Claude
Bernard:
Teachers' Notes
Less famous than Louis Pasteur, Claude Bernard is nevertheless an important figure in the history of medical science. In addition to his discoveries of glycogen and the function of the pancreas and liver, his experimental method modernised medical research. His recognition of what became known as homeostasis helped to change the existing view that the organs of the body carried out their functions independently.
Answers to questions
| 1 | In order to maintain a steady body temperature the vasomotor nerves contract blood vessels close to the skin when it is cold and expand them in hot weather. The lack of blood gives the white appearance while the flush reveals the presence of blood in the surface blood vessels. |
| 2 | Insulin (and glucogen) controls the level of glucose in the blood stream. Lack of insulin is the cause of diabetes. |
| 3 | A source of money in his early life, marital strife throughout it. |
| 4 | Magendie was a huge influence on Bernard introducing him to experimental medicine, teaching him techniques, and bringing him to the notice of influential government sponsors. By being involved in Magendie's own much respected work, Bernard gained approval for his own research. |
| 5 | Pasteur's previously fond memory of Bernard was somewhat soured. |
| 6 | An ethical discussion! It's worth pointing out that BSE is supposed to have been transmitted to cattle because they were fed meat from infected sheep. |