Author Description

It Is Broadly Accepted That The Principles Of Homeostasis Apply To All Forms Of Physiological Stability. This Book Presents An Alternative Interpretation And Reviews Evidence Indicating That Multiple Forms Of Physiological Stability Exist In A Hierarchical Manner. The Concept Of Rheostasis Is Described And Shown To Be A Distinct Mechanism To Govern Regulated Changes In Physiological Stability. Using Three Decades Of Data At Genetic, Cellular, Hormonal, Neural And Behavioral Levels The Concept Of A Single Fixed Homeostatic Set Point Is Challenged And Instead Shown To Vary Predictably Over Time. Examples To Illustrate That Homeostasis And Rheostasis Are Distinct Physiological Mechanisms Include Biological Rhythms, Reproduction, Energy Balance, And The Innate Immune Response. A Theoretical Framework For The Hierarchical Control Of Physiological Stability, Supported By Mathematical Modelling Is Described And Includes Homeostasis, Rheostasis And Allostasis. The Concepts Outlined Provide A Fresh Perspective Of Physiological Control Of Healthy Animals And A New Understanding Of The Underlying Causes And Consequences Of Disruption Or Damage To Any Level Of Physiological Stability-- Provided By Publisher.