Give an example of a negative feedback mechanism in the human body.

When the hypothalamus in the brain detects that the blood is getting too concentrated (not enough water), it stimulates the pituitary gland to release an anti-diuretic hormone (ADH). When it reaches the kidneys it causes them to reabsorb more water, which results in more concentrated urine. This hopefully restores the blood water level back to normal (though it would obviously fail if no water was taken in by the human for a long time). An inverse process occurs when the blood is too dilute (though I'll not elaborate on it here for sake of space).

PM
Answered by Paul M. Biology tutor

7689 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How does the eye respond to light?


What is osmosis?


There is an increasing worry about the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such as MRSA. How can doctors ensure that this threat is minimised? (2 marks)


What role does auxin play in the processes of phototropism?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning