Neural Regulation in the Vertebrate Endocrine System
The objective of this volume is to provide recent information on
neural regulation in the endocrine system in vertebrates. Classical
studies have revealed that certain neurons synthesize and release
chemical messengers into the blood vascular system. These neurons
are endocrine devices that link the brain with the endocrine glands
and other target organs. In vertebrates the hypothalamus is the
seat of chemical coordination and integration of environmental and
hormonal cues to modulate function of the pituitary, and,
consequently, the functions of other endocrine glands. Information
generated during the past few decades has resulted in profound
alterations in the conceptual fabric of endocrinology. From the
wealth of information that emerged on neuropeptides of the central
nervous system, and connectivities of various brain centers, it has
become clear that several extra-hypothalamic sites are also
involved in regulation of hypophysial hormones. This volume is
divided into five sections: brain regulation of pituitary, brain
GnRH and regulation of pituitary in fish, brain control of growth
hormone in fish and birds, brain regulation in mammalian
luteinizing hormone, and neural control of other endocrines and the
immune system. It is hoped that this volume will prove useful to
researchers, teachers, and students involved in research and
teaching in neuroendocrinology and comparative endocrinology.
1. The Median Eminence: A Mediator in the Regulation of the Pituitary by Brain; H. Kobayashi, et al. 2. Hypophysiotropic Neurons in the Brain of Teleosts; P.D. Prasada Rao. 3. Functional Autonomy of the Adenohypophysis; D.R. Naik. 4. Brain Regulation of Growth Hormone Secretion and Food Intake in Fish; R.E. Peter, J.P. Chang. 5. GHRH: A Growth Hormone-Releasing Factor in Birds? S. Harvey. 6. Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neuronal Systems in the Teleostean Brain and Functional Significance; K. Okuzawa, M. Kobayashi. 7. Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone as a Paracrine Regulator of Ovarian Function; H.R. Habibi. 8. Role of Central Monoamines in Regulation of Gonadotropin II Secretion: Catfish Model; K.P. Joy. 9. Opioidergic Regulation of Luteinizing Hormone Secretion and Gonadal Steroidogenesis in Male Rat; R.N. Saxena, P.A. Kant. 10. Photoperiodic Control of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Secretion in Seasonally Breeding Birds; A. Dawson. 11. Changes in the Expression of Avian Central Steroid Receptors with Respect to the Breeding Cycle; J.A. Clark, et al. 12. Neural Elements in Pineal Organs of Vertebrates; T. Sato, et al. 13. Interactions between the Endocrine and Exocrine Pancreas: Effects of Islet Hormones, Secretagogues, and Nerve Stimulation; M.D. Yago, et al. 14. Neuroendocrine Regulation of Immune Function in Fish; Y.K. Narnaware, N.Y.S. Woo.
