Surgical Illustration

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting — Sequential Grafting Technique

The purpose of this illustration was to create a visually interesting and dynamic 3D scene that conveys an interesting scientific discovery to the public. Scientists recently identified a population of inflammatory microglia, whose increased expression was correlated with advanced age and APOE4 protein expression -- risk factors attributed to Alzheimer's disease (AD). These microglia showed reduced cellular function, including the ability to clear amyloid-β plaques which often build up during the onset of AD.

In the journal cover, I used the metaphor of exhausted office workers to communicate this scientific finding. The scene highlights 4 tired looking figures – microglia working in the memory department of the brain. The pixel hearts above their head indicate their low energy levels, and thus inability to perform their intended tasks. As a result, their work environment becomes cluttered with the accumulation of debris and memory function is impaired.