Course Objectives:

At the end of this course, students should be able to:

  1. Discuss the importance of the endocrine system in the regulation of physiological functions.
  2. Describe the actions of important hormones and the regulation of their secretion.
  3. Explain the major endocrine functions of the sexual glands and the actions of sex hormones.
  4. Describe the processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis.
  5. Explain the processes of the menstrual cycle and the main steps of pregnancy.

 Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic structure and function of the endocrine, male reproductive, and female reproductive systems.
  2. Identify the gross anatomical and microscopic structures of the endocrine, male reproductive, and female reproductive systems.
  3. Describe the development of the endocrine, male reproductive, and female reproductive systems.
  4. Demonstrate knowledge of clinical correlations and physical examination skills related to the structure, function, and assessment of the endocrine, male reproductive, and female reproductive systems. 

Detailed Course Content:

Module 1: Introduction to the Endocrine System

  • Overview of the endocrine system.
  • Hormones and their role in regulating physiological functions.
  • Major endocrine glands: Hypothalamus, Pituitary, Thyroid, Adrenal, and Pancreatic Islets.
  • Mechanisms of hormone regulation and feedback loops.

Module 2: Pancreatic Islet and Hormonal Control of Metabolism

  • Structure and function of the pancreatic islet.
  • Insulin, glucagon, and their role in blood glucose regulation.
  • Clinical correlations: Diabetes mellitus and metabolic disorders.

Module 3: The Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland

  • Anatomy and functions of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
  • Hormones produced by the anterior and posterior pituitary.
  • Regulatory pathways: Hormonal control of growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Module 4: Thyroid and Adrenal Glands

  • Structure and function of the thyroid gland: Thyroid hormones (T3, T4) and their impact on metabolism.
  • Adrenal glands: Structure, hormones (cortisol, aldosterone, adrenaline), and their physiological effects.
  • Disorders of thyroid and adrenal glands: Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Addison's disease, and Cushing's syndrome.

Module 5: Sexual Differentiation and Gametogenesis

  • Overview of sexual differentiation and genetic factors in sexual development.
  • Gametogenesis: Spermatogenesis in males and oogenesis in females.
  • Hormonal regulation of gametogenesis.

Module 6: Male and Female Reproductive Physiology

  • Anatomy and physiology of the male reproductive system.
  • Anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system.
  • Hormonal regulation of male and female reproductive cycles.

Module 7: The Menstrual Cycle and Fertility

  • Phases of the menstrual cycle: Follicular phase, ovulation, luteal phase, and menstruation.
  • Hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle.
  • Fertility: Factors influencing conception and infertility.

Module 8: Fertilization, Pregnancy, and Birth

  • The process of fertilization and early embryonic development.
  • Hormonal regulation during pregnancy: HCG, progesterone, and estrogen.
  • Stages of labor and delivery.

Module 9: Lactation and Postpartum Physiology

  • Hormonal regulation of lactation.
  • Anatomy of the mammary glands.
  • The role of prolactin and oxytocin in milk production and ejection.

Module 10: Contraception and Sexual Health

  • Types of contraception: Hormonal, barrier methods, and natural family planning.
  • Effects of contraceptive methods on reproductive health.
  • Sexual function and dysfunction across the lifespan.

Module 11: Estrogens and Cancer of the Breast and Reproductive Organs

  • Relationship between estrogens and the development of breast and reproductive organ cancers.
  • Clinical implications for cancer prevention and treatment.

Teaching/Learning Methods:

  • Lectures: To provide foundational knowledge on the endocrine and reproductive systems.
  • Discussions: Interactive sessions to explore clinical cases and real-life applications.
  • Group Presentations: Presenting research findings on topics like hormonal regulation and reproductive health.
  • Case Studies: Analysis of clinical scenarios related to endocrine and reproductive health.

Modes of Assessment:

  • Continuous Assessment (30%):
    • Class participation, quizzes, and written assignments.
    • Group presentations on reproductive health topics.
  • Mid-Semester Exam (20%):
    • A written exam covering the endocrine system and reproductive physiology.
  • Final Exam (50%):
    • A comprehensive written exam covering all course content, including endocrine and reproductive systems.

Reading List/References:

Required Texts:

  1. Guyton, A. C., & Hall, J. E. (2020). Textbook of Medical Physiology (13th ed.). Elsevier.
  2. Gaines, E. E., & Stojanovic, D. (2018). Human Reproductive Physiology (5th ed.). Pearson.

Supplementary Texts:

  1. Nelson, D. L., & Cox, M. M. (2017). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry (7th ed.). W.H. Freeman.
  2. Ross, M. H., & Pawlina, W. (2020). Histology: A Text and Atlas (7th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.

Online Resources: