Process by which an organism maintains a constant, stable internal environment, despite fluctuating external environmental conditions
Maintenance of a constant internal environment is essential for optimal metabolic efficiency, as all life-sustaining chemical reactions are catalysed by enzymes
All internal conditions are maintained within a narrow range. Homeostatic mechanisms operate to maintain internal conditions within these narrow ranges
Enzymes are extremely sensitive and therefore work optimally under specific conditions
Malfunctions in homeostaticmechanisms lead to imbalances, resulting in cellular damage, causing disease and eventually death
Homeostasis requires feedback mechanisms to respond to changes in the internal environment. These feedback mechanisms are negative feedback loops
