How does feedback inhibition help the body maintain homeostasis?

• A. By increasing the production of hormones to enhance physiological responses.
• B. By reducing the activity of enzymes to prevent excessive accumulation of products.
• C. By promoting the constant release of neurotransmitters to maintain equilibrium.
• D. By stimulating the nervous system to initiate a fight-or-flight response.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of homeostasis: Homeostasis is the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.
2. Define feedback inhibition: Feedback inhibition is a regulatory mechanism where the end product of a metabolic pathway inhibits an enzyme involved in its synthesis, thus preventing the overproduction of that product.
3. Identify the role of feedback inhibition in homeostasis: Feedback inhibition helps maintain homeostasis by reducing the activity of enzymes when there is an excess of a product, thus preventing the accumulation of substances that could disrupt balance.
4. Analyze the options: Consider how each option relates to feedback inhibition and homeostasis. Increasing hormone production or neurotransmitter release, or stimulating the nervous system, do not directly involve feedback inhibition.
5. Conclude with the correct mechanism: Feedback inhibition maintains homeostasis by reducing enzyme activity to prevent excessive accumulation of products, aligning with the body's need to regulate internal conditions.