Abstract
Calabrese and Baldwin argue hormesis — low-dose stressors can strengthen biological systems while high doses harm — challenging linear dose-response dogma.
Calabrese, E. J., & Baldwin, L. A. (2003). Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 43(1), 175–197. DOI
Key findings
- Biphasic curve — Low dose helps, high dose hurts — U-shaped response.
- Adaptive stress — Small challenges prime repair — antifragile logic.
- Dose-response revolution — Toxicology and medicine revisit linear models.
- Context bound — What is low dose depends on system — not universal tonic.
Limits
Synthesis review — strong map for the field, not one fresh trial; use for orientation before primary studies.