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Development of an interactive, FLASH‐animated model for teaching regulation of glomerular filtration
Author(s) -
Gookin Jody,
Lit Ari,
Bonin Alex,
Groch Chris
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.23.1_supplement.773.1
Subject(s) - efferent , renal function , renal blood flow , autoregulation , afferent , hydrostatic pressure , afferent arterioles , blood pressure , blood flow , medicine , vascular resistance , renal physiology , endocrinology , chemistry , computer science , angiotensin ii , physics , thermodynamics
Teaching renal physiology in a manner that promotes an integrated concept of dynamic function is a challenge. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is largely controlled by changes in vascular resistance of the afferent and efferent arterioles. The aim of this teaching project was to develop an interactive model capable of animating 1) the effect of afferent and efferent arteriolar resistance on GFR and 2) the autoregulatory mechanisms by which the kidney controls GFR in response to changes in systemic blood pressure. In the program, afferent and efferent arteriolar resistance are controlled by moving a slider to either constrict or relax positions. For each position the effect on renal blood flow, glomerular hydrostatic pressure, GFR, filtration fraction, and tubular flow are animated and categorically summarized. A "show notes" feature provides a written explanation of the observed physiology. Systemic blood pressure is controlled by moving a slider to the 180, 80 or <60 mmHg positions. Each intervention results in animation of an uncompensated response, followed by increasing levels of autoregulatory responses which are selected by the student. Use of this model may translate into improved problem‐solving skills compared to students receiving traditional instruction in glomerular physiology. Funded by a Teaching Innovation Grant from North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine.