There is growing interest in finding ways to enhance longevity and the quality of life. This paper summarizes a vast scientific literature over the past two decades that has suggested approaches to enhancing biological resilience - and particularly neurological function - via hormetic and preconditioning processes. The employment of hormesis and preconditioning has been shown to protect biological systems from many of the effects of aging, both by sustaining structural and functional integrity, and by affording relative protection against certain types of diseases. The paper confronts the challenges - and opportunities - for society when considering possible practical use of evolving evidence about the mechanisms, processes and effects of these biological phenomena.
Keywords: Acquired resilience; Adaptive response; Biphasic dose responses; Hormesis; Postconditioning; Preconditioning.
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