Homeostatic Mechanisms and Monitoring

Homeostasis

• Definition: Maintenance of constant internal conditions despite external changes.

• Key factors regulated by homeostasis: body temperature, blood glucose levels, blood pH, water and ion content.

Components of Homeostatic Mechanisms

• Stimulus: Change in the regulated factor.

• Receptors: Sensors that detect changes; can be located in the brain or throughout the body.

• Control Centre: Usually the brain; processes information from receptors and determines response.

• Effector: Mechanism that enacts correction to return the factor to normal levels.

• Response: Adjustments made by effectors to restore balance.

Homeostatic Mechanism Process Flow

1. Change detected (stimulus) by receptors.

2. Control system processes information and activates effectors.

3. Effectors implement corrective measures.

4. Negative feedback: Once the factor reaches normal level (set point), corrective action is ceased to prevent over-correction.