A general classification of U-shaped dose-response relationships in toxicology and their mechanistic foundations

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The development of a comprehensive database of chemical hormetic responses (i.e., U-or inverted U-shaped dose-response relationships) using objective a priori study design, statistical and study replication criteria has recently been reported.1 An assessment of this database reveals the existence of a wide range of hormetic dose-reponse relationships including those demonstrating a direct stimulation or an overcompensation response to a disruption of homeostasis. These two broad types of hormetic responses are affected by temporal factors and display unique patterns of dose-range stimulation, magnitude of stimulatory response and relationship of the maximum stimulatory response to the NOAEL. A general classification of U-shaped dose-response relationships is proposed to provide a more organized framework to evaluate the highly distinctive and diverse hormetic responses within the context of establishing underlying biological mechanisms and exploring risk assessment implications.

This publication has 48 references indexed in Scilit: