Homeostasis

The biological definition of homeostasis is the tendency of an organism or cell to regulate its
internal environment and maintain equilibrium, usually by a system of feedback controls, so as to
stabilize health and functioning. Generally, the body is in homeostasis when its needs are met
and its functioning properly.

Every organ in the body contributes to homeostasis. A complex set of chemical, thermal, and
neural factors interact in complex ways, both helping and hindering the body while it works to
maintain homeostasis.

Homeostatic control
To maintain homeostasis, communication within the body is essential. The image below is an
example of how a homeostatic control system works. Here is a brief explanation:

1. Stimulus produces a change to a variable (the factor being regulated).

2. Receptor detects the change. The receptor monitors the environment and responds to
change (stimuli).
3. Input information travels along the (afferent) pathway to the control center. The control
center determines the appropriate response and course of action.
4. Output information sent from the control center travels down the (efferent) pathway to
the effector.
5. Response a response from the effector balances out the original stimulus to maintain
homeostasis.

Interactions among the elements of a homeostatic control system maintain stable internal
conditions by using positive and negative feedback mechanisms.

Think of it as an extremely complex balancing act. Heres a few more definitions you may want
to know.
Afferent pathways carry nerve impulses into the central nervous system. For instance, if you
felt scorching heat on your hand, the message would travel through afferent pathways to your
central nervous system.

Efferent pathways carry nerve impulses away from the central nervous system to effectors
(muscles, glands).

The feeling of heat would travel through an afferent pathway to the central nervous system. It
would then interact with the effector and travel down the efferent pathway, eventually making
the person remove their hand from the scorching heat.

Negative feedback mechanisms

Almost all homeostatic control mechanisms are negative feedback mechanisms. These
mechanisms change the variable back to its original state or ideal value.

A good example of a negative feedback mechanism is a home thermostat (heating system). The
thermostat contains the receptor (thermometer) and control center. If the heating system is set at
70 degrees Fahrenheit, the heat (effector) is turned on if the temperature drops below 70 degrees
Fahrenheit. After the heater heats the house to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, it shuts off effectively
maintaining the ideal temperature.

The control of blood sugar (glucose) by insulin is another good example of a negative feedback
mechanism. When blood sugar rises, receptors in the body sense a change . In turn, the control
center (pancreas) secretes insulin into the blood effectively lowering blood sugar levels. Once
blood sugar levels reach homeostasis, the pancreas stops releasing insulin.

These are just two examples of negative feedback mechanisms within our body, there are 100s,
can you think of a few more?

Positive feedback mechanisms

A positive feedback mechanism is the exact opposite of a negative feedback mechanism. With
negative feedback, the output reduces the original effect of the stimulus. In a positive feedback
system, the output enhances the original stimulus. A good example of a positive feedback system
is child birth. During labor, a hormone called oxytocin is released that intensifies and speeds up
contractions. The increase in contractions causes more oxytocin to be released and the cycle goes
on until the baby is born. The birth ends the release of oxytocin and ends the positive feedback
mechanism.

Another good example of a positive feedback mechanism is blood clotting. Once a vessel is
damaged, platelets start to cling to the injured site and release chemicals that attract more
platelets. The platelets continue to pile up and release chemicals until a clot is formed.

Just remember that positive feedback mechanisms enhance the original stimulus and negative
feedback mechanisms inhibit it.
Author information

NOTE: If youre a Registered Nurse or current/future nursing student, thernnurse.com is a great

resource. The site discusses A&P within nursing and highlights its importance. Its a great
supplement to use in conjunction with this website.