ACTH Action in the Adrenal Cortex: From Molecular Biology to Pathophysiology
ACTH Action in the Adrenal Cortex: From Molecular Biology to Pathophysiology

Author: Nicole Gallo-Payet

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Published: 2017-07-27

Total Pages: 421

ISBN-13: 2889452328

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By stimulating adrenal gland and corticosteroid synthesis, the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) plays a central role in response to stress. In this Research Topic, a particular attention has been given to the recent developments on adrenocortical zonation; the growth-promoting activities of ACTH; the various steps involved in acute and chronic regulation of steroid secretion by ACTH, including the effect of ACTH on circadian rhythms of glucocorticoid secretion. The Research Topic also reviews progress and challenges surrounding the properties of ACTH binding to the MC2 receptor (MC2R), including the importance of melanocortin-2 receptor accessory protein (MRAP) in MC2R expression and function, the various intracellular signaling cascades, which involve not only protein kinase A, the key mediator of ACTH action, but also phosphatases, phosphodiesterases, ion channels and the cytoskeleton. The importance of the proteins involved in the cell detoxification is also considered, in particular the effect that ACTH has on protection against reactive oxygen species generated during steroidogenesis. The impact of the cellular microenvironment, including local production of ACTH is discussed, both as an important factor in the maintenance of homeostasis, but also in pathological situations, such as severe inflammation. Finally, the Research Topic reviews the role that the pituitary-adrenal axis may have in the development of metabolic disorders. In addition to mutations or alterations of expression of genes encoding components of the steroidogenesis and signaling pathways, chronic stress and sleep disturbance are both associated with hyperactivity of the adrenal gland. A resulting effect is increased glucocorticoid secretion inducing food intake and weight gain, which, in turn, leads to insulin and leptin resistance. These aspects are described in detail in this Research Topic by key investigators in the field. Many of the aspects addressed in this Research Topic still represent a stimulus for future studies, their outcome aimed at providing evidence of the central position occupied by the adrenal cortex in many metabolic functions when its homeostasis is disrupted. An in-depth investigation of the mechanisms underlying these pathways will be invaluable in developing new therapeutic tools and strategies.

Genetic Steroid Disorders
Genetic Steroid Disorders

Author: Maria I. New

Publisher: Academic Press

Published: 2023-06-14

Total Pages: 470

ISBN-13: 0128214252

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Genetic Steroid Disorders, Second Edition targets adult and pediatric endocrinologists, clinical geneticists, genetic counselors, reproductive endocrinologists, neonatologists, urologists, and psychoendocrinologists. It is designed to assist these specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of steroid disorders. This revision includes a new chapter on "Gonadotropins, Obesity and Bone" and new research on non-invasive prenatal diagnosis with cell-free DNA. Chapters are thoroughly updated covering steroid disorders, the genetic bases for the disorder and case presentations, This definitive reference belongs in every medical library! Presents a comprehensive, translational look at all aspects of genetic steroid disorders in one reference work Provides a common language for endocrinologists, geneticists, molecular pathologists, and genetic counselors to discuss and diagnose genetic steroid disorders Saves clinicians and researchers time in quickly accessing the very latest details on genetic tests and diagnoses as opposed to searching through thousands of journal articles Highlights significant discoveries with clinical relevance, presenting insight into which medications to use based on the genetic makeup of a patient Teaches the best strategies and most effective use of genetic information in the patient counseling setting

Translocator Protein (TSPO)
Translocator Protein (TSPO)

Author: Giovanni Natile

Publisher: MDPI

Published: 2018-03-05

Total Pages: 177

ISBN-13: 3038427578

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This book is a printed edition of the Special Issue "Translocator Protein (TSPO)" that was published in IJMS

Principles of Endocrinology and Hormone Action
Principles of Endocrinology and Hormone Action

Author: Antonino Belfiore

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2018-02-08

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9783319446745

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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.

Sensing the Environment: Regulation of Local and Global Homeostasis by the Skin's Neuroendocrine System
Sensing the Environment: Regulation of Local and Global Homeostasis by the Skin's Neuroendocrine System

Author: Andrzej T. Slominski

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2012-06-02

Total Pages: 128

ISBN-13: 3642196837

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The skin, the body’s largest organ, is strategically located at the interface with the external environment where it detects, integrates and responds to a diverse range of stressors, including solar radiation. It has already been established that the skin is an important peripheral neuroendocrine-immune organ that is closely networked with central regulatory systems. These capabilities contribute to the maintenance of peripheral homeostasis. Specifically, epidermal and dermal cells produce and respond to classical stress neurotransmitters, neuropeptides and hormones, production which is stimulated by ultraviolet radiation (UVR), biological factors (infectious and non-infectious) and other physical and chemical agents. Examples of local biologically active products are cytokines, biogenic amines (catecholamines, histamine, serotonin and N-acetyl-serotonin), melatonin, acetylocholine, neuropeptides including pituitary (proopiomelanocortin-derived ACTH, b-endorphin or MSH peptides, thyroid stimulating hormone) and hypothalamic (corticotropin-releasing factor and related urocortins, thyroid-releasing hormone) hormones, as well as enkephalins and dynorphins, thyroid hormones, steroids (glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, sex hormones, 7-δ steroids), secosteroids, opioids and endocannabinoids. The production of these molecules is hierarchical, organized along the algorithms of classical neuroendocrine axes such as the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis (HPA), hypothalamic-thyroid axis (HPT), serotoninergic, melatoninergic, catecholaminergic, cholinergic, steroid/secosteroidogenic, opioid and endocannabinoid systems. Disruptions of these axes or of communication between them may lead to skin and/or systemic diseases. These local neuroendocrine networks also serve to limit the effect of noxious environmental agents to preserve local and consequently global homeostasis. Moreover, the skin-derived factors/systems can also activate cutaneous nerve endings to alert the brain to changes in the epidermal or dermal environments, or alternatively to activate other coordinating centers by direct (spinal cord) neurotransmission without brain involvement. Furthermore, rapid and reciprocal communications between epidermal and dermal and adnexal compartments are also mediated by neurotransmission including antidromic modes of conduction. Lastly, skin cells and the skin as an organ coordinate and/or regulate not only peripheral but also global homeostasis.

Adrenal Disorders
Adrenal Disorders

Author: Alice C. Levine

Publisher: Humana Press

Published: 2017-10-24

Total Pages: 340

ISBN-13: 3319624709

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This practical resource provides the latest evidence, management strategies and recommendations for the treatment of disorders of the adrenal glands, including related physiology, genetics and pharmacology. This book is divided into three thematic sections. The first covers adrenal physiology, presenting adrenal zonation and development, the regulation of steroidogenesis, and the pharmacology of glucocortisoids. Part two discusses the genetics and pathophysiology of a number of adrenal disorders, including autoimmune Addison’s disease, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, primary aldosteronism, adrenocortical tumors and hyperplasias, and pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas. The final section presents the latest diagnostic and management strategies for these disorders, addressing adrenal insufficiency, adrenal Cushing’s Syndrome and aldosteronism, among others. Over the past twenty years, our understanding of disorders of the adrenal glands has been altered and deepened. Providing a much-needed update to the literature, Adrenal Disorders: Physiology, Pathophysiology and Treatment will be an important resource for both academic and clinical endocrinologists working with the adrenal glands and managing patients with adrenal disorders.