Physiology is the study of how the human body works. It describes the chemistry and physics behind basic body functions, from how molecules behave in cells to how systems of organs work together. It helps us understand what happens in a healthy body in everyday life and what goes wrong when someone gets sick.

Most of physiology depends on basic research studies carried out in a laboratory. Some physiologists study single proteins or cells, while others might do research on how cells interact to form tissues, organs, and systems within the body.

Physiology vs. Anatomy
While human anatomy is the study of the body’s structures, physiology is the study of how those structures work. An imaging scan like an X-ray or ultrasound can show your anatomy, but doctors use other tests — like urine and blood tests or electrocardiograms (EKGs) — to reveal details about your body’s physiology.