Explain the term Homeostasis.
The term homeostasis is derived from two Greek words; homios meaning ‘the same’ and stasis meaning ‘steady’. It refers to the processes by which the body and internal cells seek to constantly maintain an internal state of balance and equilibrium even when faced with external environmental changes. This is achieved through either positive or negative feedback loop controls associated mainly with the endocrine and nervous systems. Principal homeostatic processes include regulation of blood pH, glucose, osmoregulation, and also temperature. Although some homeostatic mechanisms such as temperature control are unique to mammals and birds, all living organisms depend on effective internal regulation to some extent for survival.
Word Count- 106
TAQ 2
Part 1 – How is body temperature maintained including why this is necessary for the organism. (300 words)
In humans, maintenance of strict internal temperature homeostasis is crucial in providing the optimal temperature for which the bodies enzymes are able to act as catalysts for vital biochemical reactions within the cells. Even a few degrees fluctuation in core body temperature (outside of approximately …show more content…
(400 words)
Blood glucose levels are regulated within a narrow range (typically 70mg/dl-110mg/dl) via the endocrine system. Whilst tight regulation is achieved mainly by insulin and glucagon hormones secreted by the pancreas, other hormones including somatostatin, epinephrine, cortisol, adrenocorticotrophic hormone and also T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) hormones from the thyroid gland also play a role.
Regular uncontrolled fluctation in blood glucose levels can have severe detrimental health effects, the most serious of which is the development of diabetes mellitus, which if left untreated can be