Newswise — Scottsdale, Ariz. (September 11, 2019)—Studying microcirculation with a microscope is similar to studying astronomy through a telescope, explained keynote speaker Fitz-Roy Curry, PhD, professor emeritus at the University of California, Davis. Curry, a preeminent researcher in the area of vascular permeability, will deliver the keynote speech today at the American Physiological Society (APS) Interface of Mathematical Models and Experimental Biology: Role of the Microvasculature Conference in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Mathematical modeling has played an important role in the interpretation of images in both microcirculation and astronomy. Using the essential tools of their respective trades, “both areas have progressed by the cycle of observation, theory and modeling, followed by new observations,” Curry said. Refinement of image interpretation, with the help of computational models, helps researchers gain new insights on how blood flows through the body’s smallest vessels, the ways in which oxygen is delivered to nearby tissues and the exchange of water and other substances across the walls of these microvessels.

In his keynote presentation, Curry will outline problems that are of particular importance in the microcirculation, including moment-by-moment variation and the regulation of blood flow, blood volume and fluid management. These issues—which can affect human health—are among the topics that will be covered over the course of the meeting.

Curry will discuss limitations that have slowed progress in the study of both astronomy and microcirculation, such as poorly imaged structures and the lack of accurate instrument calibration and reliable standards. He will also draw on his more than 40 years of experience to explain how his lab designs experiments and interprets data using both experimental approaches and mathematical models.

Fitz-Roy Curry, PhD, professor emeritus at the University of California, Davis, will present the keynote address “Using mathematical models to understand what we observe: From the microscope to the telescope” on Wednesday, September 11, at the Scottsdale Plaza Resort.

NOTE TO JOURNALISTS: The APS Interface of Mathematical Models and Experimental Biology: Role of the Microvasculature Conference will be held September 11–14 in Scottsdale, Ariz. To schedule an interview with the conference organizers or presenters, contact the APS Communications Office or 301.634.7314. Find more research highlights in the APS News Room.

Physiology is the study of how molecules, cells, tissues and organs function in health and disease. Established in 1887, the American Physiological Society (APS) was the first U.S. society in the biomedical sciences field. The Society represents more than 10,000 members and publishes 15 peer-reviewed journals with a worldwide readership.

 

 

Meeting Link: Interface of Mathematical Models and Experimental Biology: Role of the Microvasculature Conference