Hormesis: interpreting the beta-curve using control theory.

Data from experiments exposing colonial hydroids to toxic growth inhibitors have provided evidence of growth control mechanisms that respond adaptively to counter toxic inhibition. Analysis of growth data and the development of simulation models provide an interpretation of both alpha- and beta-curves. The hypothesis also suggests that hormesis is related to adaptation by growth control mechanisms that confer tolerance to subsequent exposure. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.