[The series gives a brief overview on the discovery of the juxtaglomerular apparatus (JGA), an interesting story, as well as on details of its structure and function down to the molecular level. The discovery of JGA, i.e., a phylogenetically ancient organ, is a fine example of the close morphological and functional correlations characteristic of living organisms. Presented are the JGA related misconcepts and the underlying theoretical and practical difficulties. Utilization of the most modern methods, such as atomic force microscopy, as well as the in vivo multiphoton laser microscopy revealed previously unrecognized phenomen highlighting the ambiguities of textbook information, accepted paradigms. The author is looking for relationship between the new and provocative theoretical research and clinical consequences of pharmacological interventions. He shows that JGA is not only a participant of the salt-water balance and blood pressure regulation, but it can also play a significant role in the pathogenesis of the major public diseases. Finally, he makes an attempt to analyze the current research directions that predict some potential scientific discoveries and describe some general lessons from his own research career.]

[Biological rhythms plays key role in maintaining health and preventing diseases. The changes of rhythms are normally associated to aging. Biological rhythms become more fragile along with the age and therefore they are connected to various age-related health problems. The interest about the strategies aiming to maintain or restore biological rhythms is increasing. There are evidences about the beneficial effect of rhythm restoration therapies in dementia and depression, but future studies are needed to clarify the general health promoting and also geroprotecting effect of these interventions. ]

[Background and purpose - Allergy is an endemic disease and has a considerable impact on the quality of life. This study aimed to measure the effect of active allergic rhinitis on memory functions of physically active and inactive patients with ragweed allergy. Methods - Memory functions were assessed before and after allergen exposure. Participants in both groups were provoked nasally with 30 IR/mL ragweed allergen in each nostril. Explicit memory was measured with story-recalling and implicit memory was investigated with reaction time task. Results - In neuropsychological assessments athletes performed significantly better, compared with the control group after allergen provocation in short-term and long-term memory functions. There was no difference between the groups in the implicit tasks. Athletes have achieved better results after provocation, comparing to the baseline test and the tests that measured short-term and long-term memory functions. Conclusion - Short-term disturbing factors, e.g. swollen nasal mucosa, sneezing, and watery eyes after provocation did have not caused deterioration in cognitive functions. A single-shot allergen in high doses have caused an increase of mental concentration, which was more pronounced in athletes.]