The Biomedical Sciences Deptartment has engaged, experienced faculty.  “The Faculty Spotlight” highlights those who teach our classes and work with students.

 Name: Tyler Morris, PhD

 Title: Assistant Professor

        1. How did you get started in your career?

        I took the course, Vertebrate Physiology. It just “clicked” and I decided to pursue a graduate degree in this field. This was my starting point.

        2. What is your main research focus?  Or, what’s the main focus of your position at MSU?

My main interest is how an inflammatory response can impact normal, physiological function.   I enjoy exploring this question in a variety of settings such as insulin sensitivity, blood pressure regulation, tissue blood flow, and more recently digestive function, tumor growth.

       3.       What is a “current topic” in your field that you find interesting or innovative?

A recent review in the journal, Physiology, entitled “Exercise is the Real Polypill” (Luces-Fiuza C et al, 2013). The authors debated the use of polypills  vs. regular physical activity.  In comparison to traditional pharmaceuticals, exercise can be prescribed at a lower cost and has very few side effects. The mechanism for improved health due to regular physical activity is explored through our hunter-gatherer ancestors. During the Paleolithic era the human genome adapted over many years to support regular exercise. Thus, physical inactivity is likely a risk factor contributing to the development of modern chronic disease.

4.       What’s your favorite thing about MSU?

 The variety of my job.  Every day I get the opportunity to teach human anatomy, explore new research questions, and interact with a great group of students, faculty and staff.

 5.       Do you have suggestions or advice for future MSU students?

 Life is a journey. Enjoy it!