An overview of the supergene family made up of those nuclear hormone receptors which recognize thyroid and steroid hormones, vitamen D and retinoic acid and which are characterized by their ability to bind both ligands and the genes which respond to them.

The first of its kind, this reference gives a comprehensive but concise introduction to epigenetics before covering the many interactions between hormone regulation and epigenetics at all levels. The contents are very well structured with no overlaps between chapters, and each one features supplementary material for use in presentations. Throughout, major emphasis is placed on pathological conditions, aiming at the many physiologists and developmental biologists who are familiar with the importance and mechanisms of hormone regulation but have a limited background in epigenetics.

For anyone who treats postmenopausal women, this latest edition of Rogerio Lobo's classic work combines the best from two well-known references: Menopause, and the second edition of Treatment of the Postmenopausal Woman. By adding significant discussions of the basic science behind menopause, it is possible to objectively assess the clinical value and limitations of current approaches to treatment and provide a basis and rationale for strategies that will result in better individualized and specialized care. Not only does the third edition discuss diagnosis and treatment of menopause but it covers biological, anatomical, physiological, pathobiological, and pharmacological aspects as well bringing together, in one source, all of the information needed to understand and treat postmenopausal conditions. Over 50% new material representing the vast amount of information available since the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) clinical trials were completed making this the most up-to-date reference on postmenopausal women Includes several new sections on comparisons between clinical trials and observational data, urology, and pelvic support Each section is preceded by a preface to put the area into context with many chapters having suggested treatment regimens

The first demonstration of the existence of a vitamin and the full recognition of this fact are often attributed to the work of McCollum, who found that a sub stance in butterfat and cod-liver oil was necessary for growth and health of ani mals fed purified diets. It became obvious that an organic substance present in microconcentrations was vital to growth and reproduction of animals. Following the coining of the word vitamine by Funk, McCollum named this fat-soluble sub stance vitamin A. We can, therefore, state that vitamin A was certainly one of the first known vitamins, yet its function and the function of the other fat-soluble vitamins had remained largely unknown until recent years. However, there has been an explosion of investigation and new information in this field, which had remained quiescent for at least two or three decades. It is now obvious that the fat-soluble vitamins function quite differently from their water-soluble counter parts. We have learned that vitamin D functions by virtue of its being converted in the kidney to a hormone that functions to regulate calcium and phosphorus metabolism. This new endocrine system is in the process of being elucidated in detail, and in addition, the medical use of these hormonal forms of vitamin D in the treatment of a variety of metabolic bone diseases has excited the medical com munity.

Molecular Basis of Thyroid Hormone Action focuses on the actions of thyroid hormones in eukaryotic cells. This book discusses the profound effects of thyroid hormones on the growth, development, and metabolism of practically all tissues of higher organisms. Organized into 15 chapters, this volume starts with an overview of the kinetic interrelationships of hormone bound to specific receptors and hormone associated with other tissue and plasma pools in living animals. This book then discusses the thyroid hormone receptor, a chromatin-associated protein that appears to mediate the actions of the ...