ParasitoPhysioArt: exploring the intersection of art, physiology, and parasitology on students’ perception and motivation

This study explores the impact of integrating art into the teaching of physiology and parasitology to enhance student engagement, motivation, and perception. Thirty-seven biotechnology students from the Federal University of Paraíba in Brazil enrolled in human physiology and parasitology courses and participated in the innovative ParasitoPhysioArt Project. The students were tasked with recreating artworks illustrating key parasitology concepts and their physiological effects on the human body. For instance, one group reinterpreted Wassily Kandinsky's <i>Several Circles</i> to represent the lifecycle of <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> and its effect on the eyes, highlighting how the parasite, transmitted through contaminated soil or food, can invade various organs, including the retina and choroid, potentially leading to blindness. Another group reimagined Clóvis Júnior's <i>Nossa Senhora Aparecida</i>, replacing the original branches with drawings of <i>Ascaris lumbricoides</i>, a parasite transmitted through contaminated fruits or vegetables. The artwork emphasized the parasite's impact on the lungs, which can cause symptoms such as cough, dyspnea, and hemoptysis. A voluntary survey answered after the project revealed that 62% of students (<i>n</i> = 39) considered physiology challenging. However, ∼86% reported that the multidisciplinary approach of combining art with scientific concepts motivated them to study and helped them better understand the disciplines. Results suggest that the artistic reinterpretations vividly illustrated the intersection of parasitology and physiology, highlighting this interdisciplinary approach's educational and creative potential.<b>NEW & NOTEWORTHY</b> This study explores how integrating art into teaching physiology and parasitology enhances student engagement and understanding. Thirty-seven biotechnology students recreated artworks, such as reimagining Wassily Kandinsky's <i>Several Circles</i> to depict <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> affecting eye retina cell function. A survey revealed that although 62% found physiology challenging, 86% reported that the art-science approach improved motivation and comprehension. The project highlighted the educational potential of this interdisciplinary approach.