Homeostasis and Regulation of Systems

These flashcards cover key concepts of homeostasis, feedback mechanisms, and related physiological processes.

What is homeostasis?

Homeostasis is the maintenance of a constant internal environment despite changes in the external environment.

What are the two types of feedback loops?

Negative feedback loops and positive feedback loops.

What is a negative feedback loop?

A process that regulates a variable within an organism, whereby the last step in the process reduces the initial stimulus, making it self-limiting.

What is a positive feedback loop?

A process that controls a variable within an organism, whereby the last step in the process causes the action to be repeated to enhance the stimulus.

What is the primary function of insulin?

Insulin lowers blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake by cells.

What triggers the release of glucagon?

Low blood glucose levels trigger the release of glucagon, which raises blood glucose levels.

What is hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia is a condition where blood glucose levels drop below the normal range.

What are osmoreceptors?

Sensors located in the hypothalamus that detect changes in water balance.

How does the body respond to an increase in body temperature?

The body responds by dilating blood vessels and promoting sweating.

What structure in the brain acts as the body's thermostat?

The hypothalamus.

What condition is characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing cells?

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas.

What is the primary role of the thyroid gland?

The thyroid gland regulates metabolism by producing thyroid hormones such as thyroxine.

What occurs during hyperthyroidism?

In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces excess hormones, leading to an accelerated metabolism.

What are the five stages of a stimulus-response model?

1. Stimulus 2. Receptor 3. Control Centre 4. Effector 5. Response.