Lesson 4.

Homeostasis
Homeostasis is the regulation of the internal conditions within cells and whole organisms such
as temperature, water, and sugar levels. This keeps cells and organisms functioning at optimal
levels even when challenged by internal and external changes.
Homeostasis in the endocrine system is a crucial aspect of the body's overall functioning. The
endocrine system comprises several glands such as the pineal gland, pituitary gland,
hypothalamus, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, adrenal gland, pancreas, and gonads (ovaries
and testes). These glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, which control various
body processes like breathing, blood circulation, metabolism, digestion, body temperature
regulation, and mood, among others

The hypothalamus, cortisone, and posterior pituitary can be found in the human body.

The hypothalamus is a small region located at the base of the brain, just above the pituitary
gland. It plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions and maintaining homeostasis.

Cortisone is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the
kidneys. It is a type of glucocorticoid hormone that helps regulate metabolism, immune
response, and stress levels in the body.

In order to repair any damaged tissues that may arise from the approaching crisis, the body
needs cortisone to provide amino acids and an additional energy source.

The pituitary gland is divided into two distinct regions: the anterior lobe (adenohypophysis) and
the posterior lobe (neurohypophysis). The anterior pituitary secretes the majority of hormones,
which are under the regulation of hormones released from the hypothalamus.

The posterior pituitary is a part of the pituitary gland, which is often referred to as the "master
gland" of the body. The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain, below the
hypothalamus. The posterior pituitary stores and releases hormones produced by the
hypothalamus, such as oxytocin and vasopressin.
 The anterior pituitary, also
known as the
adenohypophysis,
is located within the sella
turcica of the sphenoid bone. It
is part of the pituitary gland, which is a vital structure in the human body responsible for
producing and releasing hormones that regulate various bodily functions.

The endocrine system is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body by regulating
various physiological processes through the release of hormones. There are several diseases
or conditions that can affect homeostasis in the endocrine system. Some common examples
include:

1. Diabetes: Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. It

occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the
insulin it produces. This disrupts the regulation of glucose levels in the body, affecting
homeostasis.
 2. Addison's disease: Addison's disease is a condition where the adrenal glands do not
produce enough cortisol and aldosterone. This can lead to imbalances in electrolytes,
blood pressure, and other functions that affect homeostasis.
3. Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce
enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to a slowdown in the body's metabolism,
causing fatigue, weight gain, and other symptoms that disrupt homeostasis.
4. Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism is the opposite of hypothyroidism, where the thyroid
gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones. This can result in an increased
metabolism, weight loss, and other symptoms that disrupt homeostasis.

https://www.yourhormones.info/students/topics/homeostasis/#:~:text=Homeostasis%20is
%20the%20regulation%20of,by%20internal%20and%20external%20changes.
https://www.britannica.com/science/human-endocrine-system/The-endocrine-system-and-the-
human-system
https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/endocrine-system-disorders
https://flexbooks.ck12.org/cbook/ck-12-advanced-biology/section/17.23/primary/lesson/
endocrine-system-diseases-and-disorders-advanced-bio-adv/