Homeostasis: A Framework for Human Physiology

A series of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to human physiology and homeostasis.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment in an organism.

Physiology

The study of how living organisms function.

Cell Differentiation

The process of transforming an unspecialized cell into a specialized, functional cell.

Tissues

Groups of similar cells that work together to perform a specific function.

Muscle Tissue

A type of tissue comprised of cells specialized for contraction and generation of force.

Neuron

A specialized cell of the nervous system that initiates, integrates, and conducts electrical signals.

Epithelial Cells

Cells specialized for selective secretion, absorption, and protection.

Connective Tissue

Tissue that connects, anchors, and supports other tissues and organs.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A mixture of proteins and polysaccharides that supports cells and transmits signals.

Negative Feedback

A mechanism that reverses a change in a physiological variable to maintain homeostasis.

Positive Feedback

A process that accelerates a change or moves a variable in the same direction of its original change.

Set Point

The ideal value or range of a physiological variable that the body attempts to maintain.

Feedforward Regulation

A regulatory mechanism anticipating a change and responding to it before it occurs.

Circadian Rhythm

Biological rhythms that cycle approximately every 24 hours.

Reflex Arc

The neural pathway mediating a reflex action, which includes stimulus, receptor, integrating center, efferent pathway, and effector.

Chemical Messengers

Substances that facilitate communication between cells, including hormones and neurotransmitters.

Acclimatization

The improved functioning of an existing homeostatic system following prolonged exposure to an environmental change.

Adaptation

A characteristic that enhances survival in specific environmental conditions.