Homeostasis
we are learning how the cells and systems work together to survive. One process in which these systems work together is called homeostasis. The body is responding to a stimulus and acting to keep the body working properly. These responses may be external or internal. The mechanism involves a stimuli, hormone response and a self-adjusting mechanism or feedback regulation. We will test our own body’s homeostasis looking at heart rate.
Materials:
• Timer/Stopwatch - you can use a cell phone
• Calculator
Part. I.
The goal of this assignment is to demonstrate what you learned about explaining the concept of homeostasis, explaining a specific feedback mechanism and summarizing the process of homeostasis.
For this assignment, you need to write a short explanation explaining the provided flow chart for homeostasis feedback and include all of the following:
• your own definition of homeostasis,
• use a flowchart to create a specific feedback loop in the maintenance of homeostasis,
• and a detailed explanation of one example of a negative feedback loop in the body (you may not use thermoregulation).
• Cite all references.
Homeostasis: Maintaining the Body's Balance
Homeostasis refers to the ability of the body to maintain a relatively constant internal environment despite external or internal changes. This delicate balance is crucial for optimal cell function and overall health. Our bodies rely on a complex system of feedback loops to achieve homeostasis.
Understanding Feedback Loops with a Flowchart
Here's a simple flowchart illustrating a general feedback loop in maintaining homeostasis:
+-----------------+ Stimulus (change in internal environment)
| v
| Sensor detects |
| the change v
+-----------------+
|
v
+-----------------+ Control Center (processes information)
| v
| Determines |
| appropriate v
| response v
+-----------------+
|
v
+-----------------+ Effector (produces a response)
| v
| Counteracts |
| the initial v
| change v
+-----------------+
|
v
+-----------------+ (New internal environment closer to set point)
| Set Point |
+-----------------+
Example of a Negative Feedback Loop: Blood Sugar Regulation
Let's explore a specific example of a negative feedback loop in the human body, focusing on blood sugar regulation (glycemic control).
- Stimulus: Imagine you consume a sugary drink, causing your blood sugar levels (glucose) to rise above the normal range (set point).
- Sensor Detects the Change: The pancreas, a gland behind your stomach, contains specialized cells called beta cells that act as sensors for blood sugar levels.
- Control Center and Response: When beta cells detect high blood sugar, they send a signal to release insulin, a hormone, into the bloodstream. This acts as the control center's response.
- Effector and Counteracting the Change: Insulin acts as the effector in this loop. It unlocks cells throughout the body, allowing them to absorb glucose from the bloodstream, effectively lowering blood sugar levels.
- Returning to Set Point: As insulin does its job, blood sugar levels gradually decrease, returning closer to the normal range (set point). Once the set point is reached, insulin production slows down or stops.