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Electrophysiology Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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electrophysiology

[ɪˌlɛk.trəʊˌfɪz.iˈɒl.ə.dʒi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

science field

Electrophysiology is the branch of physiology that studies the electrical properties of biological cells and tissues. It encompasses the examination of the electrical activities within cells and the effects of different stimuli on these activities. This field is essential for understanding various bodily functions, particularly in the heart and nervous system.

Synonyms

bioelectrophysiology, cardiac electrophysiology.

Examples of usage

  • Electrophysiology provides insights into heart rhythm disorders.
  • Researchers in electrophysiology investigate nerve signal transmission.
  • Electrophysiology is crucial for developing cardiac treatments.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Applications

  • This field is crucial for understanding arrhythmias, where the heart beats irregularly, often requiring treatments like pacemakers.
  • Electrophysiology studies help in developing therapies for conditions such as epilepsy by analyzing electrical signals in the brain.
  • The information from these studies can lead to minimally invasive procedures, making surgeries safer for patients.

Historical Significance

  • Key discoveries in this field were made in the 19th century, particularly by scientists like Luigi Galvani, who studied animal electricity.
  • In 1958, the first successful cardiac pacemaker was implanted, revolutionizing treatments for heart conditions based on electrophysiological insights.

Technology

  • Recent advancements like 3D mapping and computer simulations have dramatically improved diagnostic capabilities in this field.
  • Wearable technology now allows for continuous monitoring of heart rhythms, greatly assisting in early detection of problems.

Research Developments

  • Studies in electrophysiology play a vital role in drug development, especially in understanding how new medications can affect heart rhythms.
  • Researchers are exploring the role of electrical signals in regenerative medicine, possibly leading to breakthroughs in healing damaged tissues.

Origin of 'electrophysiology'

Main points about word origin

  • The term is a combination of 'electro,' referring to electricity, and 'physiology,' which is the study of how living organisms function.
  • The word became common in the mid-20th century as technology advanced, allowing for better study of heart and brain functions.

The term 'electrophysiology' is derived from three Greek words: 'electro,' meaning 'electric' (from 'ēlektron,' meaning amber, which is known for static electricity), 'physio,' which pertains to nature or physiology, and 'logy,' meaning 'the study of.' This term began to be used in the early 20th century as medical and biological sciences started to recognize the significance of electrical activity in cells. The combination of these concepts highlights how electrical phenomena are fundamental to physiological processes. As technology advanced, particularly in the fields of cardiology and neuroscience, electrophysiology blossomed into a specialized field, integrating medical research with engineering principles to explore and manipulate the electrical functions of cells.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,552 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.