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Intermittent Hormone Signaling

Meaning

Intermittent hormone signaling refers to the strategic administration or physiological release of hormones in a non-continuous, pulsed, or cyclical pattern to maximize receptor sensitivity and mimic natural endocrine rhythms. This approach capitalizes on the principle that continuous, non-stop stimulation often leads to receptor downregulation and desensitization, diminishing the hormone’s biological effectiveness. By incorporating periods of low or no signaling, the system is allowed to “reset,” enhancing the overall biological response to the hormone. This strategy is central to optimizing the efficacy of certain hormone therapies.