upregulation

This term is a specialized technical expression used primarily in molecular biology, pharmacology, and genetics. It describes a compensatory mechanism where a cell increases its sensitivity to a stimulus by producing more receptors or increasing gene expression. It is the direct opposite of downregulation.

In a clinical or research context, the word is used to describe a biological response rather than a conscious action. Because it refers to a specific physiological process, it is almost exclusively found in scientific literature, medical reports, and academic textbooks rather than in general conversation.