Module Information

In the introduction to the Alimentary strand, this module will concentrate on the commonalities of alimentary tract structure and function, but will also highlight the many differences that are important to animal care and production. Initially the module will study the teeth, chewing and swallowing, and then move caudally through the tract describing the key organs and their physiology. Abdominal anatomy is also covered, focusing on the placement of organs within the abdomen, and the abdominal wall, including surgical access routes. Having eaten, digested and absorbed material, it is important to understand how animals use these metabolites to drive bodily processes. This module will outline the most important metabolic pathways, always focusing on how these are regulated to meet the body’s needs. The “Endocrine” strand content within this section will focus on regulating blood glucose levels and learning to perform and analyse a glucose tolerance test. Finally, fermentation processes in both foregut and hindgut fermenting herbivores will be considered.

In the introduction to the “Urogenital” strands students will learn the key organs, tissues and cells present in the urinary and reproductive tracts and their function. The module will outline key changes in oocyte and spermatozoa during fertilization, processes that occur post-fertilization including placental structure and function and cover maternal and foetal changes at the end of pregnancy that result in parturition. Finally, environmental influences on reproduction will be examined to help understand seasonal reproduction. The endocrine strand content within this section will focus on hormone secretion and action relating to reproduction. The renal and urinary system is intimately associated with the reproductive system. The anatomy and physiology is introduced towards the end of Year 1 and linked back to the cardiorespiratory system in terms of this system’s key role in regulating blood volume and electrolyte homeostasis.