Hypertrofinen

Hypertrofinen is a term derived from the Greek words "hyper" meaning over or excessive, and "trophia" meaning nourishment or growth. It is generally used to describe an excessive or abnormal increase in the size of an organ or tissue due to an enlargement of its constituent cells. This is distinct from hyperplasia, which involves an increase in the number of cells.

Hypertrophy can occur as a normal physiological adaptation or as a pathological response. Physiological hypertrophy is commonly seen in muscle tissue. For example, skeletal muscles can enlarge in response to regular exercise and increased workload. Similarly, the heart muscle may undergo physiological hypertrophy in athletes to better pump blood efficiently.

Pathological hypertrophy, on the other hand, is often a response to disease or chronic stress. In the heart, for instance, conditions like hypertension or valvular heart disease can lead to pathological hypertrophy as the heart muscle works harder to overcome increased resistance. This can eventually impair the organ's function. Other organs can also exhibit hypertrophy in response to various pathological stimuli. The underlying mechanisms involve increased protein synthesis and cellular growth signaling pathways.