Defining the brain control of physiological stability

• Published in: Hormones and behavior Vol. 164; p. 105607
• Main Author: Stevenson, Tyler J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.08.2024
• Subjects: Allostasis; Computational modelling; Endocrinology; Homeostasis; Neuroscience; Rheostasis; Homeostasis; Neuroscience; Rheostasis; Endocrinology; Computational modelling; Allostasis
• ISSN: 0018-506X; 1095-6867; 1095-6867
• DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105607

The last few decades have seen major advances in neurobiology and uncovered novel genetic and cellular substrates involved in the control of physiological set points. In this Review, I discuss the limitations in the definition of homeostatic set points established by Walter B Canon and highlight evidence that two other physiological systems, namely rheostasis and allostasis provide distinct inputs to independently modify set-point levels. Using data collected over the past decade, the hypothalamic and genetic basis of regulated changes in set-point values by rheostatic mechanisms are described. Then, the role of higher-order brain regions, such as hippocampal circuits, for experience-dependent, allostatic induced changes in set-points are outlined. I propose that these systems provide a hierarchical organization of physiological stability that exists to maintain set-point values. The hierarchical organization of physiology has direct implications for basic and medical research, and clinical practice. •Multiple physiological systems exhibit variation beyond homeostatic control.•Regulated, rheostatic changes in physiological set-point enhance fitness.•A three-level hierarchical organization of physiological stability is proposed.•Homeostasis, rheostasis and allostasis have distinct genes, cells, and systems.•Computational modelling supports a multi-tiered level of physiological control.