B3

Homeostasis

Maintaining a stable internal environment despite changes outside the body.

Blood glucose level

Normal blood glucose level is approximately 4–6 mmol/L.

Negative Feedback Control

The process by which the body responds to changes in blood glucose levels to maintain homeostasis.

Insulin

A hormone released by beta cells that lowers blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake in cells and converting glucose to glycogen.

Glucagon

A hormone released by alpha cells that raises blood glucose levels by converting glycogen to glucose.

Type 1 Diabetes

A condition caused by the immune system destroying beta cells, leading to no insulin production.

Type 2 Diabetes

A condition characterized by insulin resistance, often linked to obesity.

Kidney Functions

Removing urea, maintaining water balance, and controlling ion levels.

Nephron Structure

Parts of the nephron include glomerulus, Bowman’s capsule, proximal tubule, Loop of Henle, distal tubule, and collecting duct.

Ultrafiltration

The first step of urine formation, where high pressure forces out water, urea, glucose, and ions.

Selective Reabsorption

The second step of urine formation, where all glucose, most water, and needed ions are reabsorbed.

ADH

Antidiuretic hormone that controls water reabsorption in the kidneys.

Vasodilation

A process that occurs when the body is too hot, increasing blood flow to the skin.

Vasoconstriction

A process that occurs when the body is too cold, reducing blood flow to the skin.

Glycogenolysis

The conversion of glycogen back to glucose.

Active transport

The process of moving substances against a concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Ultrafiltration, Selective Reabsorption, Osmoregulation

The three main steps of kidney function in urine formation.