Michael Mosley looks at the cutting-edge science that reveals the vital functions of blood in our bodies.
Each of us carries within us eight pints of an extraordinary liquid – blood. It makes up 10 percent of our bodyweight and is vital to our survival. But how much do we really know about this sticky, red substance and its mysterious, life-giving force?
This fascinating film sees Michael Mosley put himself through some extreme challenges to discover how our blood protects us from infection, heals us when we’re wounded, and powers our lives.
He undergoes experiments including entering a low-oxygen environment to supercharge his blood and boost his physical fitness; poisoning his blood with a vial of viper venom in order to see it clot; doing a state-of-the-art body scan to chart every artery and vein in his body; and going white-water rafting to discover how his blood’s defenses combat stress.
The program explores the dark mythology around blood, and meets the scientists on the cusp of discovering whether there’s any truth in the ‘Dracula myth’ – that young blood can reverse the aging process.
Packed with absorbing stories about the science of blood—from the grisly history of transfusion to pioneering medical engineering—"The Wonderful World Of Blood" is a comprehensive take on a subject that’s central to our survival. Always engaging and inquisitive, Michael animates each story in his uniquely accessible style.
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Credits:
A BBC production. Presenter is Michael Mosley (TRUST ME, I’M A DOCTOR, THE STORY OF SCIENCE). Producer is Nathan Budd. Executive Producer is Jacqueline Smith ("The Magic of Mushrooms").
