Principles: Temperature regulation

Question 1

Core body temperature?

Answer 1

37.8 oC

Question 2

What is the site of the body temperature control centre?

Answer 2

Hypothalamus

Question 3

What effectors’ responses are signalled by the hypothalamus in response to cold exposure?

Answer 3

1. Vasoconstriction of skin arterioles

2. Increased skeletal muscle tone and shivering

Question 4

What does the hypothalamus signal in response to heat?

Answer 4

1. Vasodilatation of skin arterioles
2. Increased sweating
3. Decreased skeletal muscle tone

Question 5

How is the temperature raised in response to inflammation?

Answer 5

1. Macrophages secrete pyrogenic interleukins
2. Prostaglandins are released in the hypothalamus
3. Prostglandins ‘reset’ the thermostat at a higher temperature
4. Fever results