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Hormonal Receptor Downregulation

Meaning

Hormonal Receptor Downregulation is a fundamental homeostatic mechanism in which a cell reduces its sensitivity to a specific hormone by decreasing the number of available receptors on its surface or within its cytoplasm. This adaptive response typically occurs following prolonged or excessive exposure to high concentrations of the corresponding hormone, serving as a protective mechanism to prevent overstimulation and maintain cellular equilibrium. Clinically, downregulation can lead to reduced efficacy of hormone therapies and is a key consideration in precision dosing protocols.