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The Hormesis Concept: Strengths and Shortcomings.
1Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
Biomolecules
|October 28, 2023
Summary
Hormesis describes how low doses of stressors can benefit organisms, while high doses may harm them. This review objectively examines evidence for this biphasic dose-response phenomenon.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Organismal responses to stressors are often non-linear, exhibiting hormesis.
- Hormesis suggests low-dose exposure can be beneficial, contrasting high-dose toxicity.
- This biphasic response is observed in various toxicants and physical conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence supporting hormesis across different exposures.
- To identify instances lacking robust scientific support for hormesis.
- To discuss the breadth and underlying mechanisms of hormetic effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating hormesis.
- Analysis of dose-response data for various stressors.
- Evaluation of evidence quality and supporting data.
Main Results:
- Hormesis is supported by evidence in certain pharmacological and nutraceutical contexts.
- Some claims of hormesis lack sufficient scientific validation.
- The phenomenon's breadth and mechanisms require further objective investigation.
Conclusions:
- Hormesis represents a significant non-linear dose-response model.
- Objective scientific inquiry is crucial, free from policy influences.
- Further research into hormesis mechanisms and limitations is warranted.
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