Lecture 3: Homeorhesis Flashcards
(11 cards)
Homeorhesis
The orchestrated/co-ordinated control in metabolism of body tissues necessary to support a physiological state
Give some examples of Homeorhesis
Pregnancy, lactation and growth
Describe what happens during pregnancy in regards to homeorhesis
Fat and glycogen is accumulated, direction of essential nutrients goes away from bone, muscle, tissue etc. and to the uterus.
What happens to support changes during pregnancy?
Blood flow to the growing tissues and vital maternal organs are increased
Why are essential nutrients directed away from muscle, bone and tissue during pregnancy?
To ensure the growth of the baby, the pregnant uterus and development of mammary glands
Is homeorhesis fast-acting?
No. it operates over longer periods of time
Name the system that is best suited for major homeorhetic control factors and why?
The endocrine system: hormones. It is well suited to regulating long-term changes
Explain what happens to the dam’s metabolism during pregnancy/lactation
Mammary glands demand a high amount of energy. The metabolism must be completely altered to provide requirements for milk synthesis.
Describe/explain the elephant seal during pregnancy and lactation
The mum nurses the 27kg pup, she doesnt eat/drink and loses 8kg a day while the pup gains 4kg a day. The dam then mates and goes to sea to feed again
Describe the result of diurnal changes
Diurnal changes result in circadian rhythms in metabolic rate, body temperature, mental activity, heart rate and blood pressure
What do these rhythms allow an organism to do?
Perform necessary functions the most effectively at appropriate times
