You should understand by now that organ systems interact to maintain homeostasis. Each organ system has a specific job to complete, however organ systems must also work together to keep the organism healthy. You read about how thermoregulation maintains a steady body temperature, and involves multiple organ systems.

Disruptions to homeostasis can be harmful. A disruption can be caused by any of the following:

• sensors fail
• targets do not receive messages
• injury
• illness

Short term disruptions usually cause little or no harm. Long term disruptions can be more damaging. Watch the Bozeman Science video, Homeostatic Disruptions.