Hormesis

Topic

Hormesis is a biological phenomenon characterized by a biphasic dose-response relationship, where low-dose exposure to a stressor or toxin stimulates a beneficial adaptive response, while high-dose exposure results in inhibitory or toxic effects. This adaptive mechanism allows cells and organisms to build resilience against stronger stressors through moderate, intermittent challenges. Examples of hormetic stressors include exercise, dietary restriction, and low levels of certain phytochemicals or radiation.