Hormesis

The book "Hormesis: A Revolution in Biology, Toxicology and Medicine" offers a comprehensive analysis of the concept of hormesis, which describes how low doses of harmful substances or conditions can elicit adaptive and beneficial responses in cells or organisms, while high doses have detrimental effects. The authors, Mark P. Mattson and Edward J. Calabrese, explain the biphasic dose-response curve that is central to hormesis and demonstrate how this principle is embedded in all living systems. The book highlights the evolutionary foundations of hormesis and its significance for health, the environment, and future developments. Numerous examples and current research findings are presented to elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms behind hormesis. The authors argue that a better understanding of hormesis is crucial for the prevention of diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases, and that this knowledge should be integrated into political and medical decision-making processes.