Homeostasis plays a pervasive role in shaping the form and function of all biological molecules and organismsStudents should be able to explain and apply core concepts of underlying homeostasis, including the need for biological balance, linked steady state processes, quantification of homeostasis, the organization of chemical processes, and control mechanisms. Show
The learning goals below are categorized as introductory A, intermediate B and upper C. 1. Biological need for homeostasisBiological homeostasis is the ability to maintain relative stability and function as changes occur in the internal or external environment. Organisms are viable under a relatively narrow set of conditions. As such, there is a need to tightly regulate the concentrations of metabolites and small molecules at the cellular level to ensure survival. To optimize resource use and to maintain conditions, the organism may sacrifice efficiency for robustness. Breakdown of homeostatic regulation can contribute to the cause or progression of disease or lead to cell death. Associated learning goals
2. Link steady state processes and homeostasisA system that is in a steady state remains constant over time, but that constant state requires continual work. A system in a steady state has a higher level of energy than its surroundings. Biochemical systems maintain homeostasis via regulation of gene expression, metabolic flux and energy transformation but are never at equilibrium. Associated learning goals
3. Quantifying homeostasisMultiple reactions with intricate networks of activators and inhibitors are involved in biological homeostasis. Modifications of such networks can lead to activation of previously latent metabolic pathways or even to unpredicted interactions between components of these networks. These pathways and networks can be mathematically modeled and correlated with metabolomics data and kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of individual components to quantify the effects of changing conditions related to either normal or disease states. Associated learning goals
4. Control mechanismsHomeostasis is maintained by a series of control mechanisms functioning at the organ, tissue or cellular level. These control mechanisms include substrate supply, activation or inhibition of individual enzymes and receptors, synthesis and degradation of enzymes, and compartmentalization. The primary components responsible for the maintenance of homeostasis can be categorized as stimulus, receptor, control center, effector and feedback mechanism. Associated learning goals
5. Cellular and organismal homeostasisHomeostasis in an organism or colony of single celled organisms is regulated by secreted proteins and small molecules often functioning as signals. Homeostasis in the cell is maintained by regulation and by the exchange of materials and energy with its surroundings. Associated learning goals
What is the internal balance that is maintained by the cell membrane and cell transport?Homeostasis is the maintenance of stable internal conditions in a changing environment. Individual cells, as well as organisms, must maintain homeostasis in order to live. One way that a cell maintains homeostasis is by controlling the movement of substances across the cell membrane.
What part of the cell maintains homeostasis or balance in the movement of materials going in and out of the cell?- The structure of the cell membrane allows it to regulate movement of materials into and out of the cell.
Which process allows movement in and out of cells?Dissolved or gaseous substances have to pass through the cell membrane to get into or out of a cell. Diffusion is one of the processes that allows this to happen. Diffusion occurs when particles spread.
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