B2 – Upper Intermediate
Scientists have discovered that the human heart has a previously unknown ability to repair itself under certain conditions.
Read the article to know more about how this discovery could pave the way for new therapies for heart diseases, focusing on activating these natural regenerative processes.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/11/241121141348.htm
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “standard-of-care” mean? “Standard-of-care for patients with advanced heart failure is a surgically implanted pump that helps propel blood, a so-called left ventricular assist device (LVAD).” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “radioactivity” mean? “For every following year, there is a little less radioactivity in newly formed cells, which means that they can be ‘dated’.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “date” mean here, “For every following year, there is a little less radioactivity in newly formed cells, which means that they can be ‘dated‘.”? Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- Did you know our hearts might have the ability to repair themselves naturally? How do you think this discovery could change heart disease treatments?
- What do you think triggers the heart to activate its self-repair mechanisms, and can we use that knowledge to help patients?
- How important do you think it is to focus on natural regenerative processes compared to using medical interventions like surgeries?
- If our hearts have hidden repair abilities, could similar discoveries be made about other organs? Which organ would you hope scientists study next?