Endocrine System
By: Sydney Archibald and Shelbie Rhodes
What is the function of the Endocrine System?
The endocrine system is made up of a network of glands. These glands secrete hormones to regulate many bodily functions, including growth and metabolism Endocrine diseases are common and usually occur when glands produce an incorrect amount of hormones.
What is homeostasis?
Homeostasis can be defined as a property of an organism or system that helps it maintain its parameters within a normal range of values. It is key to life, and failures in homeostasis can lead to diseases like hypertension and diabetes.
Negative Feedback Mechanism
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.The thermostat contains the receptor and control center. If the heating system is set at 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the heat 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.
What is Diabetes type 1 and type 2?
Type 1 - Type 1 diabetes typically appears in children and happens because of a lack of insulin. It’s caused when the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas are destroyed by an autoimmune response. The reason for this is still not well understood, but those with a genetic susceptibility are most at risk.There have also been suggestions that viral infections may trigger the process. This type of diabetes is treated with regular insulin injections and is also known as insulin dependent diabetes.
Type 2 - Type 2 diabetes is known as non-insulin dependent diabetes. Insulin is produced, but the muscles that would normally respond by taking up glucose to use as energy storage become insulin resistant, causing glucose levels in the blood to increase. Historically, type 2 diabetes was seen in middle-aged and elderly people and only rarely occurred in young people.. Recently, however, it has escalated in all age groups and is now being diagnosed in younger and younger patients including obese adolescents and children.