Final answer:
The mechanistic explanation for sensitization involves an increase in calcium flux, which leads to an amplification of the cellular response to a stimulus through various downstream effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mechanistic explanation for sensitization involves an increase in calcium flux. Sensitization is a process where the responsiveness of a cell or tissue increases due to previous exposure to a particular stimulus. In the context of neural sensitization, an increase in calcium flux leads to an amplification of the cellular response to a stimulus, resulting in enhanced sensitivity. This increase in calcium ion concentration can lead to various downstream effects, including changes in gene expression and the release of neurotransmitters, contributing to the sensitized state.