Physiology
Physiology is defined as the study of living organisms, organs and organ systems and how they function under normal conditions.
Central to the discipline of physiology is the study of mechanical, physical and biochemical processes which help the organisms keep certain characteristics, such as body temperature, at a healthy level.
Another important aspect of physiology is research on how the body reacts to extreme conditions or disease. Such studies can lead to new treatments or pharmacological advances.
Physiology is in some ways the mother of all biomedical research. Very little, if any, research at Karolinska Institutet is wholly without a physiological connection. Among the studies carried out at Karolinska Institutet with the strongest link to physiology is research on how muscle fatigue is brought about or why exercise reduces the risk of various diseases.