Sang Kyu Park & Dongsun Shin

This study presents an innovative and cost-effective approach to kidney anatomy education by using tomatoes as a model to replicate the complex structures of the kidney. Traditional kidney models, while accurate, are often expensive and inaccessible for many educational settings. To address this, we propose using tomatoes, whose natural shape and internal texture closely resemble various anatomical features of the kidney. The methodology involves slicing tomatoes in specific ways to visualize kidney structures such as the renal cortex, medulla, pyramids, and vascular system. The results show that tomato-based models provide a highly accessible and tactile learning tool that enhances students' understanding of kidney anatomy. These models are easy to create, require no specialized tools, and allow for hands-on learning that improves retention and engagement. Moreover, the embryological similarities between the tomato's internal structure and the kidney's anatomy provide an intuitive way to explain developmental processes and blood flow. This study underscores the potential of low-cost, high-efficiency educational tools in medical training and suggests expanding the use of such models to other organs and scientific disciplines. By integrating simple, practical methods like these, anatomy education can become more inclusive and effective.

KEY WORDS: Kidney model; Anatomy education; Cost-effective models; Medical training; Innovative teaching tools.

PARK, S. K. & SHIN, D. Development of a low-cost kidney model using tomatoes and its applicability in anatomy education. Int. J. Morphol., 43(1):1-4, 2025.