ORGANIZATION FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL HOMEOSTASIS

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Abstract
Homeostasis is a word suggested to designate the steady states in the highly developed organism that are maintained by coordinated physiological reactions. These states are controlled by factors which influence the fluid matrix of the body. If the fluid matrix is changed in one direction or the other, the factors operate to restore the normal condition. Two types of homeostatic regulation are distinguished. They involve (a) supplies and (b) processes. The constancy of supplies in the fluid matrix is maintained by means of storage as an adjustment between an occasional abundance and later need. There are 2 kinds of storage[long dash]by inundation and segregation. Inundation is illustrated by the holding of materials, such as water, sugar and salts, in the loose areolar connective tissue in the various parts of the body until released as required. Segregation is a more complicated form of storage, commonly within cells, and is stable and lasting. It is seen in carbohydrate reserves as glycogen, in protein reserves as masses in liver cells, in fat reserves as adipose tissue, and in Ca reserves as the trabeculae of long bones. Evidence is presented to indicate that storage by segregation is under nervous or neuro-endocrine control. Back of storage, as assuring supplies which can be stored, are appetites and hunger and thirst. Homeostasis involving processes is maintained by altering the rate of a continuous process in accordance with need. Thus conditions disturbing the reaction of the blood are associated with changes in the rate of respiration and circulation which bring the reaction of the blood to normal. Conditions affecting temp. likewise excite physiological reactions which alter the continuous loss or production of heat so that normal temp. is maintained. The suggestion is offered that the "voluntary" nervous system be called the exterofective system with functions directed towards modifying relations of the organism to the outer world. Activity of this neuro-muscular apparatus, however, alters the fluid matrix of the body by producing acid waste, extra heat and reducing the reserves. The fluid matrix is kept uniform by reciprocal action of the "vegetative" nervous system, i.e., the sympathetic, which may be regarded as an interofective system. Some general postulates regarding homeostatic regulation are given as suggestions for further work in this field.

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