Homeostasis theory: What can we learn from dormancy and symbiotic associations?

In this letter, I discuss the notion of dormancy that De Luca Jr. relies on to criticize the theory of homeostasis. In particular, I try to qualify the issues related to the fact that dormancy is not always a free behavior but is in most situations under the influence of environmental factors. To this end, I discuss diapause in arthropods, which can be obligatory (under the influence of endogenous commands) but which is in most cases facultative (under external command). I emphasize that the notion of stability of a dormant organism must be taken with caution. I briefly mention what the study of sleep in animals can contribute to the notion of homeostasis. Finally, I focus on the role of microbial symbionts and the notion of holobiont. Through this, I question the future of the notions of internal environment and homeostasis and I propose to revisit them in the context of the effects of species in-teractions on the physiology of organisms.

Automated summary

This letter discusses the concept of dormancy and raises concerns about its stability and external influences. Using examples such as diapause in arthropods, the author emphasizes the cautious approach needed when considering the stability of dormant organisms. The study also mentions the role of sleep in animals and microbial symbionts in questioning the notions of internal environment and homeostasis, proposing a reevaluation in the context of species interactions.