What is the Origin of Hormesis Response?

Derived from the Greek 'hormesis' meaning 'rapid setting in motion' or 'to escape quickly,' indicating a rapid beneficial reaction to mild challenge. This concept bridges toxicology and biology to explain adaptive stress.

What is the Mechanism of Hormesis Response?

Mild stressors, such as specific exercise protocols or nutrient deprivation, trigger protective cellular mechanisms like the activation of heat shock proteins or the induction of antioxidant enzymes. These adaptations improve the cell's capacity to handle future, greater insults, often involving upstream signaling that supports sirtuin activity. This controlled challenge enhances overall physiological resilience.

Hormesis Response ∞ Area

Hormesis Response

Meaning

A dose-response phenomenon where a low dose of a potentially toxic or stressful agent induces a beneficial adaptive response that is greater than the response to a higher dose or no dose at all. In endocrinology, this explains how controlled stressors promote systemic resilience and longevity pathways. It is a fundamental principle of hormetic adaptation.