Metabolic and Nutritional Diseases 2024

Unveiling the Diabetic Dilemma: Exploration of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus - From Causes to Treatments - Team 5

Media Type: Interactive

Summary

team_05_image.jpgFor our PULSE assignment, we created an interactive, module-based presentation about Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). We chose this topic because of its global prevalence, and this format due to its user-friendly nature, which allows people to explore the material at their own pace. This presentation covers what T1DM is, including its complications and treatments, at a level that is informative yet accessible, requiring thoughtful engagement without overwhelming technical detail.

In our assignment, we clarified the majority of concepts, terms, and ideas related to the T1DM. In some instances, we dived deeper into certain areas to enhance understanding. For instance, we explore the role of pancreatic beta cells, which are pivotal in insulin production, and essential for blood sugar regulation. We also discuss T-cells, or T-lymphocytes, which are vital components of the immune system. These are divided into two types: CD4+, which assists in and induces immune responses and CD8+ which suppresses or destroys infected cells. These T-cells interact with antigens presented by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) equipped with a crucial structure known as the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule. We describe the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II molecules as the human-specific form of MHC molecules. Additionally, we cover type I interferons (IFNs), which are critical proteins produced by immune cells in response to infections.

Overall, our presentation aims to deliver essential insights about T1DM, educating our audience on the disease's risks, warning signs, and characteristics, as well as its onset. By doing so, we hope to provide individuals with the knowledge needed to recognize T1DM early, and ultimately provide a greater understanding and awareness of the
disease which could potentially save lives.

Keywords: Diabetes, Hyperglycemia, Glucose, Beta-Cells, Autoimmune, Insulin

Nutrient Necessities; Exploring Vitamin Micronutrient Diseases - Team 27

Media Type: Flyer/Info

Summary

team_27_image.jpgFor this assignment, we explored vitamin-related micronutrient diseases through an infographic. The topic was chosen due to difficulty found in remembering all vitamins and the diseases that result from their excess or deficiencies; combining it into a single resource provides this information in a comprehensive, easy-to-understand format. The reason we chose an infographic format was to provide individuals with a visual component to aid in their understanding of the content and to display the information in a visually-appealing way. The scope of our project included both water (Vitamins A/D) and fat-soluble vitamins (Vitamins B/C), and explored the diseases that occur in their excess and deficiency.

Vitamins A, D, B, and C are essential for good health. Too much vitamin A can harm the liver and lead to nausea, while too little can cause vision problems. Excess vitamin D may result in kidney issues, while a deficiency can weaken bones. Deficiencies in B vitamins can lead to health problems like anemia and neurological issues. Excessive vitamin C can upset digestion, while a shortage can cause scurvy and fatigue. It's crucial to maintain a balanced intake of these vitamins to stay healthy. This infographic is designed to emphasize the importance of vitamins A, D, B, and C for overall well-being. By highlighting the impacts of both excess and deficiency, the infographic educates readers about the potential health risks associated with imbalances in vitamin intake. Clear and concise information is presented, detailing the symptoms and health consequences of having too much or too little of each vitamin. Through colorful visuals, easy-to-understand language, and helpful memorization tips, this infographic aims to educate individuals on micronutrient diseases and their role in optimizing health. This infographic serves as a valuable resource for individuals of all ages seeking to learn more about micronutrient diseases.

Keywords: Micronutrients, Fat-Soluble Vitamins, Water-Soluble Vitamins, Deficiencies, Excess

The Symphony of Vitamins - Team 29

Media Type: Video

Summary

team_29_image1.jpgThis assignment explores the essential roles and functions of vitamins learned throughout Path 3500, in the format of a song/music video. We chose this topic as it presents valuable and intriguing knowledge in a memorable and engaging method.

We created two songs, one dedicated to fat soluble vitamins and the other concerning water-soluble vitamins. The first song focuses on vitamins A, D, E and K with their roles, food sources along with pathological outcomes. For example, osteomalacia and rickets are both referred to in the verse about Vitamin D. Both pathological outcomes are characterized by a deficiency in Vitamin D causing inadequate bone mineralization. However, rickets predominantly affects children whereas osteomalacia is more common in adults.

team_29_image2.jpg

The second song delves into the functions, food sources, and pathologies of vitamins C, B9 and B12 with terms including megaloblastic anemia, neural tube defects, myelin and pernicious anemia. Megaloblastic anemia can be defined as a deficiency in vitamin B12, leading to enlarged and deficient RBC. Vitamin B12 can be found in myelin, which forms insulated fatty layers around nerve cells. Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disorder disrupting the absorption of vitamin B12. Neural tube defects are caused by insufficient vitamin B9 and lead to insufficient closing of the neural tube throughout development.

Overall, with a lay audience in mind, we attempted to create the songs without the use of complicated terminology. These songs serve as great memory aids in distinguishing the role of each vitamin, understanding their pathologies and food sources and differentiating between water and fat-soluble vitamins. With a visual aid and lyrics provided in the videos, students can associate colours, words and pictures with that vitamin. Our comprehensive goal is to equip students with an alternative, fun source to learn about the vitamins that play a key role in our day-to-day lives.

Keywords: Vitamins, Song, Nutrition, Metabolism, Micronutrients, Deficiencies