MECHANISMS OF CELLULAR STRESS RESPONSE AND ADAPTATION Cells encounter countless stressors every moment—heat, toxins, DNA damage, oxidative bursts, and even simple nutrient shortages—and each one threatens their ability to function. But instead of giving up, our cells activate intelligent defense systems that repair proteins, neutralize free radicals, and restore balance. Learning to identify these cellular stressors helps us appreciate the silent, nonstop battle happening inside our bodies and r