Of all the ewww-inspiring wonders of the human body, belches, snot and certain functions of the nether regions are among the most fascinating to many kids.

What better way to interest them in science and human biology? That's the premise behind 'Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body,' a traveling exhibit that invites kids to climb into an oversized nose, slide through the digestive tract, create a giant belch and more.

Y U Stink matches body odors with the area of the body they come from: armpits, lower intestines, mouth and feet.

'Grossology' is coming to Iowa thanks to a first-of-its-kind partnership between the University of Iowa Children's Hospital and the Science Center of Iowa (SCI) in Des Moines. The exhibit will run from Sept. 29, 2007-Jan. 6, 2008, at the Science Center.

'Grossology' uses animatronics, giant models and games to draw kids' interest, exposing them to fun, fascinating and reliable information about the human body. The learning is active for kids as they tour a much-larger-than-life nose to find out the difference between allergies and a cold or climb a wall of 'skin' complete with pimples and moles.

Nigel Nose-It-All explains how the nose functions including allergies, sinuses, snot trivia and runny noses. The more than nine-foot-tall animatronic figure moves its head, arms, eyelids and handle, and features a special snot ball that drops out of the faucet nose.

In addition to the exhibit, the UI Carver College of Medicine will sponsor the film 'The Human Body,' at the SCI Blank IMAX Dome Theater. The large-format film combines stunning photography and innovative computer graphics to depict biological processes.

'We are thrilled to be partnering with SCI to sponsor this exhibit and to offer companion special programs that will provide unique opportunities for adults and kids to learn about Iowa's academic medical center, children's health initiatives and the science of saving lives,' said Chad Ruback, executive director of alumni and collegiate relations for the UI Carver College of Medicine.

The partnership with SCI opens a new chapter in the UI's efforts to promote science and medical discovery among Iowans of all ages.

'Working with The University of Iowa will allow SCI to explore new ways to engage and inspire all of our participants,' said SCI President and CEO Mary Sellers. 'We are thrilled to be able to leverage the knowledge and expertise of The University of Iowa team to add new dimensions and broader reach to the hands-on learning and exploration that SCI is known for in the state.'

For more information about 'Grossology,' 'The Human Body,' or University of Iowa-supported events at the Science Center, please visit the SCI Web site at or call (515) 274-6868.