sensibilisatsioon

Sensibilisatsioon, sometimes translated as sensitization, refers to the process by which an organism becomes more sensitive to a particular stimulus. This heightened sensitivity can occur through repeated exposure to the stimulus, leading to a stronger or more rapid response. In biological contexts, sensitization is a form of non-associative learning where an organism learns to respond more strongly to a repeated stimulus. This is often observed in the nervous system where pathways involved in processing the stimulus become more excitable. For example, in some invertebrates, repeated gentle touch can lead to a more vigorous withdrawal reflex.

This phenomenon is not limited to simple reflexes. In immunology, sensitization refers to the process where the immune system becomes primed to recognize and react against a specific antigen. This initial exposure can lead to the development of antibodies or immune cells that are specifically targeted to that antigen. Upon subsequent exposure, the immune response is much faster and more pronounced, which can sometimes manifest as allergic reactions. This is why initial exposure to an allergen might not cause a strong reaction, but subsequent exposures can trigger a significant immune response. The concept of sensitization is also relevant in psychology and pharmacology, where it describes an increased responsiveness to certain stimuli or drugs after repeated exposure.