The brain was once thought to be the body's control tower, issuing commands to the other organs. But scientists are discovering that communication flows between all the organs in our bodies. They transmit messages that can boost immunity, improve memory, strengthen bones and even lengthen lifespan. Innovative treatments are being developed to harness the power of this hidden network. But what happens when there's a communication breakdown? We look for clues using the latest technology.
In this episode of "THE BODY," we focus on a pair of small, often-overlooked organs: the kidneys. When people think of the kidneys, one thing probably comes to mind - the role they play in producing urine. But they are key nodes in a vast, internal network of organs that constantly communicate with one another. And some of the messages the kidneys transmit help control blood pressure and maintain the body's supply of oxygen. They have a significant influence on human health. We use cutting-edge imaging technology to explore the power of the kidneys to determine how well – and how long – we live.
In this episode of "THE BODY," we look at fat and muscle, organs whose importance is often misunderstood. Many people believe that fat simply stores energy and muscles just move the body. However, recent research has revealed that both organs have an unimaginable variety of functions. They discharge special substances that transmit vital messages throughout the body, manipulating desire, affecting immune function, enhancing memory and even fighting cancer. Using the latest research, we'll explore how their surprising power can protect us from deadly disease.
In this episode of "THE BODY," we turn our attention to the bones. You might think of them simply as part of our basic architecture. However, recent research has revealed that our bones serve another, equally important, function. The cells they contain issue health-enhancing messages that flow throughout our body like a virtual fountain of youth and power. And if those messages are silenced, the aging process may accelerate. The cells inside our bones keep our bodies young. Let's explore the amazing role they play.
In this episode of "THE BODY," we take a look at our longest organ – the gut. It does a lot more than process waste. Our gut brings together bacteria and immune cells to keep our immune system healthy and strong often in surprising ways. And it keeps our immune system from spinning out of control and causing chaos throughout our body. Learn how our amazing gut helps defend us against a whole host of life-threatening diseases through its hidden functions.
In this episode of "THE BODY," we delve deep inside the brain. Dreaming up new ideas, speaking and writing, creating art, and developing advanced technologies – these and other uniquely human activities originate in the brain. Inside this complex organ is a vast communications network made up of some 100 billion neurons. Come as we explore the brain's intricate circuitry, and discover the mechanisms behind inspiration and memory.
In this episode of "THE BODY," takes us back to the starting point for all human beings - birth. From a fertilized egg, through the division of microscopic cells, the formation of internal organs, to the first cries of a newborn in the delivery room, we trace the complex interactions between mother and baby that transform a tiny fetus into a living, breathing person. The latest imaging technology helps you witness the process from the inside to help you understand the wonders of human development.
In this episode of "THE BODY," we explore one of mankind's oldest desires -- finding the secret to a long, healthy life. Cutting-edge science has revealed new images of the remarkable gigantic network that stretches across the human body. And playing a key role are the "message molecules" released by our organs. Now, the power of these message molecules is about to significantly change the way we treat serious illnesses such as cancer and heart disease and help determine how well -- and how long -- we live.
