Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) cells are the key regulators of reproductive function in all vertebrate organisms. The GnRH molecule is synthesized in a small number of neurons in rostral hypothalamic regions of the brain. In mammals, these neurons release the GnRH decapeptide into the portal capillary system leading to the anterior pituitary gland. There, GnRH causes the release of the gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which in turn act upon the gonads to stimulate their maturation, and to cause synthesis of sex steroid hormones, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Although each of the levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is critical for reproductive function, GnRH neurons play the primary role in the control of reproductive maturation and adult reproductive function, and may even play a role in reproductive senescence. Since its discovery in 1970, there has been intense interest in GnRH-producing neurons, with more than 8000 papers and chapters in the last decade alone. Despite this activity of research in basic and clinical science, there has never been a book written specifically on GnRH neurons. GnRH: The Master Molecule of Reproduction aims to bring together the large and diverse literature of both laboratory and applied research that focuses on these unique cells. This book will provide basic background into reproductive neuroendocrinology, as well as specifics regarding the role of GnRH neurons in the control of reproduction. Students studying endocrinology, reproduction, neuroendocrinology or molecular endocrinology will benefit from this book. In addition, this book will take a multi-species approach which will be useful both to basic researchers as well as clinicians. Whenever possible, species differences and similarities will be presented, and if possible, studies on humans, or the clinical relevance of basic research findings to humans will be discussed (such as the treatment of reproductive disorders such as abnormalities in pubertal development, or infertility).

This book offers updates on the full range of contemporary GnRH knowledge, as articulated by authoritative contributors with extensive neurophysiology experience. In this new comprehensive volume, internationally-renowned experts explain what GnRH is, describe how it works, follow its associated pathology, and predict where future GnRH research is likely headed. These objectives are clearly developed by sixteen concise yet thorough chapters covering themes across human clinical medicine, veterinary science, marine organisms, and transitional states as observed in so-called living fossils, as well as invertebrate biology. The authors depict GnRH fundamentals as a starting-point for examination of more recent data in this rapidly evolving field. Although ideally suited for the senior GnRH researcher, anyone with an early, basic interest in neuroendocrinology will also find this book highly approachable. Fully illustrated, indexed and annotated, this edition is an essential item in any modern personal or institutional GnRH library collection.

Now in a revised and expanded third edition, this case-based guide emphasizes the latest investigative advances in both imaging and molecular diagnostics and new treatment approaches for a wide variety of common and complex endocrine conditions. Utilizing unique clinical case histories, each main endocrine condition and disorder is curated by a senior Section Editor with an introduction to his or her area covering both physiology and pathophysiology. This introductory chapter is followed by a number of case histories written by invited experts and designed to cover the important relevant pathophysiology, following a consistent chapter format for ease of use, including bulleted objectives, case presentations, review of the diagnosis, lessons learned, and 3-5 multiple-choice review questions. Section headings include the pituitary, thyroid (overactivity, underactivity and cancer) and parathyroid, adrenal disorders, metabolic bone disease, type 2 diabetes, lipid abnormalities, obesity, and pregnancy. Topics new to this edition include PCOS, transgender medicine and the endocrine effects of viral infections. With a focus on covering major parts of the APDEM curriculum, A Case-Based Guide to Clinical Endocrinology remains a tremendous resource for junior and veteran clinicians alike.

Now in its second edition, the Oxford Textbook of Endocrinology and Diabetes is a fully comprehensive, evidence-based, and highly-valued reference work combining basic science with clinical guidance, and providing first rate advice on diagnosis and treatment.

A panel of leading experts integrate the latest findings from basic and clinical science to create a comprehensive treatment of the processes by which the brain acts as an endocrine organ, not only to control hormonal functions, but also to maintain homeostasis and regulate behavior. The authors-recognized both as leaders in their fields and as skilled teachers-provide systematic coverage of the analytical, anatomical, functional, clinical, and pathological aspects of neuroendocrinology. Topics range from the interactions between the nervous and endocrine systems to the regulation of reproduction, development, metabolism, fluid balance, and biological rhythms. Neuroendocrinology in Physiology and Medicine offers an unprecedented marriage of clinical and basic knowledge that has been missing from classical neuroscience, endocrinology, and physiology texts. It will teach today's medical students and serve researchers as a valuable reference to this rapidly growing field.

Groundbreaking, comprehensive, and developed by a panel of leading international experts in the field, Textbook of Assisted Reproduction provides a multidisciplinary overview of the diagnosis and management of infertility, which affects 15% of all couples around the world. The book aims to cover all aspects of assisted reproduction. Particular attention is given to topics such as the assessment of infertile couples; assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) including ovulation induction, intra uterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (clinical and laboratory aspects); reproductive genetics; and obstetric and perinatal outcomes.

This book is designed as an introductory text in neuroendocrinology; the study of the interaction between the brain and endocrine system and the influence of this on behaviour. The endocrine glands, pituitary gland and hypothalamus and their interactions and hormones are discussed. The action of steroid and thyroid hormone receptors and the regulation of target cell response to hormones is examined. The function of neuropeptides is discussed with respect to the neuroendocrine system and behaviour. The neuroimmune system and lymphokines are described and the interaction between the neuroendocrine and neuroimmune systems discussed. Finally, methods for studying hormonal influences on behaviour are outlined. Each chapter has review and essay questions designed for advanced students and honours or graduate students with a background in neuroscience, respectively.