principles of endocrinology Flashcards
hormone homeostasis: define positive and negative feedback, and explain how any hormone system is controlled
1
Q
define negative feedback
A
when a function of the output of a mechanism is fed back in a manner that reduces the fluctuations in the output (e.g. when hormone levels decrease, endocrine gland detects this and works to increase levels)
2
Q
define positive feedback
A
amplification of an effect by its own influence on the process which gives rise to it (e.g. when hormone levels increase, endocrine gland detects and further increases; e.g. oxytocin in pregnancy)
3
Q
why is negative feedback required
A
to prevent excessive hormone action and production, so maintains hormone homeostasis
