Cheryl S. Watson University o/Texas Medical Branch Cellular steroid action has been thoroughly studied in the nuclear compartment. However, nuclear steroid receptor mechanisms have been unable to explain some of the rapid activities of steroids, partiCUlarly those which occur in a time frame of seconds to minutes [reviewed in (1;2)]. Based on these and other considerations, an alternative membrane-associated receptor form was long ago proposed to exist (3). Others interpret the location of the steroid receptors mediating these rapid effects as peri membrane or cytoplasmic. New experimental tools have been brought to bear on the topic of receptors for steroids which mediate non-genomic actions, and thus investigative activity and focus regarding this type of steroid receptor has recently increased significantly. However, there may be multiple answers to the question "how do steroids mediate rapid nongenomic effects?" Steroid actions initiated at the cell membrane can impinge on important phases in the lifespan of a cell: proliferation, migration, differentiation, and release of hormones or neurotransmitters functioning as signals to other cells.

This updated second edition of Diagnosis and Management of Ovarian Disorders provides thorough, yet succinct insight into the ever-changing realm of ovarian disorders. It presents a novel multidisciplinary approach to the subject as described by clinicians, surgeons, pathologists, basic scientists and related medical researchers. Topics covered include reproductive technology, early diagnosis of ovarian cancer, and management of menopause among others. The breadth of information provided by this book will appeal to clinicians and researchers involved in the study and treatment of ovarian disorders.KEY FEATURES* Includes updated information on early diagnosis of ovarian cancer* Reviews new diagnostic techniques for ovarian disorders* Discusses latest information on reproductive technology* Presents translational treatment linking laboratory research with clinical medicine

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.

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.

Understanding the nature of rapid (nongenomic) steroid signaling depends upon identifying the protein(s) which binds hormone at the cell periphery and mediates the initial signal transmission. This book juxtaposes identifications from different laboratories and collectively presents several possibilities: nuclear steroid receptors in nonnuclear locations, other known membrane receptors with additional steroid binding sites, enzymes, transporters, receptors for blood-borne steroid-binding proteins, and unique, previously undescribed proteins.

This book offers a comprehensive yet concise overview of immunoprofile of tumors and antibodies used in contemporary surgical pathology, and provides diagnostic algorithms for approaching tumor diagnostics. Immunohistochemistry has become the most important ancillary technique in diagnostic pathology in the last 20 years, and unlike most books on tumor diagnostics, this volume discusses in details immunohistochemical biomarkers, diagnostic approaches and their pitfalls, as well as the immunoprofile of common tumors throughout all systems of human body. With numerous color figures and detailed flowcharts, it appeals to all pathologists be they young residents in training who want a brief introduction to this technique, or specialists in need of a reliable and comprehensive reference resource in tumors diagnostics.

​This book describes the life cycle of a unique endocrine gland that is absolutely essential for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in all mammalian species. The corpus luteum is unique because it is formed and destroyed every (non-fertile) reproductive cycle. When fertilization occurs, the corpus luteum is rescued or maintained. The processes that control corpus luteum formation, demise (luteolysis), or maintenance are just beginning to be unraveled in recent years; they involve diverse cell types and mechanisms. Some of these processes resemble tumor development—angiogenesis, for instance—but interestingly enough, this resemblance is only up to a point. The corpus luteum uses mechanisms that allow its normal, physiological growth and disappearance. Pulling together key research on the corpus luteum, this volume is of interest to both reproductive endocrinologists and comparative physiologists, with clinical relevance spanning comparative animal studies to women's health.