Homeostazën

Homeostazën, commonly aligned with the biological concept of homeostasis, denotes the ability of a living system to maintain stable internal conditions in the face of external changes. In organisms, this includes regulating variables such as body temperature, pH, fluid balance, electrolyte levels, and blood glucose within narrow ranges that support cellular function.

Core mechanisms rely on sensors that detect deviations, a processing center that compares values to set points, and effectors that act to restore balance. Most homeostazën employs negative feedback loops, which counteract changes. Positive feedback, by contrast, amplifies a response to achieve a specific outcome in certain processes.

Examples include thermoregulation by the nervous system and skin, glucose regulation by insulin and glucagon, acid–base balance by the kidneys and lungs, and hydration and electrolyte control by the kidneys and hormones. Disturbances in homeostazën can lead to disease states such as diabetes, dehydration, electrolyte disorders, or acid-base imbalances.

Historically, the concept arose in the 19th century with Claude Bernard’s idea of the milieu intérieur and was popularized as homeostasis by Walter Cannon in the early 20th century. The term derives from Greek roots meaning staying the same.

In contemporary discussions, homeostazën is often distinguished from allostasis, which emphasizes achieving stability through adaptive change in response to chronic stress. In technology and systems theory, analogous feedback-control principles are used to maintain performance in machines and networks.