Models of Energy Metabolism of Intact Animals: Data Tabulations, Representation of Basal Metabolic Activities and Endocrine Effects Upon Metabolism

Explicit representation of several aspects of tissue metabolism has been found essential in animal models constructed to evaluate concepts and hypotheses regarding physiological regulatory mechanisms. Using a model of human metabolism as an example, an approach adopted for representation of animal energy metabolism is presented. Discussed are bases for identification of tissue and organ systems appropriately represented separately or in aggregate, definition of basal and variable functions of the tissue or organ system elements which comprise the model, systematic compilation of data required and example equations representing tissue energy metabolism, endocrine function and metabolic regulation.