Hormoligosis

Definition

A phenomenon in which sublethal quantities of stress agents, such as chemicals, antibiotics, hormones, temperature, radiation, and minor wounds, stimulate an organism by providing increased efficiency to develop new or better systems to cope in a suboptimal environment.

Etymology

From Greek 'hormos' meaning 'impetus' and 'oligos' meaning 'small, few'.

Example

The hormoligosis effect of low doses of pesticides can lead to increased resistance in insect populations.

Related Terms

• Stress
• Tolerance
• Resistance

Usage Notes

Hormoligosis is a complex phenomenon and its exact mechanisms are not fully understood.