Do you have a passion for the human body and how it functions? Are you fascinated by the intricate workings of the digestive system? Then a career in Gastroenterology might just be the perfect fit for you! Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on the digestive system and its associated organs. Gastroenterologists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from common digestive issues like acid reflux and ulcers, to more complex diseases like Crohn's disease and liver cancer. They use a variety of tools and techniques, including endoscopy and imaging tests, to help their patients achieve optimal digestive health. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in Gastroenterology is the variety of specialties within the field. Gastroenterologists can choose to focus on areas like hepatology (liver disease), pediatric gastroenterology, or inflammatory bowel disease, among others. This allows for a diverse range of career opportunities and the chance to make a real impact in a specific area of interest. To become a Gastroenterologist, you'll need to complete extensive education and training. This typically includes a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field like biology or chemistry, followed by medical school and a residency program in internal medicine. After completing a fellowship in Gastroenterology, you'll be eligible for certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine. In addition to a strong educational background, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful in a career in Gastroenterology. These include excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure. Job prospects for Gastroenterologists are strong, with a projected growth rate of 14% over the next decade. There are a variety of potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including hospitals, clinics, and research institutions. Notable examples include the Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the Cleveland Clinic. So if you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career that combines your love of science with a desire to help others, consider a career in Gastroenterology. With a wide range of specialties and strong job prospects, it's a field that offers endless opportunities for growth and impact.

HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is a master of disguise. It can change its outer coat of proteins frequently, making it hard for the immune system to recognise and destroy it. HIV targets Helper T cells, which act as the air traffic controllers of the immune system, coordinating the efforts of other immune cells. If Helper T cells disappear, the whole immune system would have trouble fighting not just HIV but many other illnesses as well. Boosting the immune system against HIV requires getting the Helper T cells back in control. Learning about the immune system and how it works can help you understand how HIV affects the body and how to boost your immune system against it. By exploring this topic through reading, reflection, writing and self-directed projects, you can gain a deeper understanding of the immune system and how to protect yourself from harmful intruders like viruses and bacteria.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to help people breathe easier? If so, a career as a Respiratory Therapist might just be the perfect fit for you! Respiratory Therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of patients with breathing problems, such as asthma, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). As a Respiratory Therapist, you will play a pivotal role in helping patients with respiratory issues breathe more easily. You will work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat respiratory problems, using a variety of techniques such as oxygen therapy, chest physiotherapy, and mechanical ventilation. One of the most appealing aspects of this career is the opportunity to work with a wide range of patients, from premature infants to elderly adults. You may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as neonatal care, critical care, or pulmonary rehabilitation. To become a Respiratory Therapist, you will need to complete a specialized training program, typically at the associate's or bachelor's degree level. Popular undergraduate majors for aspiring Respiratory Therapists include respiratory care, biology, and health sciences. In addition to a strong educational background, successful Respiratory Therapists possess a number of helpful personal attributes, such as strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a passion for helping others. The job outlook for Respiratory Therapists is strong, with a projected growth rate of 19% over the next decade. This means that there will be plenty of job opportunities available for qualified Respiratory Therapists in a variety of settings, from hospitals and clinics to long-term care facilities and home healthcare agencies. Notable employers in this field include major healthcare systems such as Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and Kaiser Permanente, as well as government agencies such as the Veterans Health Administration and the Department of Defense. So if you're looking for a rewarding career in healthcare that allows you to make a real difference in the lives of others, consider becoming a Respiratory Therapist. Your skills and expertise will be in high demand, and you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that you're helping to improve the health and well-being of your patients every day.

Are you passionate about helping people? Do you have a desire to make a difference in the lives of others? If so, a career as a General Practitioner may be the perfect fit for you! General Practitioners, also known as family doctors or primary care physicians, are medical professionals who provide comprehensive healthcare services to patients of all ages. They are often the first point of contact for patients seeking medical attention and are responsible for diagnosing and treating a wide range of illnesses and injuries. One of the most appealing aspects of a career as a General Practitioner is the opportunity to develop long-term relationships with patients and their families. As a family doctor, you will have the chance to get to know your patients on a personal level and provide them with ongoing care throughout their lives. In addition to providing general medical care, General Practitioners may also choose to specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or sports medicine. This allows them to provide more specialized care to patients with specific needs. To become a General Practitioner, you will need to complete a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or pre-med. After completing your undergraduate studies, you will then need to attend medical school and complete a residency program. In addition to formal education and training, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful for success in this field. These include strong communication skills, empathy, attention to detail, and a desire to continuously learn and improve. Job prospects for General Practitioners are strong, with a projected growth rate of 10% over the next decade. There are a wide range of potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Notable employers include the National Health Service in the UK and Kaiser Permanente in the United States. So, if you're looking for a rewarding and fulfilling career in healthcare, consider becoming a General Practitioner. With the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of your patients, it's a career that truly makes a difference.

Do you have a passion for helping children? Do you want to make a difference in their lives? If so, then a career as a Pediatrician may be perfect for you! Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in the care of children, from newborns to teenagers. They play a crucial role in ensuring that children grow up healthy and strong. As a Pediatrician, you will be responsible for diagnosing and treating a wide range of illnesses and injuries that affect children. You will also provide preventive care, such as vaccinations, and help parents and caregivers to understand how to keep their children healthy. One of the most appealing aspects of this career is the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children. You may be the one to identify a serious illness early on, saving a child's life. Or you may be the one to help a child overcome a chronic condition, allowing them to thrive and reach their full potential. Pediatricians can specialize in a variety of areas, such as neonatology, cardiology, or oncology. This allows you to focus on the specific needs of your patients and become an expert in your field. To become a Pediatrician, you will need to complete a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as Biology or Chemistry, followed by four years of medical school. After that, you will need to complete a residency program in Pediatrics, which typically lasts three years. In addition to the required education and training, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in this career. These include empathy, patience, and excellent communication skills. Job prospects for Pediatricians are excellent, with a projected growth rate of 14% over the next decade. There are a wide range of potential employers, including hospitals, private practices, and government agencies. Some notable employers include Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Boston Children's Hospital, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. In conclusion, a career as a Pediatrician can be incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. If you have a passion for helping children and want to make a difference in the world, then this may be the perfect career for you!

Do you have a passion for helping people recover from injuries or illnesses? Are you interested in the human body and how it moves? If so, then a career in Physical Therapy might be the perfect fit for you! Physical Therapy is a field of study that focuses on helping individuals regain movement and function in their bodies after an injury or illness. This field is constantly evolving, with new research and innovations being made every day. Did you know that Physical Therapy can even help athletes improve their performance and prevent injuries? One of the most inspiring aspects of Physical Therapy is the real-life impact it has on people's lives. For example, a Physical Therapist might work with a stroke patient to help them regain their ability to walk and talk. Or, they might work with an injured athlete to help them get back on the field. Some notable academic figures in the field of Physical Therapy include Dr. Shirley Sahrmann, who has made significant contributions to the understanding of movement impairments, and Dr. Michael Johnson, who has developed innovative techniques for treating spinal cord injuries. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules in Physical Therapy include anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and biomechanics. Students can then specialize in areas such as sports medicine, pediatrics, or geriatrics. For example, a Physical Therapist who specializes in sports medicine might work with a professional sports team to prevent and treat injuries. There are a wide range of potential future jobs and roles in Physical Therapy. Some examples include working in a hospital or clinic, working in a school or sports team, or even starting your own private practice. Notable employers in this field include the Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. To succeed in Physical Therapy, it's important to have excellent communication skills, as well as a strong knowledge of anatomy and physiology. A passion for helping others and a desire to constantly learn and grow are also important attributes for success in this field. In summary, Physical Therapy is an exciting and rewarding field of study that offers a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you're interested in working with athletes, children, or the elderly, there is something for everyone in this field. So why not explore this fascinating field further and see where it takes you?

In "The Neuroscientist Who Lost Her Mind," author Lipska takes readers on a journey through her own brain, as she battles metastatic melanoma and experiences symptoms of mental disorders such as schizophrenia. With her scientific knowledge, Lipska is able to identify the changes in her brain during treatment, providing a unique perspective on the intersection of neuroscience and cancer. Her memoir is a testament to the power of strength, courage, and a supportive network in the face of illness. Recommended for those interested in neuroscience, cancer research, and mental health, "The Neuroscientist Who Lost Her Mind" offers a unique perspective on the impact of cancer on the brain. Lipska's personal experience highlights the importance of a strong support system and the resilience of the human brain. This memoir will be particularly relevant to those in the medical field, as well as patients and caregivers dealing with cancer and its effects on the mind and body.

UCLA scientists have identified how immune cells detect and respond to cancer cells, leading to better personalized immunotherapies for patients who do not respond to treatment. Checkpoint inhibitors improve T cells' ability to recognize and attack cancer cells, and the study showed that when immunotherapy is effective, it directs a diverse repertoire of T cells against a small group of selected mutations in a tumor. The researchers adapted advanced gene-editing technology to make unprecedented observations about immune responses in patients with metastatic melanoma receiving anti-PD-1 "checkpoint inhibitor" immunotherapy.

Are you fascinated by the human body and how it functions? Do you have a passion for science and medicine? If so, then studying Pathology at the undergraduate level may be the perfect fit for you. Pathology is the study of disease, specifically how diseases affect the body and how they can be diagnosed and treated. This field of study incorporates aspects of anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and immunology, making it a truly interdisciplinary subject. By studying Pathology, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how diseases develop and how they can be treated, which is essential for the advancement of modern medicine. One of the most interesting aspects of Pathology is the constant innovation and research within the field. From developing new treatments for cancer to understanding the mechanisms of infectious diseases, Pathology is at the forefront of medical research. Some of the most inspiring academic discourse has come from figures such as Dr. Anthony Fauci, who has been instrumental in shaping our understanding of infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS and COVID-19. At the undergraduate level, you will typically take courses in general pathology, microbiology, and immunology, among others. You may also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as forensic pathology or molecular pathology. For example, you could study how forensic pathologists use their knowledge of pathology to help solve crimes or how molecular pathology is used to diagnose and treat cancer. The potential careers in Pathology are diverse and exciting. You could work as a pathologist, diagnosing diseases and helping to develop new treatments. Or, you could work in research, developing new treatments or studying the mechanisms of diseases. Some of the most notable employers in Pathology include the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson. To succeed in Pathology, you should have a strong interest in science and medicine, as well as excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. You should also have a keen eye for detail and be able to work well under pressure. In conclusion, studying Pathology at the undergraduate level is an excellent choice for anyone interested in science, medicine, and the human body. With its innovative research, exciting career opportunities, and interdisciplinary approach, Pathology is a field that is sure to inspire and challenge you.

Childhood cancer is a devastating disease that affects thousands of children every year. However, as cancer is more likely to occur in adults rather than children, research on childhood cancer is often underfunded, leading to fewer treatment options and lower survival rates. One of the biggest challenges in treating childhood cancer is the risk of long-term side effects from chemotherapy and radiation. These treatments can cause developmental delays, learning disabilities, and even secondary cancers later in life. As a result, new treatment strategies are being developed to minimize these risks. One of the most promising new approaches is immunotherapy, a type of treatment that harnesses the power of the immune system to attack cancer cells. CAR T-cell therapy, in which T-cells are genetically engineered to recognize and attack cancer cells, has shown particularly promising results in clinical trials. Another challenge in treating childhood cancer is the lack of targeted therapies. Unlike adult cancers, childhood cancers often have no known driver mutations that can be targeted with precision medicine. Researchers are working to identify new drug targets and develop new treatments that can attack cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. Dr. Kimberly Stegmaier, an oncologist and researcher at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, is one of the leading experts in childhood cancer research. She and her team are working to identify new drug targets and develop targeted therapies for childhood cancers. They are also studying the genetic and molecular characteristics of childhood cancers to better understand how they develop and how they can be treated. In conclusion, childhood cancer presents unique challenges that require innovative solutions. While underfunded research and the lack of targeted therapies have made progress difficult, recent developments in immunotherapy, such as CAR T-cell therapy, show promising results. As we continue to fight for a cure, let us also remember the children and families affected by this disease and strive to support them in any way we can.

Medical research is a fascinating field of study that explores the complexities of the human body and its many diseases. It's an exciting area of research that is constantly evolving, with new discoveries and innovations being made every day. One of the most appealing aspects of medical research is the potential to make a real difference in people's lives. Researchers in this field are at the forefront of developing new treatments and therapies for a wide range of illnesses, from cancer to Alzheimer's disease. One example of groundbreaking research in this field is the development of immunotherapy, a treatment that harnesses the power of the immune system to fight cancer. This innovative approach has already helped to save countless lives and is just one example of the many exciting breakthroughs being made in medical research. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take a variety of modules that cover topics such as genetics, molecular biology, and epidemiology. These modules provide a solid foundation in the basic principles of medical research and prepare students for further specialisation in areas such as cancer research or infectious diseases. Potential future jobs and roles in medical research include positions as research scientists, clinical trial coordinators, and medical writers. There are also many opportunities to work in public health or in the pharmaceutical industry, with notable employers including the National Institutes of Health, Pfizer, and GlaxoSmithKline. To succeed in this field of study, students should have a strong interest in science and a passion for helping others. They should also possess excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Overall, the study of medical research is an exciting and rewarding field that offers endless possibilities for those who are passionate about making a difference in the world of healthcare.

As we grow older, our bodies undergo many changes, including changes in our metabolism. Metabolism refers to the chemical processes that occur in our bodies to maintain life. These processes are essential for providing energy, building and repairing tissues, and eliminating waste products. As we age, our metabolic pathways can become altered, leading to various age-related diseases and conditions. One example of a metabolic pathway that is affected by aging is the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC). The ETC is responsible for producing ATP, the primary source of energy for our cells. As we age, the function of the ETC can become impaired, leading to a decrease in ATP production and an increase in oxidative stress. This can contribute to age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and diabetes. Another example is the mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) pathway, which regulates cellular growth and metabolism. Studies have shown that inhibiting the mTOR pathway can increase lifespan in various model organisms, including mice. This has led to increased interest in developing drugs that target this pathway as a potential anti-aging strategy. One of the leading academics in this field is Dr. David Sinclair, a Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Sinclair's research has focused on the role of metabolism in aging and age-related diseases, and he has made significant contributions to the field. For example, his research has shown that supplementing with NAD+, a molecule involved in energy metabolism, can improve various aspects of aging in mice. Another leading academic in this field is Dr. Valter Longo, a Professor of Gerontology and Biological Science at the University of Southern California. Dr. Longo's research has focused on the role of fasting and caloric restriction in aging and age-related diseases. His work has shown that periodic fasting can have a range of health benefits, including improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation. In conclusion, the study of metabolic pathways in aging is a fascinating and rapidly growing field. By understanding the complex interplay between metabolism and aging, we can better understand the underlying causes of age-related diseases and conditions. Students who are interested in this topic can continue to explore it through reading and research, or by pursuing their own experiments and projects. With the right tools and resources, they can make meaningful contributions to this exciting field and help improve our understanding of aging and metabolic pathways.

Get ready to revolutionize the way we treat cancer and age-related diseases! A new company, GlioQuell, co-founded by Dr. Kambiz Alavian from the Department of Brain Sciences, is developing a cutting-edge approach to target the powerhouses of cancer cells - the mitochondria. By reducing the efficiency of these structures, GlioQuell aims to turn off the cancer cells' energy supply and treat one of the most aggressive forms of cancer - glioblastoma.

Organ transplants are a life-saving medical breakthrough that have revolutionized the field of medicine. Kidneys are essential organs that filter waste material from the blood and process it into urine. A typical dialysis patient has a poorer life expectancy than many cancers. Removing one kidney should not affect someone's lifespan or quality of life. A kidney from a living donor in general will have a much better quality because it comes from a healthy and tested person. Kidneys are expected to survive up to twice as long on average in the recipient. Currently, it's not allowed to donate a kidney under any form of payment. However, incentivizing people to donate more is actually a way to starve black markets. It's not to recreate them, it's to undermine them. If you reward a person amply for the sacrifice they've made, something they go into with their eyes open and well informed, that's not exploitation. Organ donation is an incredible gift that can save someone's life so palpably, and everyone should consider donating.

The eradication of smallpox is one of the most significant events of the 20th century. It is up there with the moon landing. This achievement was made possible by the development of vaccines and the efforts of health workers worldwide. Learning about the history of smallpox and vaccination is not only intellectually stimulating but also practically relevant, particularly in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. By understanding the strategies used to eradicate smallpox, such as tracking, testing, and isolating, we can gain insights into how to keep on top of COVID-19. Moreover, the successful eradication of smallpox gives us hope that we can eradicate other human diseases if we work together. As students, exploring academic topics through reading, reflection, writing, and self-directed projects can help us gain a deeper understanding of the world around us and inspire us to take action to make a positive impact.

Have you ever wondered how diseases spread and how they can be controlled? Are you passionate about improving public health and saving lives? If so, a career in epidemiology might be just what you're looking for! Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of health and disease in populations. It involves investigating patterns and causes of diseases, developing and implementing interventions to prevent and control them, and evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions. Epidemiologists work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, hospitals, universities, research institutions, and non-profit organizations. As an epidemiologist, you could work on a range of public health issues, from infectious diseases like COVID-19 and Ebola to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. You could investigate outbreaks of foodborne illness, design and evaluate vaccination programs, or study the effects of environmental exposures on health. Your work could help to inform public policy, improve health outcomes, and save lives. Typical duties of an epidemiologist include designing and conducting studies, collecting and analyzing data, interpreting results, and communicating findings to stakeholders. Epidemiologists may specialize in specific areas such as infectious disease epidemiology, environmental epidemiology, or social epidemiology. Other related fields include biostatistics, health policy, and global health. To become an epidemiologist, you typically need a graduate degree in epidemiology or a related field such as public health or biostatistics. Popular undergraduate majors include biology, chemistry, mathematics, and statistics. Helpful personal attributes for epidemiologists include strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information to a variety of audiences. Job prospects for epidemiologists are strong, with employment projected to grow faster than average over the next decade. There are a variety of potential employers for epidemiologists, including government agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), hospitals and healthcare systems, universities and research institutions, and non-profit organizations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Doctors Without Borders. Some notable epidemiologists include Dr. Anthony Fauci, Dr. Nancy Messonnier, and Dr. Michael Osterholm. If you're interested in a career in epidemiology, there are many exciting opportunities to explore. With your skills and knowledge, you could make a real difference in improving public health and saving lives.

A groundbreaking study by the University of Oxford as part of the UK's 100,000 Genomes Project has defined five new subgroups of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and linked these to clinical outcomes, paving the way for more personalized patient care. This is the first study to analyze all the relevant changes in DNA across the entire cancer genome!

Cancer is a mysterious and deadly disease that claims the lives of 1500 Americans every day. But why is it so common, and why does treatment often fail? In "Cancer: The Evolutionary Legacy", leading researcher Mel Greaves offers clear and convincing answers to these questions by looking at cancer through a Darwinian lens. Greaves argues that human development has trapped us in a nature-nurture mismatch, causing cancer to thrive. With compelling examples from history and modern research, this fascinating book sheds light on the evolutionary context of cancer and its implications for prevention and treatment. Recommended for biology students, medical professionals, and anyone interested in the evolutionary origins of disease, "Cancer: The Evolutionary Legacy" offers a fresh perspective on this complex and elusive disease. With its lucid and engaging style, this book is accessible to readers of all backgrounds and provides a comprehensive overview of cancer research and treatment. Additionally, those interested in the history of medicine and public health will find the compelling examples from history, including the epidemic of scrotal skin cancer in 18th-century chimney sweeps, to be particularly interesting.

The Truth in Small Doses is a gripping exploration of the war on cancer, revealing why we are losing the fight against this disease despite decades of research and billions of dollars invested. Investigative journalist and cancer survivor Clifton Leaf asks tough questions about why progress has been limited, from the lack of collaboration among scientists to the high cost and frequent failure of new drugs. This eye-opening history inspires conversation and change, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the future of cancer research and treatment. Recommended for students of medicine, biology, and public health, as well as anyone interested in the state of cancer research and treatment. The Truth in Small Doses offers a unique perspective on the war on cancer, asking important questions about the effectiveness of current strategies and the need for change. This book will be of particular interest to those pursuing careers in oncology, as well as patients and families affected by cancer. However, it also has relevance for those in fields such as journalism, business, and government, as it sheds light on the challenges of collaboration and innovation in the face of a complex and devastating disease.

Scientists have developed a groundbreaking treatment for blood cancer using off-the-shelf T-cells. The CALM clinical trial evaluated the potential of UCART19, an "off-the-shelf" CAR-T cell product, against adult patients with B-ALL. The results were recently published in The Lancet Haematology and Cancer Research Communications, showing that 48% of treated patients achieved complete remission lasting an average of 7.4 months. This new approach offers a more efficient and effective alternative to traditional CAR-T cell therapy, providing hope for patients with relapsed or treatment-resistant blood cancers.