Physiological aspects of hormesis.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review synthesizing mechanistic theory without new human data or systematic methodology
PubMed 40769637 · doi:10.1016/bs.pbr.2025.05.001
What was done
Narrative review synthesizing the cellular and molecular mechanisms of hormesis, focusing on how intermittent stressors such as exercise, intermittent fasting, and environmental enrichment trigger adaptive neuroprotective pathways.
What was found
The abstract provides no quantitative empirical data or effect sizes. It describes a biphasic inverted U-shaped response where moderate stress modulates transcription factors including NF-κB, CREB, and Nrf2 to upregulate neuroprotective genes such as BDNF and heat shock proteins, whereas excessive or chronic stress produces allostatic load.
Why it matters
It outlines a biological framework connecting controlled physiological stress to enhanced neuroplasticity and resilience, pointing toward potential non-pharmacological strategies for neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric conditions.
Limits
As a narrative review, it contains no primary data, systematic search protocol, or quantitative synthesis. Specific translational dosing, safety boundaries, and human clinical trial outcomes are not reported in the abstract.
Cited by
- supports Cold plunging, sauna use, and exercise act as hormetic stressors that build resilience.