Structure and Function in Animals with Emphasis on Vertebrates

Animal body systems

groups of organs working together

Digestive system

breaks down food and absorbs nutrients

Respiratory system

exchanges oxygen and carbon dioxide

Circulatory system

transports blood nutrients and hormones

Musculoskeletal system

provides support and movement

Nervous system

transmits signals throughout the body

Excretory system

removes wastes from the body

Immune system

defends body against pathogens

Homeostasis

maintenance of stable internal conditions

Set point

target value for a body condition

Stimulus

change in internal condition

Sensor

detects changes in the body

Control center

processes information and sends response

Negative feedback

process that reduces a stimulus

Thermoregulation

control of body temperature

Endothermy

internal heat production for temperature control

Ectothermy

body temperature depends on environment

Sweating

lowers body temperature through evaporation

Endocrine system

system of hormone producing glands

Hormone

chemical signal carried in blood

Endocrine gland

ductless gland that secretes hormones

Hormone function

regulates growth metabolism and reproduction

Insulin

hormone that lowers blood glucose

Glucose regulation

controlled by insulin and pancreas

Receptor proteins

bind hormones and trigger response

Cell signaling

hormones sending messages between cells

Metabolism

hormone regulated energy processes

Reproduction

hormones control sexual development and cycles

Gonads

organs that produce sperm and eggs

Lactation

hormone controlled milk production