This very second, you have trillions of microorganisms living inside your body — so many that they make up one to three percent of your entire body weight! While you have a sizable combination of bacteria, fungi and viruses swarming around inside you, most microbial cells in your body consist of different types of bacteria, many of them residing in your gut. 

All those gut bacteria have a handful of important jobs to do, including protecting you against pathogens and helping you digest food, which can be especially helpful if you got a little too excited at the all-you-can-eat pizzeria last weekend. Prepare to thank all those tiny bacteria for their hard work as we discuss the important functions that gut bacteria play in our everyday lives and review some tips to help you improve your gut flora.  

What Is Gut Bacteria? 

While you have microbes living on your skin and throughout your body, most of them are bacteria that live in your large intestine, small intestine and stomach. Also known as gut bacteria, this gargantuan number of tiny organisms goes by several other names as well, including: 

• Microflora 
• Microbiome 
• Microbiota 
• Intestinal flora 
• Gut flora 

Regardless of which moniker you use, they all refer to approximately 1,000 species of bacteria that populate your gut, each responsible for various roles in your body. But you’re not born with all these microbes in your body. A baby in utero has an almost entirely sterile gut. It’s not until they make their way through the birth canal that they receive the mother’s vaginal bacteria. While this might not sound glamorous, it’s exactly what a baby needs to begin forming a healthy gut microbiome. 

What Are the Functions of Gut Bacteria? 

In recent years, microbiologists have spent an increasing amount of time determining the role that intestinal flora play in our health. With so many bacteria inside our intestines, it only makes sense that they are somehow significant, right?  

Scientific research shows that gut bacteria may be responsible for multiple roles in our bodies, including the ones listed below. 

Digesting Food 

Some of the first bacteria that babies grow in their gut are called Bifidobacteria. This type of microbe helps us digest the healthy sugars found in breast milk and promotes growth. As our gut flora become more advanced, they help us digest other forms of nutrients too, including:  

• Fiber 
• Complex carbohydrates (like whole grains and vegetables) 
• Proteins 
• Vitamin K

Supporting Your Immune System 

Some of the bacteria in your gut help line your large intestines to keep harmful substances — and leaky gut syndrome — at bay. Helpful bacteria may also work in tandem with your immune system to help fight against pathogen-causing bacteria and communicate with immune cells to control how your body reacts to infection. 

Influencing Brain Function 

Have you ever experienced a case of “the butterflies” in your stomach before a big test or a nerve-wracking first date? According to the American Psychological Association, your gut is tied to your mood, ability to learn, memory and emotions. So, when you find yourself “going with your gut,” it might be because you’re using your second brain — a.k.a. your gut bacteria’s independent nervous system — to help you make some of your decisions.  

In addition, your brain and gut are connected through neurotransmitters. Often produced in your brain, these chemicals are responsible for controlling your feelings and emotions. For example, serotonin is a neurotransmitter that provides feelings of happiness. Not to be outdone, your gut also produces serotonin as well as gamma-aminobutyric acids (GABA), which help regulate negative emotions like anxiety or fear.   

Gut Flora Can Contribute to Health Issues, Too 

Maintaining an unhealthy diet and not getting adequate sleep increases your risk of altering your gut flora’s composition. If you find yourself with an imbalance of the healthy microbes in the gut, it may contribute to certain health problems, such as: 

• Obesity 
• Diabetes 
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) 
• Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS) 
• Metabolic syndrome

How to Improve Gut Flora: Quick Tips 

If you find yourself with more harmful than healthy bacteria, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. With a few changes to your diet, you can begin rebuilding the healthy bacteria in your microbiome. Below are a few tips to implement to get your gut health back on track: 

• Eat a healthy combination of macronutrients such as complex carbs, healthy fats and lean protein. 

• Opt for fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut and kimchi. They all contain the healthy bacteria Lactobacilli, which may lessen disease-causing bacteria in the gut. 

• Incorporate prebiotic foods like artichokes, asparagus, oats and bananas. They stimulate the growth of healthy gut bacteria. 

• Only take antibiotics when necessary. While they work to kill bacteria-causing infections in your body, they also kill good bacteria. 

You’re not the only one who takes gut health seriously — so does the University of Florida. Through our online Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology you can gain a thorough understanding and mastery of the fundamental concepts and methodologies related to the various bodily systems, including a course dedicated to Medical Gastrointestinal Physiology.  

In addition to acquiring the skills that will provide a leg up against the competition, our 12-credit certificate offers multiple benefits for working professionals, including: 

• Entirely online courses 
• Classes available year-round 
• No GRE requirement 
• Affordable tuition 

Apply to our online Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology program today.  

Sources:
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-human-microbiome-project-defines-normal-bacterial-makeup-body
https://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/the-secret-world-inside-you/microbiome-at-birth
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gut-microbiome-and-health#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2
https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-019-0704-8
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2012/09/gut-feeling
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gut-brain-connection
https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-are-your-gut-flora-1944914  

In the United States, approximately 38 million people have diabetes. Within that population, about 95% have type 2 diabetes, a condition that affects your body’s ability to metabolize sugar, otherwise known as glucose. 

In 2017, the FDA approved a new injectable drug called semaglutide that can improve blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. This medication, known as Ozempic — along with similar drugs like Wegovy — has seen rapid adoption in medicine, with prescriptions increasing by 300% from 2020 to 2023 alone.  

However, since Wegovy is a weight loss medication containing the same main component as Ozempic, it raises the question: Does Ozempic primarily treat diabetes or weight loss? 

Join us as we explore how scientists are working to gain a better understanding of Ozempic’s uses and why it’s become so popular in recent years. 

What Is Ozempic — and What Does It Treat? 

Ozempic is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by improving blood sugar levels over the long term, which is measured by reducing a person’s HbA1c (hemoglobin A1c) levels. Additionally, regular use of Ozempic may help lower the risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes in individuals with type 2 diabetes and heart disease. 

How Does Ozempic Work? 

The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). When it activates the GLP-1 receptors, Ozempic enhances your body’s ability to control blood sugar by:  

• Telling your pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar is high. 

• Blocking the release of a hormone called glucagon, which can make your liver release extra sugar into your blood. 

• Slowing down the rate at which food moves through your intestines, lowering the amount of sugar that enters your bloodstream after you eat. 

• Making you feel full, leading to less food consumption. 

Is Ozempic a Weight Loss Aid? 

In short, no — although one of the common side effects of Ozempic is its ability to help some users lose weight. In a recent Forbes article, Dr. Christopher McGowan explained that in addition to Ozempic’s effects on blood glucose, the active ingredient, semaglutide, also impacts the hunger centers in the brain, reducing feelings of hunger and food cravings. 

While not approved by the FDA as a weight-loss medication, its sister drug, Wegovy, received approval for use by overweight individuals or those with cardiovascular disease in 2021. The key difference between Ozempic and Wegovy is the dosage, with Wegovy offering a higher dose of semaglutide to aid weight loss (alongside a healthy diet and exercise). 

So, although the main function of Ozempic isn’t to help people lose weight, its inclusion of semaglutide often results in weight loss as a side effect experienced by many users. Because type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity, its potential to assist in weight loss may also help individuals manage their condition more effectively and improve their overall health.  

Amp Up Your Career in Medicine With a Graduate Credential From UF 

Whether you’re interested in a career in drug development or sales and marketing, the University of Florida offers an online master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology tailored to helping you achieve your goals in the medical industry.  

This entirely online program, developed by two renowned departments at UF, consists of 30 credits divided into two core areas, each comprising 15 credits. The program aims to provide you with an advanced scientific understanding of medical physiology, which focuses on the major human body systems, and medical pharmacology, which examines the impact of drugs on living organisms at the cellular and molecular levels.  

With asynchronous courses, you can complete coursework on a timeline that coordinates with your busy schedule, finishing the program in as little as two semesters. 

If you’re curious about some of our other medical physiology programs, we have several other specialized programs, depending on your interests and career aspirations, including: 

• Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology 

If you have questions about any of our programs, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information. And when you’re ready to make the first move toward making your career dreams a reality, the application is only a click away. 

Sources: 
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss
https://www.ozempic.com/why-ozempic/how-ozempic-works.html
https://www.forbes.com/health/weight-loss/ozempic-for-weight-loss/
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-treatment-reduce-risk-serious-heart-problems-specifically-adults-obesity-or 

In 1976, researchers first identified a frightening virus that had emerged in the African nation then known as Zaire. The source of this fast-moving, destructive disease remains unknown, but Ebola is believed to have spread to humans from apes, monkeys and bats. There have been several Ebola outbreaks since 1976, primarily in African countries, though the disease has been found in animals originating from Asia as well.  

The most consequential outbreak became a worldwide epidemic: Beginning in Guinea in 2013, the disease spread to other West African countries and later Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States, eventually killing more than 11,000 people over a period of two and a half years. 

What Is Ebola? 

Viewed through a microscope, Ebola looks somewhat like a worm that’s knotted and looped at one end. Like many diseases, it may not be easily recognized by its symptoms, since it shares early symptoms common in many other diseases, including those that indicate a far less serious condition. These symptoms may appear up to three weeks after exposure to the virus and include: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Aches 
• Fatigue 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Unusual bruising 
• Bleeding from multiple orifices

How Ebola Enters the Body 

Humans can contract the virus through contact with infected animal blood and tissue, often via hunting and eating carriers of the disease or being bitten by one of them. The infected individual may then expose others to the disease through their bodily fluids, which can enter the body through a wound, the mucous membranes of the face, or intimate contact. Even a person who has died from Ebola can remain contagious, so their bodies must be handled with care.  

What Ebola Does Once Inside the Body  

Ebola immediately attacks the immune system that was designed to fight it, leaving immune cells unresponsive, then rapidly replicates itself and spreads through the bloodstream. Other infected immune cells throughout the body cause clots that rob organs of essential blood. The virus does some of its most catastrophic damage by inhibiting plasma production, though other organs and systems are also impacted as the disease makes its way through the body.  

Many patients die from Ebola: up to 90%, with an average of 50%. Having quality medical care and a strong immune system can increase one’s odds of recovery. End-stage symptoms may include brain inflammation and organ failure. Medical experts believe that Ebola survivors may develop some immunity, as antibodies stay in their blood for up to a decade.  

Discover How Disease and Other Factors Affect Our Body Systems 

As you’ve seen, Ebola can wreak havoc throughout the body, impacting many organs and often resulting in death. The University of Florida is proud to offer two entirely online Master of Science programs that provide different perspectives on the body systems, their organs and factors that can affect them:  

Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology 

Acquire a comprehensive scientific understanding of key human body systems, delve into the effects of drugs on living organisms at cellular and molecular tiers, and explore both normal and abnormal conditions in human body systems. Finish this 30-credit degree program in as little as two semesters. 

Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Physiology and Aging 

Develop a more expansive and profound understanding of the biological processes associated with aging. Finish this 30-credit degree program in as little as one year. 

Students who have completed a science-oriented bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution and meet the other requirements are invited to apply to these master’s degree programs! Both empower you to: 

• Prepare for the MCAT. 
• Get started with no GRE requirement. 
• Earn your degree with no campus or lab visits. Cut your time to completion by transferring credits from a UF graduate certificate program: 
  • Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology (9-14 credits) 
  • Graduate Certificate in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology (12 credits) 

A Path to Higher Earnings 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median earnings of those who hold a master’s degree are about 16% higher than those whose highest education credential is a bachelor’s degree. BLS data also shows that graduate degree holders are more likely to remain employed. Our medical physiology master’s degrees can be your path to higher earnings and greater job security! 

A Flexible, High-Quality Learning Experience 

We offer our master’s degree and graduate certificate programs through an asynchronous online format that enables you to complete coursework at your own pace from just about anywhere in the world. This flexibility makes it possible for you to earn one or more graduate credentials without taking time away from your daily professional and personal commitments. What’s more, our programs are as comprehensive as they are convenient and feature a robust curriculum taught by the same acclaimed faculty who teach our medical physiology programs on campus. 

Bring the benefits of a master’s degree in medical physiology to your career! 

Sources:
https://time.com/3502740/ebola-virus-1976/
https://www.itg.be/en/health-stories/impact-stories/the-discovery-of-and-research-on-the-ebola-virus

There’s nothing worse than feeling a tinge of discomfort in your throat alerting you that something’s not quite right. When it’s accompanied by a sudden bout of sneezes or a slight fever, you know that it’s time to accept the inevitable: A pathogen has staked its claim in your body, and you’re officially getting sick. 

Long before you feel that first tickle, however, your immune system is already hard at work fighting the good fight against the pathogens causing those symptoms. 

The immune system has multiple lines of defense designed to help you maintain a clean bill of health, but it’s not an exact science. Occasional illnesses are a part of life, even with a healthy immune system. 

Today, we’re dissecting the three strategies the immune system has in place to keep unwanted illnesses at bay. 

What Is the Immune System? 

When you think of your immune system, what do you see? A tiny but mighty army defending its fortress (a.k.a. you)? You’re not wrong! The immune system is our body’s first wall of defense when we encounter antigens and pathogens attempting to nonchalantly sneak past those defenses. 

The immune system is composed of specialized cells that work to identify and eliminate invaders. Like an army, our immune systems use multiple layers of defense to keep those pathogens at bay. 

The Immune System’s Three Lines of Defense 

What are the three lines of defense in the immune system? And are they akin to defensive tiers in football, where the first line of defense represents the biggest and best and the second and third lines act as backup?  

Not quite. 

While each line of defense plays a vital role in the immune system’s function, one isn’t inherently more important than the others. Although certain defenses may be more effective against specific pathogens in specific situations, they all collaborate to shield your body from harmful invaders to ensure your well-being. 

Below, we break down your immune system’s three primary lines of defense, exploring what makes each one unique and how they work to effectively keep your body safe against pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria. 

#1 Physical Barriers 

When a pathogen tries to enter your body, the first line of defense it’s up against is our external physical barriers, such as our skin, sweat, saliva and tears. These barriers offer a basic yet effective barrier of protection against unwanted microorganisms. 

Other physical barriers include:  

• Mucous membranes 
  These slimy membranes line our nose, throat, intestines and reproductive tract and trap microbes we come into contact with as we breathe and eat. 

• Nasal hairs 
  The hairs inside your nasal cavity have more responsibilities than causing the occasional sneeze. They also trap pathogens and environmental pollutants, such as pollen and dust (hence the sneezing). 

• Acidic fluids 
  Urine, gastric juices and vaginal secretions create low pH conditions, which aren’t hospitable for pathogens and often destroy them. 

#2 Innate Immune System 

When pathogens bypass the physical barriers, they come across our bodies’ second line of defense: the innate immune system. Rather than targeting particular pathogens, this defense provides an immediate response to any pathogens it detects. Using phagocytes, a broad type of white blood cell, the innate immune system engulfs, digests and eliminates pathogens as they wander through your body. 

#3 Adaptive Immune System 

While slower acting than the innate immune system, the final line of defense—the adaptive immune system— often defends your body with more precision. It works by using memory cells that target germs you’ve encountered previously, thus providing a quick response upon being re-exposed. 

The adaptive immune system is why we usually get certain illnesses, like chicken pox, just once in our lives. After fighting off the virus, our bodies build a natural immunity to it, recognizing it the next time our bodies come into contact with it and destroying it on site. 

The adaptive immune response begins with dendritic cells, which capture and present fragments of the pathogen to helper T cells in nearby lymph nodes. The helper T cells send signals to other immune cells known as B cells, telling them to produce the antibodies that will target the invading pathogen. This creates memory cells that can recognize and neutralize the threat if you’re re-exposed to it. 

The University of Florida: Your Pathway to Success 

While each line of defense may be referred to as first, second and third, they all play crucial roles in maintaining our body’s health against COVID-19, the flu, the common cold and other viruses. 

Understanding the importance of these defenses can inspire individuals to pursue careers in immunology and related fields. If you’re interested in developing vaccines or becoming involved in cutting-edge medical research, the University of Florida offers several online graduate programs tailored to help you achieve your professional goals: 

• Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology 
• Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology 

All of our programs offer online students the following advantages: 

• Asynchronous classes that allow you to complete your coursework on your schedule 
• Year-round start dates 
• No GRE requirements 
• Affordable tuition costs 
• A renowned education from U.S. News’ top 10 public universities in the nation

Discover the program that aligns with your passions, and start your application today! 

Sources:
https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-are-the-Three-Lines-of-Defense.aspx
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279396/ 

The Dangers of Stopping Antidepressants Cold Turkey 

Antidepressant medications can be extremely effective in helping people cope with potentially debilitating conditions. Often, these medications don’t make a person feel “good” so much as level out their emotions to make them feel normal or stable. Without such medications, many people experience something akin to a frightening roller coaster ride that fluctuates uncontrollably between differing levels of depression. 

The key to ensuring a positive experience with antidepressants is knowing when and how to discontinue their use. If depression symptoms have diminished, a doctor may recommend that a patient begin the process of weaning themselves off a medication. This typically involves a gradual reduction in dosage until the patient is deemed fit to discontinue use of the drug altogether. Physicians rarely if ever have patients stop using a drug all at once — “cold turkey” — and with good reason.  

What Are the Risks of Discontinuing Antidepressants Cold Turkey? 

Antidepressant withdrawal, also known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, is a possible consequence of discontinuing an antidepressant too abruptly. If a patient experiences withdrawal related to antidepressants, it doesn’t indicate that they’ve become addicted to them. Rather, addiction-related withdrawal is typically accompanied by uncontrollable cravings for more of the drug and indicates that the brain has undergone a chemical change. 

Quitting antidepressants suddenly can trigger a host of conditions equal to or worse than the condition they were intended to treat and can sometimes undo the real progress made toward conquering depression. Potential complications include: 

• Digestive system issues 
• Headaches  
• Fatigue 
• Insomnia 
• Flu-like symptoms 
• A return of severe depression and/or anxiety 

Antidepressants are designed to remedy the imbalance of chemicals in the brain that can cause depression. The abrupt cessation of antidepressants can create a new kind of chemical imbalance, resulting side effects like the ones listed above. That’s why it’s always best to taper off an antidepressant dosage rather than stop using it cold turkey. 

Graduate-Level Studies in Physiology and Pharmacology 

Explore the impact of antidepressants and other drugs on the brain and the rest of the nervous system, as well as the cardiovascular, digestive, renal and other major body systems. Delivered entirely online through our renowned College of Medicine, the University of Florida’s graduate programs in medical physiology take a deep dive into the functioning of the human body and the factors that affect it, both harmful and helpful.  

These programs are presented in an asynchronous online format that gives you the freedom to complete coursework on your own schedule from virtually anywhere in the world. Whether you’re earning a master’s degree or a graduate certificate, you won’t have to take time away from other important commitments such as work and family. Let’s review these flexible programs now: 

Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology 

As a student in our online master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology program, you’ll review the various systems of the human body and see how drugs and organisms can alter how they function. Our program’s curriculum is designed to help you prepare for the National Board, MCAT and other crucial exams that can empower you to advance in a medical career or a related field. And there are many other program benefits:  

• Finish a graduate degree in as little as one year. 
• Complete coursework at your own pace. 
• Develop the clinical knowledge that you’ll need to succeed in medical school. 
• Get started without taking the GRE. 
• Take advantage of several financial aid options, if needed. 
• Build valuable leadership skills. 
• Add a revered graduate credential to your resume. 

Graduate Certificate Programs 

Already in a medical career? We can help you excel at what you do by strengthening your understanding of the rudiments of physiology with an emphasis on the major organ systems of the human body. If you already hold a master’s degree and want to gain new skills and credentials that will improve your job performance, you’ll also find our Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology very beneficial. You can complete this program with as little as 9 credits, giving you the potential to collect your certificate after just one semester!  

Essential for anyone who works in a clinical setting, our 12-credit Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology provides a review of cardiovascular and renal health and changes that can occur to their functioning as a result of disease. Students are often able to finish this program in as little as two semesters.  

Combine Programs to Earn Two Respected Credentials  

Have you previously completed either a Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology or a Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology? If so, you may already be halfway to earning a master’s degree! Our 30-credit master’s degree program accepts up to 15 credits from either of those graduate certificate programs. These programs work seamlessly together to provide a complex and essential understanding of physiology and pharmacology — and two career-enhancing credentials. 

Get the full picture of how drugs and organisms impact human bodies through one or more online graduate programs from the University of Florida. 

Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressant-withdrawal/faq-20058133
https://www.prevention.com/life/a20509451/what-happens-when-you-stop-taking-antidepressants/
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/dangers-of-stopping-antidepressants  

Did you know that the total length of blood vessels in the human body amounts to approximately 60,000 miles? To put that into perspective, it’s like traveling from New York City to Los Angeles — and back — approximately 24 times. That’s an extensive network of vessels in one person! 

Yet, just a few hundred years ago, estimating this number would have been purely speculative (and likely vastly underestimated). So how did we uncover this and many other fascinating insights about our internal workings? 

It all began with the study of physiology, which has evolved into several specialized subfields over time. Today, we’re delving into the history of medical physiology, tracing its journey from its origins within general physiology to its emergence as a distinct field within the healthcare industry. 

What Is Medical Physiology? 

Before we dive into the history of medical physiology as we know it today, let’s break down the difference between medical physiology and its predecessor, physiology.  

Medical physiology is a specialized branch of physiology that examines the functioning of the human body in the context of health and disease. In contrast, physiology encompasses the broader functions of various living organisms, including humans, plants and animals. 

Professionals use physiology in many industries, including biology, environmental science, agriculture and medicine. Medical physiology, on the other hand, provides crucial insights for medical diagnoses, guides clinical practice, informs treatment decisions and improves patient care. 

The Evolution of Medical Physiology 

How did medical physiology evolve into such an advanced discipline, and what does its future hold? Below, we explore how this branch of medicine transformed from its primitive origins to the sophisticated field it has become today. 

Ancient Roots 

Physiology dates back thousands of years to ancient Greece, India and Egypt. Hippocrates, the great “father of medicine” is responsible for creating the theory of the body’s four humors. He believed that every human body contained four bodily fluids: yellow bile, black bile, phlegm and blood, and that any changes in their normal ratio caused illness.  

While his theory didn’t quite prove to be correct, he did establish the ethical standards that the medical community uses to this day, known today as the Hippocratic Oath. His teachings outlined clinicians’ duties of justice, secrecy, respect for teachers and solidarity amongst peers. 

The Renaissance 

During the Renaissance period (roughly the 14th to 17th century), the study of the human body’s functions expanded dramatically. Several men played crucial roles in the advancement of physiology, including: 

• Andreas Vesalius
  In the 1500s, anatomist Andreas Vesalius began dissecting human corpses, improving the medical community’s understanding of the body’s structure and anatomy. His efforts came during a time when anatomy was seen by many as a lesser branch of medicine. 

• William Harvey
  Harvey was one of the pioneers of experimental physiology and the first doctor to describe the circulation and properties of blood, noting how the heart pumps blood through the body. 

• Girolamo Fracastoro
  This Italian doctor hypothesized that epidemics may be caused by pathogens outside the body, a novel idea during a time when the understanding of microorganisms was limited. 

The Creation of Specialized Fields 

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, as research on physiology became more prevalent, multidisciplinary specialties emerged within the discipline. One such specialty was medical physiology, which focused on a range of bodily functions including circulation, digestion, metabolism, reproduction and respiration. 

As scientists began to learn more about these functions, medical physiology diverged into several of its own subspecialties, some of which include: 

• Cardiovascular physiology 
  This field focuses on the function of the heart, blood and blood vessels. Over time, cardiovascular physiology has evolved to include heart-related diseases and explores improved treatment options for individuals affected by them.
• Renal physiology 
  This area of physiology centers on the kidneys and their role in filtering waste from the body, regulating blood pressure and maintaining fluid balance. Professionals in renal physiology often engage in the study of kidney disease and collaborate with patients to diagnose and manage various renal disorders.
• Gastrointestinal physiology 
  While the study of the gastrointestinal tract dates back centuries, recent advancements in research have provided medical professionals with a better understanding of its structure and functions. Topics such as nutrient absorption, digestive enzymes, the gut microbiome and appetite regulation are now more accurately investigated. 
• Musculoskeletal physiology 
  Focused on the functions of muscles, bones and joints, musculoskeletal physiology explores the effects of exercise and physical activity on the body. Additionally, this field addresses disorders such as osteoporosis, muscular dystrophy and osteoarthritis. 

Become an Integral Part of the Future of Medical Physiology

Technological advancements like 3D bioprinting and AI-based predictive models and personalized treatment strategies are paving the way for a promising future in medical physiology. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on multidisciplinary physiology, leveraging expertise from various fields to tackle intricate questions concerning human health and disease. 

The future of medical physiology is bright. If you’re interested in becoming part of this expanding field, a graduate credential from the University of Florida could be the first step in helping you achieve your goals.  

We offer several programs that are entirely online and provide worthwhile benefits for busy working professionals, such as: 

• The flexibility to complete your coursework at your convenience. 
• Affordable tuition rates. 
• Year-round start dates. 
• No GRE requirements. 
• The prestige of earning a graduate credential from one of U.S. News’ top 50 universities. 

Browse our program offerings to find the program that best aligns with your career goals and contact us with any questions you may have. Once you’re ready, apply to your program of choice and embark on your journey toward academic excellence and professional success. 

Sources: 

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21640-blood-vessels 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323533#renaissance 

If you’re considering a career in renal healthcare or are simply curious about organ functionality, you may have pondered the changes in your kidney health over time. While kidneys would ideally function flawlessly from birth to the golden years, that’s not the case. We experience countless changes as we progress through life, and our renal systems are no exception, undergoing their own evolutionary process. 

In this article, we will explore the fundamental functions of the kidneys and how their health can evolve throughout an individual’s lifetime. 

What Do the Kidneys Do, Exactly? 

Kidney beans earned their name for a reason: They share a resemblance with the two kidneys situated below your rib cage. These fist-sized organs play a crucial role in how your body functions. They’re part of the urinary system, which comprises the bladder, ureters and urethra. 

The kidneys’ primary function is to filter about 150 quarts of blood each day, removing waste and maintaining a healthy balance of water, minerals and salts. The filtered waste transforms into urine, which then travels through the ureter to the bladder, ultimately being expelled from the body. 

Kidney Health From Infancy to Geriatrics 

Below, we break down how your kidneys’ function and overall health alters throughout a person’s lifespan: 

Infants 

At around 36 weeks in utero, a baby’s kidneys reach structural completion. Despite this, their renal function remains immature, meaning that they’re not yet operating at optimal capacity. Fortunately, in the first few weeks after birth, as the baby adapts to breathing air and feeding, renal function matures rapidly. 

Children 

Throughout childhood and adolescence, the kidneys typically operate normally, working 24 hours a day to filter blood and eliminate waste from the body. However, some children are diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal failure. Approximately 10,000 children in the United States fall under this category and depend on dialysis treatments until they can undergo a kidney transplant. 

There are several potential causes of kidney disease in children, including: 

• Birth defects 
• Hereditary diseases 
• Infection  
• Nephrotic syndrome 
• Urine blockage 

Adults 

The most effective method for assessing kidney function is by measuring a person’s Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR). This measurement indicates how well the glomeruli, the small structures in the kidneys responsible for filtering blood, are functioning. 

Most people have their highest (and healthiest) GFR rates around the age of 30, with a number anywhere from 90 to 120. At this point, a person’s GFR usually begins a very gradual decline that will continue dropping for the remainder of their lives. However, a slow decrease in GFR is normal and isn’t usually a cause for concern. 

Older Adults 

Around the age of 60, a person’s risk of CKD increases as their kidney function decreases. John Hopkins University estimates that more than half of seniors over age 75 have kidney disease. Not all people with kidney disease notice symptoms, so it’s important to schedule regular checkups with your doctor and test for kidney disease annually. 

Tips for Maintaining Tip-Top Kidney Health 

Besides consulting your primary care physician for assessments of your kidney and overall organ health, there are daily activities you can include in your routine to maintain optimal kidney health:  

• Stay hydrated
  One way to help your kidneys is by drinking water throughout the day. Being hydrated can help you flush out toxins more quickly and lubricate your joints. It’s a win-win!

• Incorporate a diet for kidney health 
  Blood pressure plays a role in your kidney health, so try to limit your sodium intake. In addition, focus on heart-healthy foods that minimize the amount of fat building up in your kidneys, such as lean meats, fish, beans, vegetables, fruits and low-fat dairy products. 

• Monitor your blood pressure 
  Incorporate multiple strategies to keep your blood pressure within a healthy range. Consider adding regular exercise to your schedule, limiting alcohol intake and effectively managing your stress levels. These lifestyle adjustments can help support optimal blood pressure levels, as maintaining normal blood pressure is crucial for safeguarding your kidney health. 

• Avoid excess caffeine 
  We appreciate a hot cup of coffee as much as the next person, but too much caffeine can lead to dehydration, which makes it harder for your kidneys to adequately filter blood. Aim for a maximum of 400 milligrams of caffeine each day, while drinking plenty of water in between caffeinated beverages. 

Gain Insight Into Renal Physiology With an Online Graduate Certificate From UF 

If you’re interested in kidney health across all age groups, there are numerous career paths in renal medicine to explore, including roles such as nephrologist, renal nurse, transplant coordinator or renal pharmacist. 

No matter which career piques your interest, the first step to becoming a medical professional is choosing a graduate program that’ll distinguish you from other med school applicants. That’s where UF comes in. 

Our 12-credit online Graduate Certificate in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology is ideal for busy working students interested in gaining a wealth of knowledge about advanced renal physiology and pathophysiology. You can complete the coursework at your own pace, earning your graduate certificate in as little as one year or in a timeframe that aligns with your schedule. 

Ready to jumpstart your career in renal medicine? Apply to our graduate certificate program today! 

Sources: 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8006805/ 

https://nccd.cdc.gov/ckd/AreYouAware.aspx?emailDate=July_2017 

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/children

https://www.kidney.org/kidneydisease/siemens_hcp_gf 

https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/water-and-healthier-drinks.html 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/caffeine/art-20045678 

Insulin, “a hormone that helps to regulate blood sugar levels by assisting the transport of glucose from the blood into neighbouring cells,” has traditionally been self-administered by diabetics via an injection in the abdomen. In 2021, the centennial of the discovery of insulin, we take a look at this amazing hormone and just how far insulin delivery has come.  

Early Extraction and Experiments  

In 1921, insulin was first isolated, removed from a subject’s body and used on another subject with diabetes. When tested on animals and humans, insulin samples were successful in lowering recipients’ glucose (blood sugar) level. This success spurred the mass production of insulin by pharmaceutical companies, who used animal insulin as a foundation until a synthetic version was developed. Insulin produced outside a living body has saved the lives of countless diabetics.  

Problems With the Pancreas  

The pancreas, a gland that produces insulin, is part of the body’s endocrine system. When a person has Type 1 diabetes, their pancreas does not create insulin. In Type 2 diabetics, the pancreas either doesn’t create a sufficient amount of insulin or the body doesn’t use it correctly. Modern insulin delivery efforts have centered on creating a type of “artificial pancreas” located outside the body but still able to deliver insulin as needed. 

The Latest Insulin Delivery Systems 

As new automated technologies focused on automatic insulin delivery (AID) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) emerge, the days of having to inject oneself with insulin multiple times daily are in the past for many diabetics. The inconvenience of dealing with needles while at work or running errands has driven the development of devices such as insulin pumps: compact devices capable of delivering a constant supply of insulin through the skin near the abdomen via a small tube or catheter. They can be attached to a belt, an armband or under clothing.  

Let’s look at some of these modern methods of insulin delivery and how they have made staying healthy more convenient for diabetics: 

First Automated Insulin Delivery System 

Just a few short years ago, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the first automated insulin delivery device, known as the MiniMed 670G. This was essentially the artificial pancreas diabetics had been hoping for, though it did not cure diabetes so much as streamline treatment. The device has a small needle that monitors glucose levels 24/7 and a pump that provides an insulin boost as needed.  

First Pediatric Automated Insulin Delivery and Monitoring System 

While previous insulin delivery technology was geared toward teen and adult diabetics, in 2020 the FDA approved a device that would provide automated insulin delivery and monitoring for diabetics from ages 2 through 6. The MiniMed 770G allows young children to receive their insulin doses when they’re at daycare or otherwise away from their parents. It’s also beneficial in situations where children may resist receiving injections.  

Improved Glycemic Control 

Receiving insulin is not without its dangers. If the dose is too high, it can trigger hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can cause seizures or even death. Among teens and young adults living with Type 1 diabetes, Medtronic’s Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop (AHCL) system has offered greater control over blood sugar levels than previous AID equipment. 

Tubeless and Tapped In 

AID equipment in development, planned for or already available in 2021 includes less intrusive tubeless models, Bluetooth-enabled devices and pumps that deliver instant information to mobile apps. 

Build Expertise in Endocrine System Function and Beyond 

The University of Florida’s acclaimed College of Medicine offers online graduate degree and certificate  programs with courses dedicated to the endocrine system and other systems of the human body. All programs are delivered entirely online through a virtual classroom that enables you to complete coursework at your own pace, from almost any location. No campus-based classes are required. 

Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology 

Our online master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology provides comprehensive scientific knowledge about how the human body’s major systems relate to physiology and pharmacology. In addition, our program prepares you for National Board, MCAT and other important exams required for medical school admission and career advancement. 

If you’ve already earned a Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology or a Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology  from UF, you’re halfway to completion of your master’s degree. Our master’s degree program requires 30 credits and lets you transfer up to 15 credits from either of those graduate certificate programs. As a student in our master’s degree program, you’ll also be able to: 

• Complete courses anywhere, at your own pace. 
• Skip the GRE. 
• Build clinical knowledge that can set you up for success in medical school. 
• Collect your degree in as little as one year. 
• Apply for financial aid, if needed. 
• Add a respected education credential to your resume. 

Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology  

This graduate certificate program investigates the basics of medical physiology and explores the various systems of the human body. You can complete this 9- to 14-credit program in as little as one semester.  

Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology 

This 12-credit graduate certificate program delivers advanced instruction in cardiovascular and renal physiology and pathophysiology research that will help you in a clinical setting. 

Develop your expertise about the systems of the human body in one or more of the University of Florida’s online medical physiology programs.   

Sources:
https://diatribe.org/automated-insulin-delivery
https://diatribe.org/tech-horizon-automated-insulin-delivery-systems-coming-2020
https://www.endocrineweb.com/guides/insulin/insulin-pump-overview
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7261311/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27820140/
https://socratic.org/questions/what-body-system-is-the-pancreas-a-part-of
https://www.biospace.com/article/tubeless-insulin-pump-market-2021-top-trends-statistics-growth-forecasts-2025/