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Unit 4 Vocabulary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Homeostasis | the process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment in response to changing external conditions. It is a dynamic process that constantly adjusts various parameters to ensure the optimal functioning of the organism. |
| Nervous System | a complex network of specialized cells called neurons that transmit signals to control various bodily functions, including movement, sensation, and thought. |
| Neuron/Nerve | the basic unit of the nervous system. It is a specialized cell that can receive, process, and transmit electrical and chemical signals. Neurons are interconnected through synapses, forming intricate networks that carry information throughout the body. |
| Synapse | the junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted from one cell to another. It is a tiny gap between the presynaptic neuron, which releases neurotransmitters, and the postsynaptic neuron, which receives the signals and responds accordingly. |
| Neurotransmitters | chemical messengers that are released by neurons to transmit signals across synapses. They bind to receptors on other neurons, triggering responses that affect various bodily functions. |
| Receptors | molecules located on the surface of cells that can detect and bind to specific molecules, such as neurotransmitters or hormones. They act as signal transducers, converting the binding of a ligand into a cellular response. |
| Endocrine System | a network of glands that produce and release hormones, which are chemical messengers that regulate various bodily functions. Hormones travel through the bloodstream to target cells, influencing their activity and coordinating physiological processes. |
| Glands | specialized organs that produce and secrete substances, such as hormones, enzymes, or sweat. Endocrine glands release hormones into the bloodstream, while exocrine glands release their secretions onto surfaces or into ducts. |
| Hormones | chemical messengers that are produced by endocrine glands and transported through the bloodstream to target cells. They trigger responses that regulate various bodily functions, including growth, development, metabolism, and reproduction. |
| Diabetes | chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. It occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or doesn't use insulin effectively. |
| Blood Glucose | also known as blood sugar, is the main source of energy for the body's cells. It is derived from the breakdown of carbohydrates in food and is regulated by hormones like insulin and glucagon. |
| Insulin/Glucagon | are pancreatic hormones that play opposing roles in regulating blood glucose levels. Insulin promotes glucose uptake by cells, while glucagon stimulates glucose release from the liver. |
| Pancreas | a gland located behind the stomach that plays a crucial role in digestion and endocrine function. It produces digestive enzymes that break down food in the small intestine and releases hormones to regulate blood glucose levels. |
| Immune System | a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that defends the body against pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It recognizes and eliminates foreign substances while protecting the body from self-harm. |
| Pathogen | a disease-causing agent, such as a bacterium, virus, or fungus. It can invade the body and cause infection, leading to various health problems. |
| Antigen | a foreign substance that is recognized by the immune system as non-self. It triggers an immune response to eliminate the pathogen or foreign material. |
| Antibody | a Y-shaped protein produced by B lymphocytes in the immune system. It is designed to bind specifically to a particular antigen, marking it for destruction by other immune cells. |
| Vaccine | contains weakened or inactive forms of pathogens or their antigens, which stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells without causing the disease itself. |
| Allergy | an abnormal immune response to a normally harmless substance |
| HIV/AIDS | a virus that attacks the immune system, gradually weakening its ability to fight infections and diseases. |
| Autoimmune Disorders | a group of conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy tissues. This can lead to a wide range of symptoms, depending on the specific organs or tissues involved. |
| Organ Transplants | a surgical procedure in which a healthy organ is removed from one person (the donor) and transplanted into another person (the recipient) who has a damaged or failing organ. |
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