Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 describes how FGF23 was initially identified as a bone-derived factor targeting the kidney. As such, sections in this comprehensive book cover exciting research that shows that different FGF23 effects require distinct signaling receptors and mediators that differ among target tissues, cover FGF23 initially identified as a bone-derived factor targeting the kidney, look at FGF23 as a regulator of phosphate metabolism and beyond, and cover research on novel concepts of FGF receptor signaling. Additional sections cover biochemistry, pharmacology and nephrology, making this book an ideal reference source on FGF23. Provides a comprehensive collection of chapters on the diversity of FGF23's actions Highlights truly translational topics, from molecular signaling to physiology and mechanism of disease, discussing cell culture and animal models to study FGF23 Describes FGF23’s potential in the clinical setting as a biomarker or even drug target Presents leaders in the field who cover a wide spectrum of research backgrounds and expertise, including clinical and basic scientists who specialize in diseases, endocrinology, genetics, protein biochemistry, cell biology and physiology

We present to our readers the proceedings of the Second International Workshop on Phosphate. A short account of the history of the effort led to the Phosphate Workshops is appro priate and can be of interest to the reader. The idea for Phosphate Workshops was born in the early days of November, 1974. One of us (S. G. M. ) suggested the thought to a group of scientists gathered for a luncheon in one of the attrac tive small restaurants in Weisbaden, Germany. The purpose of the workshop was to bring together interested scientists to discuss the newer developments and the recent advances in the field of phosphate metabolism and the other related minerals. An Organizing Committee made of Shaul G. Massry (USA), Louis V. Avioli (USA), Philippe Bordier (France), Herbert Fleisch (Switzerland), and Eduardo Slatopolsky (USA) was formed. The First Workshop was held in Paris during June 5-6, 1975 and was hosted by Dr. Philippe Bordier. Its proceeding was already published. The Second Workshop took place in Heidelberg during June 28-30, 1976 and was hosted by Dr. Eberhard Ritz. Both of these workshops were extremely successful scientific endeavors, and the need for them was demonstrated by the great interest they generated among the scientific community. The Or ganizing Committee, therefore, decided to continue with the tradi tion to hold additional Workshops annually or every other year.

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) have been recognized primarily as autocrine/paracrine factors that regulate embryonic development and organogenesis. However, recent studies have revealed that some FGFs function as endocrine factors and regulate various metabolic processes in adulthood. Such FGFs, collectively called endocrine FGFs, are comprised of three members (FGF15/19, FGF21, and FGF23: FGF15 is the mouse ortholog of human FGF19). These endocrine FGFs share a common structural feature that enables the endocrine mode of action at the expense of the affinity to FGF receptors. To restore the affinity to FGF receptors in their target organs, the endocrine FGFs have designated the Klotho family of transmembrane proteins as obligate co-receptors. By expressing Klothos in a tissue-specific manner, this unique co-receptor system also enables the endocrine FGFs to specify their target organs among many tissues that express FGF receptors.

This comprehensive book examines the complex interplay between endocrine and kidney disorders, and how this inter-relationship impacts patients with chronic kidney disease. Authored by experts in areas of endocrinology and nephrology, chapters cover a variety of topics, including diabetes, metabolic syndrome, thyroid dysfunction, gonadal disorders, dyslipidemia, mineral bone disorders, obesity, and pituitary disorders. These comorbidities are thoroughly examined and provide the clinician, researcher, and trainee with a greater understanding of the impact of endocrine disorders on kidney disease patients, the ability to identify persistent gaps in knowledge for future investigation, and move closer towards the goal of improving the health and survival of the chronic kidney disease population.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Clifford J. Rosen, M.D., Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine SENIOR ASSOCIATE EDITORS: Juliet E. Compston, M.D., FRCP, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, United Kingdom Jane B. Lian, Ph.D., University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts This comprehensive yet concise handbook is an indispensable reference for the many clinicians who see patients with disorders of bone formation, metabolic bone diseases, or disorders of stone formation. It is also a crucial tool for researchers, students, and all other professionals working in the bone field. In a format designed for quick reference, it provides complete information on the symptoms, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of all common and rare bone and mineral disorders. New in this edition: detailed coverage of osteonecrosis of the jaw, more in-depth coverage of cancer and bone including new approaches to pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment; new approaches to anabolic therapy of osteoporosis; the latest research on Vitamin D; expanded coverage of international topics; more on the genetics of bone mass; and newer imaging techniques for the skeleton. In addition, this edition features a free, online-only appendix of medicines used to treat bone disorders and their availability around the world.