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Secretory Capacity

Meaning

The maximal physiological ability of an endocrine gland or a specific cell type to synthesize, store, and release its corresponding hormone or signaling molecule in response to a maximal or supramaximal stimulus. This metric reflects the functional reserve and health of the glandular tissue, with diminished secretory capacity often indicating glandular fatigue, cellular senescence, or chronic pathological stress. Clinically, it is assessed through dynamic stimulation tests, such as the ACTH stimulation test for adrenal function.