Human Body Systems

What is the biological mandate of the body?

The relentless pursuit of a stable internal environment amidst external chaos, known as homeostasis.

What are the seven major organ systems?

Nervous, Endocrine, Digestive, Urinary, Circulatory, Respiratory, Musculoskeletal.

What is homeostasis derived from?

The Greek words homeo (same) and stasis (stable).

What is the primary function of the nervous system?

Command and control of body functions, processing information and coordinating responses.

What is the transmission speed of the nervous system?

268 mph.

What percentage of daily energy intake does the brain consume?

20% of daily intake despite being only 2% of body mass.

What is the role of the pituitary gland in the endocrine system?

It controls growth and orchestrates the functions of other glands.

What do the thyroid and adrenal glands regulate?

Thyroid regulates metabolism, and adrenal glands regulate stress response and cortisol levels.

What is the primary function of the circulatory system?

To transport blood, nutrients, and waste products throughout the body.

How long is the circulatory system's network?

60,000 miles.

What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

Gas exchange, processing approximately 12,000 liters of air daily.

What is the role of the digestive system?

To process food and absorb nutrients, producing bile for fat breakdown.

What is the enteric nervous system (ENS)?

A part of the nervous system located in the gut that controls digestion independently.

What is the primary function of the musculoskeletal system?

Support and movement, consisting of 206 bones that act as levers.

What is hematopoiesis?

The production of red and white blood cells in the bone marrow.

What is the function of the urinary system?

To filter waste from the blood, regulate blood pressure, and stimulate red blood cell production.

What is the risk of dehydration on kidney health?

Dehydration can concentrate urine, leading to the crystallization of minerals into kidney stones.

What happens during a stress response scenario, like a near-miss car accident?

The nervous system detects the threat, the endocrine system releases cortisol and adrenaline, and heart rate spikes.

What physiological changes occur during exercise, such as a 30-minute jog?

Increased demand for ATP and oxygen, increased respiratory rate, and thermoregulation through sweating.

What is the significance of cadaveric insights in anatomy?

They reveal the unique branching patterns and variations of real bodies, which differ from textbook representations.

How do the systems of the body interact?

Health is the collaboration of the seven systems; a symptom in one area often involves multiple systems.

What is the primary role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system?

To act as a bridge, translating neural signals into hormonal release.

What is the anatomical reality of gray and white matter in the brain?

Gray matter is pinkish-gray and processes information, while white matter consists of fatty myelin insulation for transmission.