Downregulation

Definition

Downregulation is the process by which a cell decreases the quantity of a cellular component, such as RNA or protein, in response to an external stimulus. In the context of hormones within the endocrine system, it specifically refers to the decrease in the number of hormone receptors on the surface of target cells, making them less sensitive to a hormone.

Related terms

Hormones:

Chemical messengers that are secreted by endocrine glands directly into the blood, which carries them to target organs or cells to exert their function.

Endocrine System:

A network of glands and organs that produce, store, and secrete hormones into the bloodstream to regulate body processes such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Upregulation: The process by which a cell increases the quantity of cellular components like receptors in response to an external stimulus, making it more sensitive to a hormone or another agent