How do we breathe? (Lungs and Pleura)
Normal Lung Anatomy The lungs are surrounded by a double membrane called pleura. This membrane has two layers, a parietal pleura and a visceral pleura. The parietal pleura is attached to the chest wall...
View ArticleGas Exchange at the Respiratory Membrane
Gas exchange in the lungs occurs where there is both ventilation and perfusion (blood flow). Areas of the lungs in which gas exchange cannot occur are called anatomical dead space. This is because...
View ArticleHow Do We Breathe? (Muscles and Alveolar Pressure)
Breathing is something we do all the time, often without being aware of it however, when we do, many muscles are actually working together. Before we start, it is important to keep in mind that there...
View ArticleThe Haldane Effect and Uptake of Carbon Dioxide from Tissues
In a previous article, I explained how gases are exchanged at the respiratory membrane. Today, I will be talking about gas exchange at the tissues namely, the unloading of oxygen and loading of carbon...
View ArticleWhy Pancreatic Cells Have More Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
Recently, a question was sent in by one of our readers: It has been found out that certain cells of the pancreas, which synthesize and release digestive enzymes (proteins), have more rough endoplasmic...
View ArticleWhat Happens When We Eat? Gastric Motility
When we eat a meal, we don’t usually think about what is happening in our bodies once we’ve left the dinner table. So what happens when we eat a meal? Gastric secretion begins before you even start...
View ArticleHandling pH: How Your Body Regulates Acididity
When it comes to pH, your body likes to keep a tight control of the balance between acidity and alkalinity. The normal range for pH in your body is between 7.35-7.45 so, very slightly alkaline. At...
View ArticleMedical Terminology Explained
One of the most important foundations when learning anatomy and biology is to know correct terminology and how to use it. Today, I will be discussing some of the most common terms used in these areas....
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