Organ Systems

The organ systems are the main divisions of the body. Each organ system is made up of organs that work together to make the body function. The following paragraphs explain the organ systems of the body. Walker (2006) provides different real-life analogies for some of the organ systems. These analogies will be tackled in the paragraphs below.

NERVOUS SYSTEM

The nervous system is an organ system that receives, interprets, and responds to the information gathered by the body from its surroundings. The nervous system is divided into the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (network of nerves). The nervous system enables thinking and autonomic functions such as breathing and heart pumping. Walker (2006) gives an analogy of the nervous system to a wired computer system. The central processing unit (CPU) of a computer represents the brain, the wires are the nerves, the keyboard sends stimuli to the body, and the monitor acts as the part of the body that shows the actions directed by the brain.

LYMPHATIC SYSTEM

The lymphatic system is composed of a network of thin tubes that defends the body against disease-causing organisms such as bacteria and viruses. It also maintains the fluid balance in the body. This is made up of the various organs including the tonsils, lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, liver, spleen, Peyer’s Patches, appendix, and the bone marrow.

CIRCULATORY SYSTEM

The circulatory system is the “lifeline” of the human body because it is responsible for transporting blood, supplying oxygen, and carrying nutrients that enter the bloodstream into the body. It also supports the other organ systems in removing wastes from the body and maintaining body temperature. Parts of the circulatory system include the heart, blood, and blood vessels. Walker (2006) compares the circulatory system to the water system. A water system provides water to households in an area. The households represent the various parts of the body, while the distribution of water represents blood circulation.

REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

The reproductive system is the part of the body responsible for producing offspring or children. This includes the various reproductive organs of the male and females (testes and ovary) and also the other organs or components such as the vagina, birth canal, vulva, clitoris, seminal vesicles, vas deferens, urethra, and many more.

INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM

The integumentary system regulates body temperature, covers the body, and protects underlying tissues. Parts of the integumentary system include the nails, skin, hair, and glands like the sweat glands and sebaceous glands.

URINARY SYSTEM

The urinary system is also known as the cleaning or filtering system of the body. This system removes and filters wastes from the blood and aids in maintaining the body’s water and electrolyte balance.

RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

The respiratory system allows gas exchange to occur in the body or taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. This is composed of the nose and nasal cavity, mouth, pharynx, larynx, bronchioles, alveolar sacs, and other organs. Also, this maintains the blood acidity or pH levels.

DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food into simpler forms. The food is broken down into simple forms so that the nutrients can be absorbed by the intestines, transported into the bloodstreams, and distributed into the rest of the body.

ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

The endocrine system secretes hormones that aid in metabolism, repair, and development of certain body features. The endocrine system is made up of internal glands and other parts.

SKELETAL SYSTEM

The skeletal system supports, moves, and protects the body. This is known as the body’s central framework. This is made up of bones, connective tissues (such as the cartilage, tendons, and ligaments).

MUSCULAR SYSTEM

The muscular system, through the muscles, enables the walking, talking, eating, and other motions of the different body parts. This system also maintains posture and aids in body circulation.

Reference:

Walker, Richard. (2006) Guide to the Human Body. London: Bounty Books.