fysiologian

Fysiologian is the scientific study of the functions and mechanisms of living systems, from molecules to whole organisms. It investigates how organisms carry out essential processes such as metabolism, energy production, signaling, movement, growth, development, and homeostasis.

It covers levels from cellular to systemic organization. Major branches include human, animal, plant, and microbial physiology, with subfields such as neurophysiology, cardiovascular physiology, respiratory physiology, renal physiology, gastrointestinal physiology, endocrine physiology, reproductive physiology, musculoskeletal physiology, and exercise physiology.

Physiologists use experimental methods, quantitative analysis, and computational modeling, along with techniques like electrophysiology, biochemistry, imaging (MRI, CT, PET), and genomics to study function.

Historically rooted in ancient natural philosophy, physiology emerged as a distinct discipline in the 19th century. Claude Bernard and his concept of the milieu intérieur helped define internal constancy; Ivan Pavlov and others advanced understanding through experiments; Walter Cannon introduced homeostasis.

Physiology underpins medicine, healthcare, pharmacology, sport science, agriculture, and environmental biology. It provides a basis for diagnosing disease, evaluating organ function, and designing therapies and interventions.