Chapter Objectives

After studying this chapter, students should be able to . . .

2. Describe the characteristics of the scientific method.

3. Define homeostasis and describe how this concept is used in physiology and medicine.

4. Explain the nature of negative feedback loops and how these mechanisms act to maintain homeostasis.

5. Explain how antagonistic effectors help to maintain homeostasis.

6. Explain the nature of positive feedback loops and how these function in the body.

7. Distinguish between intrinsic and extrinsic regulation, and explain, in a general way, the roles of the nervous and endocrine systems in body regulation.

8. Explain how negative feedback inhibition helps to regulate the secretion of hormones, using insulin as an example.

9. List the four primary tissues and their subtypes and describe the distinguishing features of each primary tissue.

10. Relate the structure of each primary tissue to its functions.

11. Describe how the primary tissues are grouped into organs, using the skin as an example.

12. Describe the nature and significance of the extracellular and intracellular compartment of the body and explain the significance of this compartmentalization.