Defense physiology
Defense Physiology
Defense physiology (pronunciation: /dɪˈfɛns fɪzɪˈɒlədʒi/) is a branch of physiology that studies the body's protective responses to threats or harm, including infection, injury, and stress. The term is derived from the Latin defensum, meaning "to ward off", and the Greek physiologia, meaning "study of nature".
Overview
Defense physiology encompasses a wide range of bodily functions and systems, including the immune system, the nervous system, and the endocrine system. These systems work together to protect the body from harm and maintain homeostasis.
Immune System
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful microorganisms. This includes the production of antibodies, which bind to foreign substances and neutralize them.
Nervous System
The nervous system plays a crucial role in defense physiology by coordinating the body's responses to threats. This includes the fight-or-flight response, which prepares the body to either confront or flee from danger.
Endocrine System
The endocrine system also plays a key role in defense physiology. It produces hormones that regulate the body's responses to stress, including the release of cortisol, which helps the body respond to physical or emotional stress.
Related Terms
- Inflammation: A protective response involving immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators to remove harmful stimuli and initiate the healing process.
- Stress response: The body's reaction to stress, including the activation of the nervous and endocrine systems.
- Homeostasis: The state of steady internal conditions maintained by living things.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Defense physiology
- Wikipedia's article - Defense physiology
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