The dynamic, homeostatic equilibrium maintained across all major physiological systems concerning circulating levels of hormones, electrolytes, nutrients, and metabolic intermediates. Achieving this balance ensures optimal cellular function, appropriate responsiveness to stimuli, and overall physiological resilience. It represents the desired operational state of the internal milieu.
Origin
This concept draws from general physiology and toxicology, where “systemic” refers to the entire body, and “chemical balance” describes the steady state of internal chemistry. It is the overarching goal of endocrinology and metabolism management.
Mechanism
Balance is maintained through intricate negative and positive feedback loops involving the endocrine glands, the nervous system, and excretory organs like the kidneys and liver. For example, the thyroid axis constantly adjusts TSH secretion based on circulating T3/T4 levels to maintain euthyroidism systemically. Disruptions in one pathway, such as chronic inflammation, can cascade, requiring compensatory adjustments across numerous other chemical signaling networks.
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