Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2026

Viability Assays for Cells in Culture
Published on: January 20, 2014
Abstract:
Low doses of ionizing radiation are widely believed to produce effects similar to those observed at high doses; only the incidence (i.e. risk) varies with dose. Furthermore, it is assumed that effects other than those observed at high doses will not occur at low doses. Yet there have been frequent reports in the literature of "anomalies" at low doses--effects unrelated to and unpredictable from the high-dose exposure experiences. These have been referred to as "hormetic" effects. These effects have their parallel with other hormetic effects seen with many other agents generally considered toxic. It is postulated that hormesis has previously received scant attention because it conflicts with the conventional radiation science paradigm.
Related Concept Videos
Hormonal Regulation
Intracellular Hormone Receptors
Hormonal Regulation
Plant Hormones
Plant Hormones
Target Cell Response to Hormones
Notably, the cellular response can be regulated by altering the number of receptors expressed in the cell. For example, prolonged exposure to elevated hormone levels results in a gradual decline or down-regulation in the number of receptors for that specific hormone on the cell surface. Conversely, in response to low hormone levels, cells may use up-regulation, producing an...

