This volume provides comprehensive coverage of the current knowledge of the physiology of the endocrine system and hormone synthesis and release, transport, and action at the molecular and cellular levels. It presents essential as well as in-depth information of value to both medical students and specialists in Endocrinology, Gynecology, Pediatrics, and Internal Medicine. Although it is well established that the endocrine system regulates essential functions involved in growth, reproduction, and homeostasis, it is increasingly being recognized that this complex regulatory system comprises not only hormones secreted by the classic endocrine glands but also hormones and regulatory factors produced by many organs, and involves extensive crosstalk with the neural and immune system. At the same time, our knowledge of the molecular basis of hormone action has greatly improved. Understanding this complexity of endocrine physiology is crucial to prevent endocrine disorders, to improve the sensitivity of our diagnostic tools, and to provide the rationale for pharmacological, immunological, or genetic interventions. It is such understanding that this book is designed to foster.

Title is also available as part of a set: Principles of Endocrinology and Hormone Action (978-3-319-45217-3)

The endocrine system.- Crosstalks between the endocrine, nervous and immune systems.- Hormone synthesis, secretion and transport.- Hormone receptors and signal transduction processes.- Mechanisms of control and termination of the hormonal action.- The classical endocrine system and endocrine glands.- The hypothalamus - pituitary axis.- The posterior pituitary.- The thyroid.- The parathyroids.- The adrenal glands.- The endocrine pancreas.- The testis.- The ovary.- Non-classical endocrine organs.- Hormone measurement and testing of endocrine function.- The endocrine regulation of energy and body weight.- The endocrine regulation of blood pressure.- The endocrine control of prenatal and neonatal growth.- Endocrinology of puberty.- The endocrine control of pregnancy.- Hormones and aging.- Principles of endocrine diseases.- Genetics and endocrine function.- Hormones and cancer.