Dem Bones

April 14th, 10:00 PM

I'll introduce the skeletal system in a second, but first let's wrap up our conversation about homeostasis by discussing types of feedback. Positive feedback occurs when the output of the system stimulates the system in such a way as to further increase the output. One example is the release of the chemicals estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy. Negative feedback occurs when a system's output acts to reduce or dampen the processes that lead to the output of that system. An example here includes the body's regulation of temperature.

Unit 9: HOMEOSTATIC MAINTENANCE briefly explained prominent examples of homeostasis. A homeostasis of ions includes the amount of calcium in the blood. A homeostasis of molecules includes the relationship between insulin and glucagon. It also exlplained a relating case study on Diabetes.

Type 1 occurs when pancreatic beta cells are destroyed by the immune system, resulting in a complete lack of insulin from birth or disease.

Type 2 occurs when tissues develop a resistance to normal levels of insulin over time, often due to obesity. Both are examples of homeostatic failure.

On to the skeletal system. First, I'll describe six common dysfunctions of the skeletal system.

1. Fractures: The breaking of bones

2. Osteoarthritis: A chronic inflammation and damage of the articular cartilage

3. Osteogenesis imperfecta: A genetic condition leading to small bones

4. Osteomalacia ("rickets"): A bone disorder caused by a lack of vitamin D

5. Osteoporosis: A bone weakening condition that is most common in women and caused by hormonal changes

6. Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease that can also damage the articular cartilage similar to osteoarthritis

To understand these dysfunctions, it is essential to understand the skeletal system as a whole and its structures.

Bones

- Protect vital structures in the body

- Support muscles

- Allow movement through coordination with the muscular system

- Hemotopoiesis occurs within the bone marrow (generation of red blood cells)

- Store and release calcium and phosphorus, both of which are needed for muscle contraction and neural signaling

- Come together at articulations (joints)

Connective tissues

- Includes cartilage, ligaments, and tendons

- Cartilage coats the end of the bones where they meet at joints, providing a smooth, cushioned surface. It can serve as a template for bone formation.

- Ligaments connect bones to one another and stabilize joints

- Tendons connect bones to muscles

End: 11:00 PM

#skeletalsystem #physiology #homeostasis #anatomy #capacitybuilding #seniorproject