Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

upregulation

noun

ˌəpˌreɡyəˈleɪʃən

Definition

The process by which a cell increases the quantity of a cellular component, such as proteins or receptors, in response to an external stimulus.

Examples

During the treatment, the upregulation of certain immune receptors improved the body’s response to infections.
Scientists observed upregulation of gene expression in cells subjected to stress.
Upregulation of serotonin receptors in the brain may contribute to mood improvements.

Meaning

Upregulation refers to the enhancement of cellular functions through the increased production of specific proteins, often as a response to changes in the environment or external signals.