Discover the crucial components and systems in the human body that keep us alive and healthy.

10,150 enrolled on this course

the head and upper torso of a body, with view of bones and muscles
  • Duration

    3 weeks
  • Weekly study

    4 hours

Explore how different parts of the body communicate with each other

The way in which parts of the body communicate with each other is vital to keeping us healthy. But how does our internal communication work – and how do these individual components produce energy?

On this course, from the University of Aberdeen, you’ll learn how the human body utilises energy pathways, and how different elements communicate effectively. You’ll find out about the biomolecules involved in communication, and the role of endocrinology and immunology.

You’ll discover how the body works and regulates itself, and also improve your knowledge of disease development and prevention.

What topics will you cover?

  • How does the body produce energy?
  • Why is communication important in the body?
  • The key communication pathways used by the body
  • Biomolecules used in communication
  • How the body regulates itself

When would you like to start?

  • Date to be announced

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Learning on this course

On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

  • Explain the importance of communication between different components of the body
  • Describe the role of endocrinology and immunology within the body
  • Classify and describe the key molecules involved in endocrinological and immunological processes
  • Describe the importance of homeostasis and synthesise examples of when and how this process is used in the body
  • Describe the key pathways involved in energy production

Who is the course for?

This course is aimed at anyone who is interested in how the human body regulates and communicates with itself.

Existing knowledge of components of the body is not essential but some prior knowledge of biology might be helpful.

Who will you learn with?

I am a Research Assistant at the Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen. I work alongside researchers in the Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health.

I am a Research Fellow at the Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen. I am currently researching genetic factors that influence joint health and arthritis.

Who developed the course?

University of Aberdeen

University of Aberdeen is the 3rd oldest Scottish and 5th oldest UK University. With 14500 students from 120 countries, it is a world leader in medical research, energy, environment, law and business.

Learning on FutureLearn

Your learning, your rules

  • Courses are split into weeks, activities, and steps to help you keep track of your learning
  • Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
  • Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores

Join a global classroom

  • Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
  • Share ideas with your peers and course educators on every step of the course
  • Join the conversation by reading, @ing, liking, bookmarking, and replying to comments from others

Map your progress

  • As you work through the course, use notifications and the Progress page to guide your learning
  • Whenever you’re ready, mark each step as complete, you’re in control
  • Complete 90% of course steps and all of the assessments to earn your certificate

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