Physiology is the study of how living organisms function. It covers a wide range of topics from the molecular level up to whole-body systems. The field of physiology includes many subdisciplines, such as cell physiology, neurophysiology, and exercise physiology.
Physiology is a branch of biology that deals with the functions and activities of living organisms and their parts, including all aspects of life from the biochemical level up through cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, and entire organisms. In other words, it is the study of how living things work.
The main goal of physiology is to understand how biological systems function at every level—from molecules and cells to complex organ systems such as the nervous or immune system. By understanding how these systems work in both health and disease states, physiologists can develop treatments for disorders or injuries.
For example, by studying how nerves carry signals between the brain and muscles, physiologists can develop new prosthetic devices that can help people who have lost limbs regain some degree of mobility. Or by understanding how blood vessels are able to dilate or constrict in response to changes in blood pressure or temperature, physiologists can develop new treatments for conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) or Raynaud’s disease (a condition where blood vessels in the extremities constrict excessively in response to cold temperatures).
In addition to its focus on treatment development, physiology also plays an important role in prevention efforts. For instance, by understanding how physical activity affects various body systems—such as the cardiovascular system or musculoskeletal system—physiologists can develop recommendations for exercises that will help reduce our risk for developing chronic diseases like heart disease or osteoporosis.