Structure and Function Interaction
The idea of complementarity of structure and function is one of the most fundamental and unifying principles in anatomy and physiology. In the chapters that follow, you'll notice that anatomical features appear to be "built to execute certain activities" on several occasions. Each structure in the body has a certain size, shape, form, or composition that makes it highly effective at executing a specific and specialised task.
As you examine the respiratory system in Chapter 22, the links between the levels of structural organisation depicted in Figure 1-2 will become clearer. You'll discover about a highly specialised chemical compound released by cells in the lungs that prevents small air sacs in these organs from collapsing during respiration, for example. During development, hereditary material termed DNA (a macromolecule) "directs" the differentiation of specialised cells in the lungs so that they can contribute efficiently to respiratory function.
Special chemicals are generated, cells are changed, and tissues that are specifically adapted to this organ system emerge as a result of DNA activity. Cilia (organelles) assist capture and remove inhaled pollutants such as dust by covering the exposed surface of cells that make up the tissues that lining the respiratory passages. The respiratory tubes and lungs' architecture aid in the efficient and fast flow of air, as well as the exchange of essential respiratory gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air in the lungs and the blood. Specialized molecules, organelles, cells, tissues, and organs work together as the respiratory system to provide oxygen and nutrients to every cell in our body. Oxygen is continually added, while carbon dioxide is constantly removed.
Structure not only dictates function, but function also has an impact on an organism's physical anatomy throughout time. This knowledge helps students better understand illness processes and the structural abnormalities that are frequently linked with pathology. The integration, interaction, development, alteration, and management of functional bodily components are currently a major focus of current human biology research. You will be able to integrate otherwise separate factual information into a coherent and intelligible whole by applying the idea of complementarity of structure and function as you examine the structural and functional levels of the body's organisation in each organ system.
The components of an anatomical structure that can be connected to its function are not forgotten as quickly as a memorized set of separate and independent information.
QUICK INSPECTION
1. Define "structural and functional complementarity."
2. Provide an example of how the chemical macromolecule DNA might affect body structure.
3. Discuss how structure in the respiratory system relates to function at the tissue level of organisation.
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