OVERVIEW

The teaching unit introduces students to the fundamental principles of endocrinology and metabolism, with particular emphasis on the role of the endocrine system in the regulation of body functions and in adaptation to physical activity.

The main mechanisms of hormonal regulation, the most common endocrine and metabolic disorders, and their possible effects on health status, exercise capacity and physical performance will be addressed. Particular attention will be devoted to diabetes mellitus, obesity, endocrine alterations associated with sports activity, and the effects of the improper use of hormonal substances for doping purposes.

The teaching unit aims to provide students with the tools required to understand the interactions among the endocrine system, metabolism and physical exercise, and to apply this knowledge in the context of preventive, adapted and sports-related physical activities.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The teaching unit explores the main physiological, pathophysiological and clinical aspects of the endocrine system and metabolism, with particular emphasis on the role of hormones in the regulation of body functions and in adaptation to physical activity. The implications of the main endocrine and metabolic disorders for physical activity will also be considered.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the course students will learn the basic principles of physiology of endocrine system and the role of hormones in the adaptation to physical activity. Students will learn clinical and physiopathological aspects of the most common forms of endocrine disturbances and their consequences to physical activity. Furthermore, the course will deal with the most relevant endocrine implications of doping and drug abuse.

PREREQUISITES

A basic knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, biology and biochemistry is required for successful participation in the teaching unit, with particular reference to the mechanisms regulating homeostasis and energy metabolism.

TEACHING METHODS

The course will be composed of front lessons.

In case of certification of specific learning disability, disability or other special educational needs, please contact both the Department contact person, Prof. Nicola Girtler, and the lecturer at the beginning of the lectures to agree on teaching and exam methods which, in compliance of the teaching objectives, take into account individual learning methods and provide suitable compensatory/dispensatory tools
recognized by the University SLD Student Service.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Basic description of the endocrine system. Adenohypophysys and axis with hypothalamus  Hypothalamus hypophysis-thyroid axis (TRH, TSH, thyroid hormones), clinical manifestations of thyroid dysfunction, consequences on health and sports performance. Hypothalamus hypophysis-adrenocortical (CRH, ACTH, corticosteroids), Cushing and Addison diseases. Hypothalamus hypophysis-gonads axis (GnRH, FSH, LH, sex steroids), reproductive dysfunctions in athletes and their long-term implications. GHRH-GH-IGF-I axis, GH deficit in children and adults and their consequences for general health and sports performance. Neurohypophysis  (vasopressin, oxytocin) and insipid diabetes. Sympathetic system and adrenal medulla (catecholamines). Regolazione of calcium-phosphorus metabolism and osteoporosis. health consequences of doping: abuse of GH in sport, acromegaly model. Adverse reactions of androgens in women, anabolic steroids and their effects on sports performance. Endocrine pancreas, regulation of glucose metabolism, diabethes mellitus, clinical manifestation ancd complicances; phisical activity to prevent or cure diabethes mellitus, administration of physical activity  and antidiabethic therapy . Obesity and eating disorders.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Title: "Endocrinologia ed Attività motorie". Authors: Lenzi, Lombardi, Martino, Trimarchi. Eds: Elsevier

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

MARA BOSCHETTI (President)

ANNA MARIA RICCIO (President)

STEFANO THELLUNG DE COURTELARY (President and Coordinator of Integrated Course)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Lessons will start in the University Campus of Savona in March.

Class schedule

ENDOCRINOLOGY

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam will be performed in form of a talk.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The exam is aimed to evaluate the capacity of the students to describe the physiology of the most important endocrine pathways, focusing on those that display a reciprocal influence with sports. The capacity of students to evaluate the impact of physical activity on the endocrine health of athletes and reckon which activities may be relevant to worsen pathological conditions linked to endocrine inbalance will be considered a plus and deserving the hyhest score.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The Endocrinology teaching unit must be attended and passed together with the other teaching units included in the integrated course “Integrated Medical Sciences in Sport”.