Homeostasis is the ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. It is a self-regulating process crucial for survival; if homeostasis fails, it can lead to disaster or death. The concept was first described by Claude Bernard in 1849, and the term "homeostasis" was coined by Walter Bradford Cannon in 1926.
Homeostasis involves multiple dynamic equilibrium adjustments controlled by interrelated regulation mechanisms. Key examples include the regulation of body temperature, blood pressure, fluid balance, oxygen levels, and blood sugar. These processes often rely on negative feedback loops, where the body senses a change and counteracts it to restore balance. The hypothalamus in the brain plays a vital role in regulating body temperature. Various systems such as the endocrine, respiratory, and muscular systems contribute to maintaining homeostasis. Recent research has explored the role of protein homeostasis (proteostasis) in preventing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
