A Symbolic Model for the Regulation by Bone Metabolism of the Blood Calcium Level in Rats

Abstract

The control by bone metabolism of the blood calcium level in young rats may be described in terms of a regulator-type system. The model presented here comprises a feedback loop involving only a proportional control in thyroparathyroidectomized, and a combination of proportional and integral controls in normal animals. It accounts for the variations observed when the system was subjected to a variety of experimental constraints. The implications, limitations, and possible extensions of the model are discussed. © 1965, The Biophysical Society. All rights reserved.