The intrinsic and extrinsic molecular components and physiological processes that endow a cell with the capacity to withstand, adapt to, and rapidly recover from various forms of biological stress, such as oxidative damage, thermal extremes, or nutrient deprivation. These factors are crucial determinants of tissue health and biological longevity. They include protective proteins and robust homeostatic systems that buffer against environmental and metabolic challenges.
Origin
The term integrates the biological unit, the “cell,” with the psychological and engineering concept of “resilience,” referring to the ability to spring back or recover, and “factors” representing the causative agents. It is a modern concept in the biology of aging, emphasizing the cell’s ability to maintain function despite cumulative damage.
Mechanism
These factors operate through several pathways, including the upregulation of heat shock proteins to prevent protein misfolding, activation of antioxidant defense enzymes like superoxide dismutase, and the enhanced efficiency of DNA repair systems. The overall mechanism centers on maintaining proteostasis and genomic stability under duress. Hormonal signals, such as thyroid hormone, influence the expression of these protective genes.
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