Comparative anatomy

The teaching aims to provide an insight into the anatomical and morpho-functional organization of vertebrates through a comparative approach . Macro and microscopic characters of organs  will be analyzed within an evolutionary context. The theoretical description of each apparatus will be accompanied by the analysis of anatomical models  during practical laboratories. The students will then have to acquire detailed knowledges morpho-functional  of vertebrates using the basic concepts of comparative surveys as scientific methodology.

Expected results  - To have undergraduates know both the organization and functioning of the vertebrates body on the basis of the ontogenesis of the anatomical structures within a phylogenetic context; and to have them acquire the basic relationship between form and function. To develop autonomy of judgment on the biological mechanisms that drive evolutionary and adaptative processes in animals.- To develop communication skills using a specific technical-scientific terminology.

Introduction to the development of the animals and to the cellular basis of morphogenesis. Gametogenesis. Insemination. Segmentation. Gastrulation. Organogenesis. Outline of models of development in invertebrates and vertebrates. - Introduction to the study of the organ systems of vertebrates and their evolution. Unity of the structure of the Vertebrates. - Protection. Tegument and its derivatives, structure and functions of the skin, the tegument of the fish: the importance of dermal derivatives, the tegument of tetrapods: the importance of dander. - Coordination and integration. Nervous system and sense organs. The nervous system: outlines, spinal cord and peripheral nerves, the brain and its evolution, the organ of smell, the ear and the eye. - Support. The skull: relations between cranial components and evolution; axial skeleton: the evolution of the vertebrae, appendicular skeleton - Origin, structure and adaptations of limbs in tetrapods. - Excretion and reproduction. The urinary system: structure and evolution of the kidney; osmoregulation in freshwater, sea water and land vertebrates. Reproductive system: development and differentiation of the gonads. Genital ducts. - Circulation. Evolution of the cardiovascular system of vertebrates. Functional considerations and models of blood circulation. - Breathing. Main functions and structural organization of the respiratory system in aquatic vertebrates and in terrestrial ones. - Nutrition. General information on the development, structure and function of the digestive system.

 Stingo et al. Aatomia Comparata. Edi-Ermes. 

oppure

 Liem-Bemis-Walker-Grande. Anatomia Comparata dei Vertebrati. Una visione funzionale ed evolutiva.

Oral exam

In itinere text

Development of the eye

Double and incomplete circulation

Kidney types

Cerebellum