Molecular Mechanisms of Responses to Low-Intensity Exposures

Dear Colleagues,

Low-intensity exposures are the most unexplored field of modern molecular toxicology. A lack of knowledge on the mechanisms of low-intensive factors causes problems in (a) the prediction of biological effects, (b) overcoming negative consequences, and (c) application of positive results. Therefore, the analysis of low impacts is topical from both fundamental and applied standpoints, particularly for ecology, biology, and medicine.

Modern toxicology uses three dose–response models: linear, threshold, and hormesis. The latter implies an activation of physiological functions at low-dose exposures and their inhibition at higher doses and describes these effects in terms of ‘adaptive response’ and ‘toxicity’, respectively. It is supposed that the hormesis model can be applied as a basic one, transforming to the other models under definite restrictions.

Studies of biological responses to bioactive compounds, radiation of different types, etc. under the conditions of low-intensity exposures are encouraged. A chemical and biochemical basis for these responses is of interest.

Prof. Dr. Nadezhda

Guest Editor