Feedback Loops

Set Point

Physiological value or range around which a particular variable (e.g., body temperature, blood glucose) is maintained by homeostatic regulatory mechanisms.

Stimulus

A detectable change in the internal or external environment that induces a response in a living organism.

Sensor/Receptor

A sensor (or receptor) is a component of a homeostatic control system that detects changes (stimuli) in the internal or external environment and transmits this information to a control center.

Control Center

The part of a homeostatic control system that receives information from sensors and determines the appropriate response to maintain homeostasis.

Effector

In a homeostatic control system, an effector is an organ, gland, or muscle that carries out the response directed by the control center to restore homeostasis.

Response

The action or physiological adjustment carried out by an effector organ (like a muscle or gland) following commands from the control center