BRAINCAKEThermoregulation in Endotherms
Thermoregulation is the control of core body temperature. In endotherms it is a negative feedback system with the same parts as any homeostatic system.
Receptors. Thermoreceptors detect temperature. Peripheral thermoreceptors in the skin detect changes in the temperature of the surroundings, giving early warning. Central thermoreceptors in the hypothalamus detect the temperature of the blood flowing through the brain, which reflects core temperature.
Coordinator. The hypothalamus compares this information with the norm (about 37 °C in humans) and sends impulses along nerves of the autonomic nervous system. It also triggers some hormonal responses.
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Key terms in this lesson
- autonomic nervous system
- The part of the nervous system that controls involuntary responses, such as those of the heat loss and heat gain centres.
More in Homeostasis
- Losing or Gaining Heat
- Control of Body Temperature
- Endotherms
- Ectotherms
- The Skin
- Keeping Cool
- Keeping Warm
- Control of Core Body Temperature
All 41 lessons in Homeostasis · All Edexcel A-level Biology topics