Paul A. Kelly - Böcker

The field of endocrinology has exploded in the last 20 years because of advances in molecular and cell biology. This text integrates new knowledge about hormone structure and function with the more classical focus on endocrine physiology and metabolic disorders. The editors have assembled contributions by some of the world's leading endocrine researchers and clinical scientists. The result is an illustrated text that integrates findings from studies of structure, biosynthesis, genetics, metabolism and pathophysiology. Molecular structures of hormones and receptor families growth factors, and related oncogenes are presented. Fertility control, in vitro fertilization, and aging are discussed, as is the role of hormones in related pathophysiologies such as cancer, diabetes, and growth disorders. This text begins with an illustrated introductory chapter by Professor Baulieu that surveys virtually all areas of the subject, from the molecular aspects of hormonal communication between cells to comparative evolutionary endocrinology. Subsequent chapters concentrate on specific hormone systems.Following each chapter, molecular biologists, biochemists and endocrinologists contribute essays on special topics of current research interest. It is written at the level of the beginning graduate student in endocrinology, but should also serve as a useful reference for other scientists interested in endocrine systems and hormonal regulation of cellular function. Many clinicians and trainees should find this book a useful source of information on the relationship of molecular and cellular endocrinology to endocrine pathophysiology and therapeutic intervention.

Multicellular organisms require a means of intracellular communication to organize and develop the complex body plan that occurs during embryogenesis and then for cell and organ systems to access and respond to an ever changing environmental milieu. Mediators of this constant exchange of information are growth factors, neurotransmmitters, peptide and protein hormones which bind to cell surface receptors and transduce their signals from the extracellular space to the intracellular compartment. Via multiple signaling pathways, receptors of this general class affect growth, development and differentiation. Smaller hydrophobic signaling molecules, such as steroids and non-steroid hormones, vitamins and metabolic mediators interact with a large family of nuclear receptors. These receptors function as transcription factors affecting gene expression, to regulate the multiple aspects of animal and human physiology, including development, reproduction and homeostasis.The aim of this book is to cover various aspects of intracellular signaling involving hormone receptors.

Multicellular organisms require a means of intracellular communication to organize and develop the complex body plan that occurs during embryogenesis and then for cell and organ systems to access and respond to an ever changing environmental milieu. Mediators of this constant exchange of information are growth factors, neurotransmmitters, peptide and protein hormones which bind to cell surface receptors and transduce their signals from the extracellular space to the intracellular compartment. Via multiple signaling pathways, receptors of this general class affect growth, development and differentiation. Smaller hydrophobic signaling molecules, such as steroids and non-steroid hormones, vitamins and metabolic mediators interact with a large family of nuclear receptors. These receptors function as transcription factors affecting gene expression, to regulate the multiple aspects of animal and human physiology, including development, reproduction and homeostasis.The aim of this book is to cover various aspects of intracellular signaling involving hormone receptors.

Growth is a complex process that is essential to life. Not only does size play an important role in the process of cellular proliferation, but body size is also a critical factor in determining which organisms live longer. Evolution has been characterised by a dramatic increase in an organism’s body size, which is not only limited to the size of the brain.