The concept of homeostasis is a fundamental component of biology. It states that
the body can maintain a stable state of equilibrium even though the external environment
changes. Enzymes require optimal functioning conditions within the cellular
environment, necessitating regulating pH, temperature, oxygen levels, ion concentrations,
and blood glucose concentration. [1] This dynamic equilibrium can be upheld through the
body's feedback mechanisms. One example of this is how the body regulates its
temperature.
The body begins to regulate its temperature by sweating and increasing blood flow
into the skin. On the other hand, cold conditions can result in shivering and the
constriction of blood vessels, which can help conserve heat. These actions are carried out
through the body's negative feedback loops, which aim to return the temperature to its
ideal state.
Without proper regulation of internal factors, the body can be prone to experiencing
extreme fluctuations that can compromise its cellular functions. One example is
consumption coagulopathy, which occurs when the body's mechanism for regulating
blood clotting goes wrong.
Without proper regulation of internal factors, the body can be prone to
experiencing extreme fluctuations that can compromise its cellular functions. It can lead
to uncontrolled bleeding and a severe threat to survival. Disorders related to coagulation
result in an imbalance of blood clot formation, either excessive or insufficient. Typically
stemming from genetic mutations, these conditions can often be managed using
medications. When coagulation disorders occur, improper blood clotting can lead to
excessive bleeding. [2] The body's ability to maintain a stable state of equilibrium
through its feedback mechanisms is vital to its ability to adapt to a constantly changing
environment.
Homeostasis, as well as its feedback mechanisms, are crucial for our well-being
and survival. They demonstrate how the body can endure significant external obstacles. It
is a dynamic process that adjusts internal conditions to navigate external challenges rather
than remaining static and unchanging successfully. [3] From managing one's temperature
to regulating blood clotting, homeostasis enables us to endure a constantly changing
environment and thrive.
Citations/References:
1. Libretti S, Puckett Y. Physiology, homeostasis - StatPearls - NCBI bookshelf. Physiology,
Homeostasis. May 2023. Accessed August 12, 2023.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559138/.
2. Kandola A. Coagulation disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. Medical News
Today. October 27, 2021. Accessed August 12, 2023.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/coagulation-disorders.
3. Billman GE. Homeostasis: The underappreciated and far too often ignored central organizing
principle of physiology. Frontiers in physiology. March 10, 2020. Accessed August 12,
2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7076167/.