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Biological Time Constant

Meaning

The Biological Time Constant is a conceptual metric representing the characteristic duration required for a specific physiological process or system to respond significantly to a change in stimulus and move toward a new steady state. This constant reflects the inherent inertia and the speed of responsiveness of complex biological systems, from hormone half-lives to the time needed for a metabolic shift. Clinically, a clear understanding of this time constant is essential for accurately timing diagnostic tests and for making informed therapeutic adjustments.