventral (anterior) root
-
axons emerging from the anterior or lateral horns of the spinal cord
- ventral cavity
-
Larger body cavity located anterior to the posterior (dorsal) body cavity; includes the serous membrane-lined pleural cavities for the lungs, pericardial cavity for the heart, and peritoneal cavity for the abdominal and pelvic organs; also referred to as anterior body cavity.
- ventral column
-
white matter of the spinal cord located between the ventral horns
- ventral ramus
-
the ventral branch of a spinal nerve consisting of both sensory and motor neurons
- Ventral respiratory group
-
region of the medulla oblongata that stimulates the contraction of the accessory muscles involved in respiration to induce forced inspiration and expiration
- ventricle
-
one of the primary pumping chambers of the heart located in the lower portion of the heart; the left ventricle is the major pumping chamber on the lower left side of the heart that ejects blood into the systemic circuit via the aorta and receives blood from the left atrium; the right ventricle is the major pumping chamber on the lower right side of the heart that ejects blood into the pulmonary circuit via the pulmonary trunk and receives blood from the right atrium
- Ventricles
-
remnants of the hollow center of the neural tube that are spaces for cerebrospinal fluid to circulate through the brain
- ventricular ejection phase
-
second phase of ventricular systole during which blood is pumped from the ventricle
- ventricular fibrillation
-
arrhythmia that starts in the ventricle
- ventricular relaxation
-
also known as ventricular diastole, follows the repolarization of the ventricles and is represented by the T wave of the ECG
- ventricular systole
-
follows the depolarization of the ventricles represented by the QRS complex in the ECG
- Ventricular tachycardia
-
heart rate above 100 bpm
- venule
-
small vessel leading from the capillaries to veins
- vermis
-
unpaired medial structure that separates the cerebellar hemispheres
- vernix caseosa
-
waxy, cheese-like substance that protects the delicate fetal skin until birth
- vertebra
-
Individual bone in the neck and back regions of the vertebral column.
- vertebral (spinal) canal
-
Bony passageway within the vertebral column for the spinal cord that is formed by the series of individual vertebral foramina.
- vertebral arch
-
Bony arch formed by the posterior portion of each vertebra that surrounds and protects the spinal cord.
- vertebral arteries
-
arteries that ascend along either side of the vertebral column through the transverse foramina of the cervical vertebrae and enter the cranium through the foramen magnum
- vertebral artery
-
arises from the subclavian artery and passes through the vertebral foramen through the foramen magnum to the brain; joins with the internal carotid artery to form the arterial circle; supplies blood to the brain and spinal cord
- vertebral column
-
Entire sequence of bones that extend from the skull to the tailbone.
- vertebral foramen
-
Opening associated with each vertebra defined by the vertebral arch that provides passage for the spinal cord.
- vertebral vein
-
arises from the base of the brain and the cervical region of the spinal cord; passes through the intervertebral foramina in the cervical vertebrae; drains smaller veins from the cranium, spinal cord, and vertebrae, and leads to the brachiocephalic vein; counterpart of the vertebral artery
- vesicle
-
Membrane-bound structure that contains materials within or outside of the cell.
- vestibular fold
-
part of the folded region of the glottis composed of mucous membrane; supports the epiglottis during swallowing
- vestibular nuclei
-
targets of the vestibular component of the eighth cranial nerve
- vestibule
-
in the ear, the portion of the inner ear responsible for the sense of equilibrium
- vestibulo-ocular reflex
-
reflex based on connections between the vestibular system and the cranial nerves of eye movements that ensures images are stabilized on the retina as the head and body move
- vestibulocochlear nerve
-
eighth cranial nerve; responsible for the sensations of hearing and balance
- vestibulospinal tract
-
extrapyramidal connections between the vestibular nuclei in the brain stem and spinal cord that modulate movement and contribute to balance on the basis of the sense of equilibrium
- villus
-
projection of the mucosa of the small intestine
- Virus
-
a non-living infectious agent that requires a living cell to multiply
- Visceral motor neuron
-
transmit efferent signals to cardiac muscle, smooth muscle, and glands
- visceral pericardium
-
The serous membrane covering the heart.
- visceral peritoneum
-
The serous membrane covering the abdominal cavity viscera.
- visceral pleura
-
The serous membrane covering the lungs.
- visceral reflex
-
reflex involving an internal organ as the effector, under the control of the autonomic nervous system
- visceral sense
-
sense associated with the internal organs
- Visceral sensory neuron
-
transmit afferent nervous signals from organs other than skin, joints, muscles and the special sensory organs
- vision
-
special sense of sight based on transduction of light stimuli
- Vital Capacity (VC)
-
sum of TV, ERV, and IRV, which is all the volumes that participate in gas exchange
- vitamin D
-
Compound that aids absorption of calcium and phosphates in the intestine to improve bone health.
- vitamins
-
organic compounds required by the body to perform biochemical reactions like metabolism and bone, cell, and tissue growth
- vitiligo
-
Skin condition in which melanocytes in certain areas lose the ability to produce melanin, possibly due an autoimmune reaction that leads to loss of color in patches.
- vitreous humor
-
viscous fluid that fills the posterior chamber of the eye
- voltage
-
(aka potential energy)
the difference in electrical charge between two areas - Voltage-gated channel
-
ion channel that opens because of a change in the charge distributed across the membrane nearby
- vomer bone
-
Unpaired bone that forms the inferior and posterior portions of the nasal septum.
- vulva
-
external female genitalia
- Wallerian degeneration
-
active process of retrograde degeneration of the distal end of an axon after it has been severed
- water-soluble hormones
-
hydrophilic hormones that easily dissolve in water
- wave summation
-
addition of successive neural stimuli to produce greater contraction
- Wernicke’s area
-
region of the brain that contains motor neurons involved in the comprehension of speech
- White blood cells (WBCs)
-
(also, leukocytes) one of the formed elements of blood that provides defense against disease agents and foreign materials
- white matter
-
regions of the nervous system, usually referencing the CNS, containing mostly myelinated axons which makes the tissue appear whitedue to the high lipid content
- white pulp
-
areas in the spleen where numerous WBCs are performing immunological functions
- white rami communicantes
-
(singular = ramus communicans) myelinated structures that provide a short connection from a sympathetic chain ganglion to the spinal nerve that contains the preganglionic sympathetic fiber
- whole blood
-
blood drawn directly from the body from which none of the components, such as plasma or platelets, has been removed
- withdrawal reflex
-
reflex in which a painful stimulus causes withdrawal of the injured body part
- wound contraction
-
Process whereby the borders of a wound are physically drawn together.
- X-linked
-
pattern of inheritance in which an allele is carried on the X chromosome of the 23rd pair
- X-linked dominant
-
pattern of dominant inheritance that corresponds to a gene on the X chromosome of the 23rd pair
- X-linked recessive
-
pattern of recessive inheritance that corresponds to a gene on the X chromosome of the 23rd pair
- X-ray
-
Form of high energy electromagnetic radiation with a short wavelength capable of penetrating solids and ionizing gases; used in medicine as a diagnostic aid to visualize body structures such as bones.
- xiphoid process
-
Small process that forms the inferior tip of the sternum.
- yellow marrow
-
Connective tissue in the interior cavity of a bone where fat is stored.
- yolk sac
-
membrane associated with primitive circulation to the developing embryo; source of the first blood cells and germ cells and contributes to the umbilical cord structure
- zona fasciculata
-
intermediate region of the adrenal cortex that produce hormones called glucocorticoids
- zona glomerulosa
-
most superficial region of the adrenal cortex, which produces the hormones collectively referred to as mineralocorticoids
- zona pellucida
-
thick, gel-like glycoprotein membrane that coats the oocyte and must be penetrated by sperm before fertilization can occur
- zona reticularis
-
deepest region of the adrenal cortex, which produces the steroid sex hormones called androgens
- zone of calcified matrix
-
Region of the epiphyseal plate closest to the diaphyseal end; functions to connect the epiphyseal plate to the diaphysis.
- zone of maturation and hypertrophy
-
Region of the epiphyseal plate where chondrocytes from the proliferative zone grow and mature and contribute to the longitudinal growth of the epiphyseal plate.
- zonule fibers
-
fibrous connections between the ciliary body and the lens
- zygomatic arch
-
Elongated, free-standing arch on the lateral skull, formed anteriorly by the temporal process of the zygomatic bone and posteriorly by the zygomatic process of the temporal bone.
- zygomatic bone
-
Cheekbone; paired bones that contribute to the lateral orbit and anterior zygomatic arch.
- zygomatic process of the temporal bone
-
Extension from the temporal bone that forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch.
- zygote
-
fertilized egg; a diploid cell resulting from the fertilization of haploid gametes from the male and female lines