Learning Center
The discovery of HeLa cells is a story that is as fascinating as it is controversial. In 1951, a young Black woman named Henrietta Lacks was diagnosed with cervical cancer. Unbeknownst to her, her cancer cells would go on to become one of the most important tools in modern medical research. HeLa cells, as they … Read more
What is Alzheimer’s Disease? Alzheimer’s disease is a complex neurological condition that causes cognitive decline, memory loss, and behavioral changes. It is the most common cause of dementia, a progressive loss of intellectual functioning, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. This progressive brain disorder impacts thinking, memory, and daily functioning, ultimately affecting a person’s quality of … Read more
We’re fast approaching the 2023 flu season. No one likes being laid-up and feeling the discomfort the flu brings, not to mention missing out on celebrating Thanksgiving and other seasonal events at the end of the year because you are contagious and too sick to travel. We recently sat down with Brandon J. Essink, MD, … Read more
Influenza, or the flu, remains a persistent concern as we approach the 2023-2024 flu season. Let’s refresh our knowledge on this viral illness and understand how it might impact us this year. Understanding Influenza (Flu) Influenza is caused by influenza viruses, with subtypes A, B, C, and D under its umbrella. In humans, Influenza A … Read more
What are MASH and Steatotic Liver Disease? Steatotic liver disease (formerly known as fatty liver disease) is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver. It can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption (MetALD) or by factors unrelated to alcohol (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease or MASLD). MASLD (formerly called nonalcoholic fatty … Read more
Clinical research offers a dynamic and fulfilling career path for individuals passionate about advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. As the demand for groundbreaking treatments and therapies continues to grow, so does the need for skilled professionals in this field. In this article, we will delve into the various roles within clinical research, shed … Read more
Lyme Disease: What You Need to Know About Transmission, Long-Term Effects, and Lyme Disease Vaccines
You may have heard of Lyme disease through headlines about celebrities like Shania Twain, Justin Bieber, and Avril Lavigne, who announced their diagnosis publicly. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can cause severe symptoms if left untreated. The disease is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, and it’s prevalent in many parts of … Read more
You may have seen the term “Long COVID” in headlines over the past year or two. While lingering or delayed effects from a viral infection may seem like a new discovery, evidence suggests that some viruses can lay dormant in a body for years before triggering other symptoms later. What is Viral Latency? When the … Read more
What is Influenza (Flu)? Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, is caused by influenza viruses. “The flu” and “influenza” are generally used as umbrella terms for four subtypes of the influenza virus: A, B, C, and D. Influenza A and B are the most common in humans, with Influenza A generally being the most … Read more
Featuring Commentary by Brandon Essink, MD, CPI, Chief Physician Officer at Velocity Monkeypox has made headlines lately as a new outbreak is steadily growing in the United States. In this article we’ll answer common questions about the virus and the vaccine intended to prevent infection with the help of Brandon Essink, MD, CPI, Velocity’s Physician … Read more