Reproduction: Part B

Vertebrate Endocrinology: Fundamentals and Biomedical Implication, Volume 4, Part B: Reproduction provides information relevant to the structure and function of the vertebrate reproductive endocrinology. This book deals with a variety of subjects, including oocyte maturation, gestation, ovulation, vitellogenesis, spermatogenesis, as well as the maturation and aging of the reproductive system. Organized into nine chapters, this volume starts with an overview of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is the physiological regulator of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) release from the pituitary gland. This book then explores the significance of gonadotropins in animal life, which act directly on the gonads of vertebrates and control the development, maturation, and release of gametes. Other chapters consider the interactions between the reproductive system and the pineal gland in photoperiodic mammals. The final chapter deals with the evolution of the endocrine systems, which is involved in the control of vertebrate reproduction. Reproductive endocrinologists and developmental neuroendocrinologists will find this book extremely useful.