4. Give a biologic example of the negative feed-back loop.
A biological example of a negative feedback loop is the regulation of blood glucose
levels by the hormones insulin and glucagon. According to an excerpt from the BBC,
when glucose levels in the blood rise, insulin is released and prompts the liver, muscles,
and other tissues to store the extra glucose as glycogen or fat, therefore lowering blood
sugar levels. Vice versa, when blood glucose drops too low, the pancreas releases
glucagon, which stimulates the liver to convert stored glycogen back into glucose and
release it into the bloodstream. These opposite hormonal responses work together to
maintain glucose homeostasis (BBC Bitesize, Coordination and control – The human
endocrine system – Edexcel).
5. Why do we need to understand cell physiology in public health?
Understanding cell physiology is important in public health because it helps us
comprehend how diseases develop and affect the body at a cellular level. This
knowledge allows for more effective prevention strategies, early diagnosis, and targeted
treatments. According to the textbook “basic cell functions are important for the survival
of the individual cell, while the specialized functions contribute to the survival of the
system or whole body”. (Determinants of Health, 2023) So understanding the basic cell
physiology will better understand the function of the body, which is vital in public health.