Introduction
The human body is a single structure of several different organs and organ systems. Each body system has specific physiology and function. Without these systems, it will be difficult for any person or species to survive. Morphology is the study of the biological form and the structure of an animal or human body.
An overview of the morphology, anatomy, and functions of different systems in the human body helps in understanding the human body better.
Different Systems in the Human body
The morphology, anatomy, and functions of different systems in the human body are as follows:
Skeletal System
Bones and cartilage make up the skeletal system. The skeleton is divided into two sections: axial and appendicular. The bones of the head and trunk make up the axial skeleton. The bones of the limbs and the pectoral and pelvic girdles make up the appendicular skeleton.
An adult human body has 206 bones. A joint, also known as ‘articulation,’ is the point where two bones meet. Cartilage supports joints and is reinforced by ligaments.
Cardiovascular System
The heart and the circulatory system of blood vessels make up the cardiovascular system. There are four chambers in the heart: two atria and two ventricles. The upper chambers of the left and right atria are where blood enters the heart, and the left and right ventricles are where it exits from. Valves prevent backflow of blood.
Arteries, veins, and capillaries make up the circulatory system, also known as the vascular system. They are all connected by a continuous network of vessels transporting blood to the body.
Respiratory System
The nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and lungs are all organs that make up the respiratory system (alveoli). The upper respiratory system comprises the nasal cavity and the pharynx, while the lower respiratory system comprises the remaining organs.
Except for the alveoli, the organs of the respiratory system function to carry air into the lungs with the help of breathing muscles (mainly the diaphragm and intercostal muscles).
Nervous System
The brain, spinal cord, and sensory organs comprise the nervous system. By controlling the functions of other organs in the body, the nervous system regulates how we interact with and respond to our environment. For example, neurons connect the brain, spinal cord, and sensory organs, allowing neural signals to travel throughout the body.
The nervous system is divided into two parts based on morphology and topography: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
The central nervous system receives information from the environment and generates instructions, allowing the body to control its activities. The peripheral nervous system communicates this two-way information flow into and out of the CNS.
Digestive System
The digestive system’s job is to break down food into smaller units so that the nutrients can be easily absorbed into the blood and provide energy to the body. It is made up of organs from the gastrointestinal tract and other digestive organs.
The digestive system organs begin from the mouth and end at the anus. The organs of the digestive system are:
- mouth
- oesophagus
- stomach
- small intestine
- large intestine
- rectum
- anal canal
The salivary glands, pancreas, liver, and gallbladder are accessory digestive organs that help with food’s mechanical and chemical breakdown.
Urinary System
The urinary system comprises organs whose job is to collect and remove urine from the body. The kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra make up the urinary system.
Kidneys are two bean-like organs that are retroperitoneally located. Nephrons are present within the kidneys, and their function is to filter the blood passing through the glomerulus. After passing through various tubules and ducts, the blood filtrate eventually forms urine. Next, urine flows into the ureters, smooth muscle tubes transporting urine from the kidneys to the bladder. The urinary bladder is a hollow container-like organ that collects urine and later passes it through the urethra outside the body. (micturition).
Reproductive System
The genital system, also known as the reproductive system, is a collection of internal and external sex organs that aid reproduction.
The external female sex organs are the vulva’s labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening. Ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina are internal sex organs.
The testes, scrotum, and penis are the external male sex organs, while the epididymis, vas deferens, and accessory glands are internal sex organs.
Endocrine System
The endocrine system comprises organs that produce hormones (glands) in the body. The endocrine system consists of the following organs:
- Pineal gland
- Pituitary gland
- Thyroid gland
- Thymus
- Pancreas
- Adrenal gland
- Ovary
- Testis
These hormones regulate the functioning of various organs in the body, such as ovaries releasing oestrogen and progesterone to regulate the menstrual cycle.
Conclusion
The morphology, anatomy, and functions of different systems are essential topics. Understanding the characteristics, structures, and functions of the digestive, cardiovascular and endocrine systems can help us gain insight into the various processes in the human body. A well-developed digestive system aids in the extraction of the body’s essential nutrients and minerals. A functioning respiratory system ensures efficient gas exchange. In contrast, the skeletal, nervous and endocrine system allows coordination and interaction within the body and the outside world, ensuring survival.