The targeted clinical strategy of modulating the number of specific hormone receptors expressed on the surface or within a target cell to enhance or diminish the cell’s sensitivity to a particular hormone. This adjustment is a sophisticated method of optimizing the biological effect of a hormone without necessarily altering its circulating concentration. It addresses the tissue-level responsiveness component of hormonal signaling.
Origin
This concept is a core principle of classical endocrinology, where receptor up-regulation and down-regulation are known homeostatic mechanisms. Its clinical application in personalized endocrinology leverages this knowledge to overcome issues of hormone resistance or hypersensitivity. The term ‘adjustment’ highlights the therapeutic, goal-oriented nature of the intervention.
Mechanism
Adjustment is mechanistically achieved through various means, including pulsed hormone administration, specific nutraceutical cofactors, or pharmacological agents that influence gene expression of the receptor protein. For instance, intermittent exposure to a hormone can prevent down-regulation and promote up-regulation of its receptor. The mechanism aims to ensure the hormone’s message is received and transduced with optimal fidelity.
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