6.6 Homeostasis and Hormones

Front

What is homeostasis?

Back

Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms regulate their internal environment to maintain stable, constant conditions despite external changes.

Front

What role do hormones play in homeostasis?

Back

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands that regulate various physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and mood, helping to maintain homeostasis.

Front

What is leptin and its function?

Back

Leptin is a hormone secreted by fat cells that helps to regulate energy balance by inhibiting hunger, which in turn can increase metabolism.

Front

What is thyroxine and its role in metabolism?

Back

Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolic rates, influencing how quickly the body uses energy.

Front

What is the function of insulin?

Back

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps to lower blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells.

Front

What is glucagon and its role in blood sugar regulation?

Back

Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by promoting the conversion of stored glycogen into glucose.

Front

What is a negative feedback loop?

Back

A negative feedback loop is a control mechanism that counteracts a change in a physiological variable, helping to maintain homeostasis.

Front

What is a positive feedback loop?

Back

A positive feedback loop is a process that amplifies a change or deviation from a set point, often leading to a greater response.

Front

What are the main glands involved in the regulation of blood glucose levels?

Back

The main glands involved are the pancreas (producing insulin and glucagon) and the adrenal glands (producing adrenaline).

Front

What is the definition of a hormone?

Back

A hormone is a chemical substance produced by a gland and carried by the blood to target organs to regulate physiological functions.