MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'ENDOCR REV' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:08:55 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5605675&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22240241%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jamieson S, Fuller PJ Abstract Granulosa cell tumors of the ovary (GCT) comprise a distinct subset of ovarian cancers that account for approximately 5% of all ovarian malignancies. They are thought to arise from normal proliferating granulosa cells of the late preovulatory follicle and exhibit many morphological and biochemical features of these cells. GCT are distinct from other ovarian carcinomas in their hormonal activity; their ability to secrete estrogen, inhibin, and Müllerian inhibiting substance accounts for some of the clinical manifestations of the disease and also provides useful tumor markers for disease surveillance. Although considered to be of low malignant potential, GCT are commonly associated with slow, indolent disease progression, and frequent yet long... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5605675 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5605675 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5605674&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22240242%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Xu JM, Shi GP Abstract Mast cells are essential in allergic immune responses. Recent discoveries have revealed their direct participation in cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders. Although more sophisticated mechanisms are still unknown, data from animal studies suggest that mast cells act similarly to macrophages and other inflammatory cells and contribute to human diseases through cell-cell interactions and the release of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and proteases to induce inflammatory cell recruitment, cell apoptosis, angiogenesis, and matrix protein remodeling. Reduced cardiovascular complications and improved metabolic symptoms in animals receiving over-the-counter antiallergy medications that stabilize mast cells open another era of mast cell bio... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5605674 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5605674 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5605673&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22240243%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gupta N, Goel K, Shah P, Misra A Abstract Rapidly changing dietary practices and a sedentary lifestyle have led to increasing prevalence of childhood obesity (5-19 yr) in developing countries recently: 41.8% in Mexico, 22.1% in Brazil, 22.0% in India, and 19.3% in Argentina. Moreover, secular trends indicate increasing prevalence rates in these countries: 4.1 to 13.9% in Brazil during 1974-1997, 12.2 to 15.6% in Thailand during 1991-1993, and 9.8 to 11.7% in India during 2006-2009. Important determinants of childhood obesity include high socioeconomic status, residence in metropolitan cities, female gender, unawareness and false beliefs about nutrition, marketing by transnational food companies, increasing academic stress, and poor facilities for physical activity. Childho... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5605673 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5605673 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5605672&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22240244%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Townsend EA, Miller VM, Prakash YS Abstract Sex differences in the biology of different organ systems and the influence of sex hormones in modulating health and disease are increasingly relevant in clinical and research areas. Although work has focused on sex differences and sex hormones in cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neuronal systems, there is now increasing clinical evidence for sex differences in incidence, morbidity, and mortality of lung diseases including allergic diseases (such as asthma), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer, as well as pulmonary hypertension. Whether such differences are inherent and/or whether sex steroids play a role in modulating these differences is currently under investigation. The purpose of this r... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5605672 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5605672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5515318&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22160319%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 22160319 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5515318 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5515318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5283247&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21951347%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: O'Sullivan ES, Vegas A, Anderson DG, Weir GC Abstract The concept of using an immunoisolation device to facilitate the transplantation of islets without the need for immunosuppression has been around for more than 50 yr. Significant progress has been made in developing suitable materials that satisfy the need for biocompatibility, durability, and permselectivity. However, the search is ongoing for a device that allows sufficient oxygen transfer while maintaining a barrier to immune cells and preventing rejection of the transplanted tissue. Separating the islets from the rich blood supply in the native pancreas takes its toll. The immunoisolated islets commonly suffer from hypoxia and necrosis, which in turn triggers a host immune response. Efforts have been made to improve... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5283247 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5283247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5195405&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21880704%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rivkees SA, Mazzaferri EL, Verburg FA, Reiners C, Luster M, Breuer CK, Dinauer CA, Udelsman R Abstract Pediatric thyroid cancer is a rare disease with an excellent prognosis. Compared with adults, epithelial-derived differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), which includes papillary and follicular thyroid cancer, presents at more advanced stages in children and is associated with higher rates of recurrence.Because of its uncommon occurrence, randomized trials have not been applied to test best-care options in children. Even in adults that have a 10-fold or higher incidence of thyroid cancer than children, few prospective trials have been executed to compare treatment approaches. We recognize that treatment recommendations have changed over the past few decades and will continue ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5195405 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5195405 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5160150&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21862681%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bartolomucci A, Possenti R, Mahata SK, Fischer-Colbrie R, Loh YP, Salton SR Abstract The chromogranins, secretogranins, and additional related proteins that together comprise the granin family subserve essential roles in the regulated secretory pathway that is responsible for controlled delivery of peptides, hormones, neurotransmitters, and growth factors. Here we review the structure and function of granins and granin-derived peptides and expansive new genetic evidence, including recent single-nucleotide polymorphism mapping, genomic sequence comparisons, and analysis of transgenic and knockout mice, which together support an important and evolutionarily conserved role for these proteins in large dense-core vesicle biogenesis and regulated secretion. Recent data further i... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5160150 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5160150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5160149&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21862682%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fiorina P, Voltarelli J, Zavazava N Abstract Current approaches aiming to cure type 1 diabetes (T1D) have made a negligible number of patients insulin-independent. In this review, we revisit the role of stem cell (SC)-based applications in curing T1D. The optimal therapeutic approach for T1D should ideally preserve the remaining β-cells, restore β-cell function, and protect the replaced insulin-producing cells from autoimmunity. SCs possess immunological and regenerative properties that could be harnessed to improve the treatment of T1D; indeed, SCs may reestablish peripheral tolerance toward β-cells through reshaping of the immune response and inhibition of autoreactive T-cell function. Furthermore, SC-derived insulin-producing cells are capable of engrafting and rever... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5160149 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5160149 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108377&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21791567%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Boelen A, Kwakkel J, Fliers E Decreased serum thyroid hormone concentrations in severely ill patients were first reported in the 1970s, but the functional meaning of the observed changes in thyroid hormone levels, together known as nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS), remains enigmatic. Although the common view was that NTIS results in overall down-regulation of metabolism in order to save energy, recent work has shown a more complex picture. NTIS comprises marked variation in transcriptional and translational activity of genes involved in thyroid hormone metabolism, ranging from inhibition to activation, dependent on the organ or tissue studied. Illness-induced changes in each of these organs appear to be very different during acute or chronic inflammation, adding an additio... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108377 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5108377 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108376&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21791568%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lefèvre PL, Palin MF, Murphy BD The polyamines are ubiquitous polycationic compounds. Over the past 40 yr, investigation has shown that some of these, namely spermine, spermidine, and putrescine, are essential to male and female reproductive processes and to embryo/fetal development. Indeed, their absence is characterized by infertility and arrest in embryogenesis. Mammals synthesize polyamines de novo from amino acids or import these compounds from the diet. Information collected recently has shown that polyamines are essential regulators of cell growth and gene expression, and they have been implicated in both mitosis and meiosis. In male reproduction, polyamine expression correlates with stages of spermatogenesis, and polyamines appear to function in promoting sperm motili... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108376 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5108376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5012096&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21700723%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Brezar V, Carel JC, Boitard C, Mallone R Insulin is not only the hormone produced by pancreatic β-cells but also a key target antigen of the autoimmune islet destruction leading to type 1 diabetes. Despite cultural biases between the fields of endocrinology and immunology, these two facets should not be regarded separately, but rather harmonized in a unifying picture of diabetes pathogenesis. There is increasing evidence suggesting that metabolic factors (β-cell dysfunction, insulin resistance) and immunological components (inflammation and β-cell-directed adaptive immune responses) may synergize toward islet destruction, with insulin standing at the crossroad of these pathways. This concept further calls for a revision of the classical dichotomy between type 1 and type 2 d... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5012096 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5012096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4969084&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21680538%26dopt%3DAbstract This article will provide an overview of the current and emerging knowledge on ER PTM, with a particular focus on their deregulation in breast cancer. We also discuss their clinical relevance and the functional relationship between PTM. A thorough understanding of the complete picture of these modifications in ER carcinogenesis might not only open new avenues for identifying new markers for prognosis or prediction of response to endocrine therapy but also could promote the development of novel therapeutic strategies. PMID: 21680538 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4969084 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4969084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4922330&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21642230%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Park J, Euhus DM, Scherer PE The past few years have provided substantial evidence for the vital role of the local tumor microenvironment for various aspects of tumor progression. With obesity and its pathophysiological sequelae still on the rise, the adipocyte is increasingly moving center stage in the context of tumor stroma-related studies. To date, we have limited insight into how the systemic metabolic changes associated with obesity and the concomitant modification of the paracrine and endocrine panel of stromal adipocyte-derived secretory products ("adipokines") influence the incidence and progression of obesity-related cancers. Here, we discuss the role of adipocyte dysfunction associated with obesity and its potential impact on cancer biology. PMID: 21642230 [PubM... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4922330 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4922330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4922331&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21622487%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Saldanha CJ, Remage-Healey L, Schlinger BA Sex steroids have long been recognized for their dramatic impact on brain and behavior, including rapid modulation of membrane excitability. It is a widely held perception that these molecules are largely derived from peripheral sources and lack the spatial and temporal specificity ascribed to classical neuromodulatory systems. Neuromodulatory systems, in contrast, are defined by their regulated neuronal presynaptic secretion and by their functional modulation of perisynaptic events. Here we provide evidence for regulated presynaptic estrogen synthesis and functional postsynaptic actions. These results meet all the criteria for a neuromodulatory system and shift our perception of estrogens from that of peripheral signals exclusively t... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4922331 Wed, 25 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4922331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4876542&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21606218%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Abdul-Ghani MA, Norton L, Defronzo RA Hyperglycemia plays an important role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus, i.e., glucotoxicity, and it also is the major risk factor for microvascular complications. Thus, effective glycemic control will not only reduce the incidence of microvascular complications but also correct some of the metabolic abnormalities that contribute to the progression of the disease. Achieving durable tight glycemic control is challenging because of progressive β-cell failure and is hampered by increased frequency of side effects, e.g., hypoglycemia and weight gain. Most recently, inhibitors of the renal sodium-glucose cotransporter have been developed to produce glucosuria and reduce the plasma glucose concentration. These oral antidiabetic ag... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4876542 Sun, 22 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4876542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4823524&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21536711%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Semple RK, Savage DB, Cochran EK, Gorden P, O'Rahilly S Insulin resistance is among the most prevalent endocrine derangements in the world, and it is closely associated with major diseases of global reach including diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and ovulatory dysfunction. It is most commonly found in those with obesity but may also occur in an unusually severe form in rare patients with monogenic defects. Such patients may loosely be grouped into those with primary disorders of insulin signaling and those with defects in adipose tissue development or function (lipodystrophy). The severe insulin resistance of both subgroups puts patients at risk of accelerated complications and poses severe challenges in clinical management. However, the c... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4823524 Sun, 01 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4823524 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4768574&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21525302%26dopt%3DAbstract This article discusses the former category. The field of GHI due to mutations affecting GH action has evolved considerably since the original description of the extreme phenotype related to homozygous GH receptor (GHR) mutations over 40 yr ago. A continuum of genetic, phenotypic, and biochemical abnormalities can be defined associated with clinically relevant defects in linear growth. The role and mechanisms of the GH-IGF-I axis in normal human growth is discussed, followed by descriptions of mutations in GHR, STAT5B, PTPN11, IGF1, IGFALS, IGF1R, and GH1 defects causing bioinactive GH or anti-GH antibodies. These defects are associated with a range of genetic, clinical, and hormonal characteristics. Genetic abnormalities causing growth failure that is less severe than the extreme phenotype... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4768574 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4768574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4768575&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21493869%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Castinetti F, Davis SW, Brue T, Camper SA Stem cells have been identified in organs with both low and high cell turnover rates. They are characterized by the expression of key marker genes for undifferentiated cells, the ability to self-renew, and the ability to regenerate tissue after cell loss. Several recent reports present evidence for the presence of pituitary stem cells. Here we offer a critical review of the field and suggest additional studies that could resolve points of debate. Recent reports have relied on different markers, including SOX2, nestin, GFRa2, and SCA1, to identify pituitary stem cells and progenitors. Future studies will be needed to resolve the relationships between cells expressing these markers. Members of the Sox family of transcription factors are ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4768575 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4768575 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4663663&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21441345%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lui JC, Baron J Recent studies have begun to provide insight into a long-standing mystery in biology-why body growth in animals is rapid in early life but then progressively slows, thus imposing a limit on adult body size. This growth deceleration in mammals is caused by potent suppression of cell proliferation in multiple tissues and is driven primarily by local, rather than systemic, mechanisms. Recent evidence suggests that this progressive decline in proliferation results from a genetic program that occurs in multiple organs and involves the down-regulation of a large set of growth-promoting genes. This program does not appear to be driven simply by time, but rather depends on growth itself, suggesting that the limit on adult body size is imposed by a negative feedback loo... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4663663 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4663663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4484359&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21300818%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ridgway EC PMID: 21300818 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4484359 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4484359 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4417392&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21257780%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lin FJ, Qin J, Tang K, Tsai SY, Tsai MJ Chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter transcription factors (COUP-TFs) belong to the steroid/thyroid hormone receptor superfamily. Cloning of their cDNAs demonstrated the existence of two distinct but related genes: COUP-TFI (EAR-3, NR2F1) and COUP-TFII (ARP-1, NR2F2). They are referred to as orphan receptors because ligands for COUP-TFs have yet to be identified. Since 1998, extensive studies have demonstrated their physiological importance in cell-fate specification, organogenesis, angiogenesis, and metabolism, as well as a variety of diseases. In this article, we will comprehensively review the biological functions of COUP-TFII and its underlying mechanism in various developmental processes and diseases. In addition, we will briefly sum... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4417392 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4417392 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4285540&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21173384%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zamani N, Brown CW Members of the TGF-β superfamily regulate many aspects of development, including adipogenesis. Studies in cells and animal models have characterized the effects of superfamily signaling on adipocyte development, adiposity, and energy expenditure. Although bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 4 is generally considered a protein that promotes the differentiation of white adipocytes, BMP7 has emerged as a selective regulator of brown adipogenesis. Conversely, TGF-β and activin A inhibit adipocyte development, a process augmented in TGF-β-treated cells by Smads 6 and 7, negative regulators of canonical TGF-β signaling. Other superfamily members have mixed effects on adipogenesis depending on cell culture conditions, the timing of expression, and the cell type, a... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4285540 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4285540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4224350&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21123740%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: List EO, Sackmann-Sala L, Berryman DE, Funk K, Kelder B, Gosney ES, Okada S, Ding J, Cruz-Topete D, Kopchick JJ Disruption of the GH receptor (GHR) gene eliminates GH-induced intracellular signaling and, thus, its biological actions. Therefore, the GHR gene disrupted mouse (GHR-/-) has been and is a valuable tool for helping to define various parameters of GH physiology. Since its creation in 1995, this mouse strain has been used by our laboratory and others for numerous studies ranging from growth to aging. Some of the most notable discoveries are their extreme insulin sensitivity in the presence of obesity. Also, the animals have an extended lifespan, which has generated a large number of investigations into the roles of GH and IGF-I in the aging process. This review summari... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4224350 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4224350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4224333&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21123741%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Colao A, Auriemma RS, Lombardi G, Pivonello R Somatostatin analogs (SA) are widely used in acromegaly, either as first-line or adjuvant treatment after surgery. First-line treatment with these drugs is generally used in the patients with macroadenomas or in those with clinical conditions so severe as to prevent unsafe reactions during anesthesia. Generally, the response to SA takes into account both control of GH and IGF-I excess, with consequent improvement of clinical symptoms directly related to GH and IGF-I excess, and tumor shrinkage. This latter effect is more prominent in the patients treated first-line and bearing large macroadenomas, but it is also observed in patients with microadenomas, even with little clinical implication. Predictors of response are patients' gend... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4224333 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4224333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4141102&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21051590%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Miller WL, Auchus RJ Steroidogenesis entails processes by which cholesterol is converted to biologically active steroid hormones. Whereas most endocrine texts discuss adrenal, ovarian, testicular, placental, and other steroidogenic processes in a gland-specific fashion, steroidogenesis is better understood as a single process that is repeated in each gland with cell-type-specific variations on a single theme. Thus, understanding steroidogenesis is rooted in an understanding of the biochemistry of the various steroidogenic enzymes and cofactors and the genes that encode them. The first and rate-limiting step in steroidogenesis is the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone by a single enzyme, P450scc (CYP11A1), but this enzymatically complex step is subject to multiple regula... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4141102 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4141102 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4141101&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21051591%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ishimoto H, Jaffe RB Continuous efforts have been devoted to unraveling the biophysiology and development of the human fetal adrenal cortex, which is structurally and functionally unique from other species. It plays a pivotal role, mainly through steroidogenesis, in the regulation of intrauterine homeostasis and in fetal development and maturation. The steroidogenic activity is characterized by early transient cortisol biosynthesis, followed by its suppressed synthesis until late gestation, and extensive production of dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulfate, precursors of placental estrogen, during most of gestation. The gland rapidly grows through processes including cell proliferation and angiogenesis at the gland periphery, cellular migration, hypertrophy, and apoptosis. Rec... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4141101 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4141101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4141100&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21051592%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Remmers F, Delemarre-van de Waal HA Developmental programming is an important physiological process that allows different phenotypes to originate from a single genotype. Through plasticity in early life, the developing organism can adopt a phenotype (within the limits of its genetic background) that is best suited to its expected environment. In humans, together with the relative irreversibility of the phenomenon, the low predictive value of the fetal environment for later conditions in affluent countries makes it a potential contributor to the obesity epidemic of recent decades. Here, we review the current evidence for developmental programming of energy balance. For a proper understanding of the subject, knowledge about energy balance is indispensable. Therefore, we first pr... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4141100 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4141100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4141103&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21037178%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Martin C, Balasubramanian R, Dwyer AA, Au MG, Sidis Y, Kaiser UB, Seminara SB, Pitteloud N, Zhou QY, Crowley WF A widely dispersed network of hypothalamic GnRH neurons controls the reproductive axis in mammals. Genetic investigation of the human disease model of isolated GnRH deficiency has revealed several key genes crucial for GnRH neuronal ontogeny and GnRH secretion. Among these genes, prokineticin 2 (PROK2), and PROK2 receptor (PROKR2) have recently emerged as critical regulators of reproduction in both mice and humans. Both prok2- and prokr2-deficient mice recapitulate the human Kallmann syndrome phenotype. Additionally, PROK2 and PROKR2 mutations are seen in humans with Kallmann syndrome, thus implicating this pathway in GnRH neuronal migration. However, PROK2/PROKR2 mu... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4141103 Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4141103 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4109619&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20971919%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hochberg Z, Feil R, Constancia M, Fraga M, Junien C, Carel JC, Boileau P, Le Bouc Y, Deal CL, Lillycrop K, Scharfmann R, Sheppard A, Skinner M, Szyf M, Waterland RA, Waxman DJ, Whitelaw E, Ong K, Albertsson-Wikland K Plasticity in developmental programming has evolved in order to provide the best chances of survival and reproductive success to the organism under changing environments. Environmental conditions that are experienced in early life can profoundly influence human biology and long-term health. Developmental origins of health and disease and life-history transitions are purported to use placental, nutritional, and endocrine cues for setting long-term biological, mental, and behavioral strategies in response to local ecological and/or social conditions. The window of d... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4109619 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4109619 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4031119&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20880963%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Piehl S, Hoefig CS, Scanlan TS, Köhrle J Thyronamines (TAMs) are a newly identified class of endogenous signaling compounds. Their structure is identical to that of thyroid hormone and deiodinated thyroid hormone derivatives, except that TAMs do not possess a carboxylate group. Despite some initial publications dating back to the 1950s, TAMs did not develop into an independent area of research until 2004, when they were rediscovered as potential ligands to a class of G protein-coupled receptors called trace-amine associated receptors. Since this discovery, two representatives of TAMs, namely 3-iodothyronamine (3-T1AM) and thyronamine (T0AM), have been detected in vivo. Intraperitoneal or central injection of 3-T1AM or T0AM into mice, rats, or Djungarian hamsters caused variou... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4031119 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4031119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4001598&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20851921%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Henriksen K, Bollerslev J, Everts V, Karsdal MA Osteoclasts have traditionally been associated exclusively with catabolic functions that are a prerequisite for bone resorption. However, emerging data suggest that osteoclasts also carry out functions that are important for optimal bone formation and bone quality. Moreover, recent findings indicate that osteoclasts have different subtypes depending on their location, genotype, and possibly in response to drug intervention. The aim of the current review is to describe the subtypes of osteoclasts in four different settings: 1) physiological, in relation to turnover of different bone types; 2) pathological, as exemplified by monogenomic disorders; 3) pathological, as identified by different disorders; and 4) in drug-induced situati... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4001598 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4001598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3903909&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20729338%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Magno AL, Ward BK, Ratajczak T Compelling evidence of a cell surface receptor sensitive to extracellular calcium was observed as early as the 1980s and was finally realized in 1993 when the calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) was cloned from bovine parathyroid tissue. Initial studies relating to the CaR focused on its key role in extracellular calcium homeostasis, but as the amount of information about the receptor grew it became evident that it was involved in many biological processes unrelated to calcium homeostasis. The CaR responds to a diverse array of stimuli extending well beyond that merely of calcium, and these stimuli can lead to the initiation of a wide variety of intracellular signaling pathways that in turn are able to regulate a diverse range of biological processes.... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3903909 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3903909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3787358&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20650859%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stojilkovic SS, Tabak J, Bertram R Endocrine pituitary cells are neuronlike; they express numerous voltage-gated sodium, calcium, potassium, and chloride channels and fire action potentials spontaneously, accompanied by a rise in intracellular calcium. In some cells, spontaneous electrical activity is sufficient to drive the intracellular calcium concentration above the threshold for stimulus-secretion and stimulus-transcription coupling. In others, the function of these action potentials is to maintain the cells in a responsive state with cytosolic calcium near, but below, the threshold level. Some pituitary cells also express gap junction channels, which could be used for intercellular Ca(2+) signaling in these cells. Endocrine cells also express extracellular ligand-gated i... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3787358 Tue, 20 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3787358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3787357&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20650860%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Basciani S, Mariani S, Spera G, Gnessi L Normal development and function of the testis are controlled by endocrine and paracrine signaling pathways. Platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs) are growth factors that mediate epithelial-mesenchymal interactions in various tissues during normal and abnormal processes such as embryo development, wound healing, tissue fibrosis, vascular disorders, and cancer. PDGFs and their receptors (PDGFRs) have emerged as key players in the regulation of embryonic and postnatal development of the male gonad. Cells that express PDGFs and PDGFRs are found in the testis of mammals, birds, and reptiles, and their distribution, regulation, and function vary across species. Testicular PDGFs and PDGFRs appear after the process of sex determination in ani... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3787357 Tue, 20 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3787357 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3787356&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20650861%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sinnott B, Ron E, Schneider AB Radiation exposure of the thyroid at a young age is a recognized risk factor for the development of differentiated thyroid cancer lasting for four decades and probably for a lifetime after exposure. Medical radiation exposure, however, occurs frequently, including among the pediatric population, which is especially sensitive to the effects of radiation. In the past, the treatment of benign medical conditions with external radiation represented the most significant thyroid radiation exposures. Today, diagnostic medical radiation represents the largest source of man-made radiation exposure. Radiation exposure related to the use of computerized tomography is rising exponentially, particularly in the pediatric population. There is direct epidemiologi... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3787356 Tue, 20 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3787356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3768077&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20631004%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Petraglia F, Imperatore A, Challis JR The complex mechanisms controlling human parturition involves mother, fetus, and placenta, and stress is a key element activating a series of physiological adaptive responses. Preterm birth is a clinical syndrome that shares several characteristics with term birth. A major role for the neuroendocrine mechanisms has been proposed, and placenta/membranes are sources for neurohormones and peptides. Oxytocin (OT) is the neurohormone whose major target is uterine contractility and placenta represents a novel source that contributes to the mechanisms of parturition. The CRH/urocortin (Ucn) family is another important neuroendocrine pathway involved in term and preterm birth. The CRH/Ucn family consists of four ligands: CRH, Ucn, Ucn2, and Ucn3. ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3768077 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3768077 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3743959&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20605972%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ye L, Santarpia L, Gagel RF Activation of tyrosine kinase receptors (TKRs) and their related pathways has been associated with development of endocrine tumors. Compounds that target and inactivate the kinase function of these receptors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), are now being applied to the treatment of endocrine tumors. Recent clinical trials of TKIs in patients with advanced thyroid cancer, islet cell carcinoma, and carcinoid have shown promising preliminary results. Significant reductions in tumor size have been described in medullary and papillary thyroid carcinoma, although no complete responses have been reported. Case reports have described significant tumor volume reductions of malignant pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas. In addition, these compounds showed... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3743959 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3743959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3722578&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20592272%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Manco M, Putignani L, Bottazzo GF Compelling evidence supports the concepts that gut microbiota actively promotes weight gain and fat accumulation and sustains, indirectly, a condition of low-grade inflammation, thus enhancing the cardiovascular risk. Fewer Bacteroidetes and more Firmicutes seem to characterize the gut microbiota of obese people as compared with that of lean individuals. This difference translates into an increased efficiency of microbiota of obese individuals in harvesting energy from otherwise indigestible carbohydrates. Furthermore, the microbiota also seems able to favor fat accumulation. Indeed, studies performed in germ-free animals have demonstrated that conventionalization of sterile intestine with gut microbiota is associated with an enhanced expressi... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3722578 Tue, 29 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3722578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3696292&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20573783%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Krassas GE, Poppe K, Glinoer D Via its interaction in several pathways, normal thyroid function is important to maintain normal reproduction. In both genders, changes in SHBG and sex steroids are a consistent feature associated with hyper- and hypothyroidism and were already reported many years ago. Male reproduction is adversely affected by both thyrotoxicosis and hypothyroidism. Erectile abnormalities have been reported. Thyrotoxicosis induces abnormalities in sperm motility, whereas hypothyroidism is associated with abnormalities in sperm morphology; the latter normalize when euthyroidism is reached. In females, thyrotoxicosis and hypothyroidism can cause menstrual disturbances. Thyrotoxicosis is associated mainly with hypomenorrhea and polymenorrhea, whereas hypothyroidism... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3696292 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3696292 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3663541&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20534704%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jawerbaum A, White V The worldwide increase in the incidence of diabetes, the increase in type 2 diabetes in women at reproductive ages, and the cross-generation of the intrauterine programming of type 2 diabetes are the bases for the growing interest in the use of experimental diabetic models in order to gain insight into the mechanisms of induction of developmental alterations in maternal diabetes. In this scenario, experimental models that present the most common features of diabetes in pregnancy are highly required. Several important aspects of human diabetic pregnancies such as the increased rates of spontaneous abortions, malformations, fetoplacental impairments, and offspring diseases in later life can be approached by using the appropriate animal models. The purpose of... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3663541 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3663541 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3630396&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20519325%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mitrou P, Raptis SA, Dimitriadis G Hyperthyroidism leads to an enhanced demand for glucose, which is primarily provided by increased rates of hepatic glucose production due to increased gluconeogenesis (in the fasting state) and increased Cori cycle activity (in the late postprandial and fasting state). Adipose tissue lipolysis is increased in the fasting state, resulting in increased production of glycerol and nonesterified fatty acids. Under these conditions, increased glycerol generated by lipolysis and increased amino acids generated by proteolysis are used as substrates for gluconeogenesis. Increased nonesterified fatty acid levels are necessary to stimulate gluconeogenesis and provide substrate for oxidation in other tissues (such as muscle). In the postprandial period, ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3630396 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3630396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3592668&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20488986%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Robertson RP PMID: 20488986 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3592668 Wed, 19 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3592668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3523262&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20431112%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ralston SH, Uitterlinden AG Osteoporosis is a common disease with a strong genetic component characterized by reduced bone mass, defects in the microarchitecture of bone tissue, and an increased risk of fragility fractures. Twin and family studies have shown high heritability of bone mineral density (BMD) and other determinants of fracture risk such as ultrasound properties of bone, skeletal geometry, and bone turnover. Osteoporotic fractures also have a heritable component, but this reduces with age as environmental factors such as risk of falling come into play. Susceptibility to osteoporosis is governed by many different genetic variants and their interaction with environmental factors such as diet and exercise. Notable successes in identification of genes that regulate BMD... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3523262 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3523262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435635&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20357209%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Xu XH, Dong SS, Guo Y, Yang TL, Lei SF, Papasian CJ, Zhao M, Deng HW Osteoporosis is a complex human disease that results in increased susceptibility to fragility fractures. It can be phenotypically characterized using several traits, including bone mineral density, bone size, bone strength, and bone turnover markers. The identification of gene variants that contribute to osteoporosis phenotypes, or responses to therapy, can eventually help individualize the prognosis, treatment, and prevention of fractures and their adverse outcomes. Our previously published reviews have comprehensively summarized the progress of molecular genetic studies of gene identification for osteoporosis and have covered the data available to the end of September 2007. This review represents our contin... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435635 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3435635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3383551&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20237240%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Christian CA, Moenter SM Ovarian steroids normally exert homeostatic negative feedback on GnRH release. During sustained exposure to elevated estradiol in the late follicular phase of the reproductive cycle, however, the feedback action of estradiol switches to positive, inducing a surge of GnRH release from the brain, which signals the pituitary LH surge that triggers ovulation. In rodents, this switch appears dependent on a circadian signal that times the surge to a specific time of day (e.g., late afternoon in nocturnal species). Although the precise nature of this daily signal and the mechanism of the switch from negative to positive feedback have remained elusive, work in the past decade has provided much insight into the role of circadian/diurnal and estradiol-dependent ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3383551 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3383551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3323261&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20190196%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tao YX The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) was cloned in 1993 by degenerate PCR; however, its function was unknown. Subsequent studies suggest that the MC4R might be involved in regulating energy homeostasis. This hypothesis was confirmed in 1997 by a series of seminal studies in mice. In 1998, human genetic studies demonstrated that mutations in the MC4R gene can cause monogenic obesity. We now know that mutations in the MC4R are the most common monogenic form of obesity, with more than 150 distinct mutations reported thus far. This review will summarize the studies on the MC4R, from its cloning and tissue distribution to its physiological roles in regulating energy homeostasis, cachexia, cardiovascular function, glucose and lipid homeostasis, reproduction and sexual function,... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3323261 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3323261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3288578&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20164242%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Richards OC, Raines SM, Attie AD The pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes is intimately intertwined with the vasculature. Insulin must efficiently enter the bloodstream from pancreatic beta-cells, circulate throughout the body, and efficiently exit the bloodstream to reach target tissues and mediate its effects. Defects in the vasculature of pancreatic islets can lead to diabetic phenotypes. Similarly, insulin resistance is accompanied by defects in the vasculature of skeletal muscle, which ultimately reduce the ability of insulin and nutrients to reach myocytes. An underappreciated participant in these processes is the vascular pericyte. Pericytes, the smooth muscle-like cells lining the outsides of blood vessels throughout the body, have not been directly implicated in insulin se... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3288578 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3288578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3280627&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20156986%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Patti ME, Corvera S The pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is varied and complex. However, the association of DM with obesity and inactivity indicates an important, and potentially pathogenic, link between fuel and energy homeostasis and the emergence of metabolic disease. Given the central role for mitochondria in fuel utilization and energy production, disordered mitochondrial function at the cellular level can impact whole-body metabolic homeostasis. Thus, the hypothesis that defective or insufficient mitochondrial function might play a potentially pathogenic role in mediating risk of type 2 DM has emerged in recent years. Here, we summarize current literature on risk factors for diabetes pathogenesis, on the specific role(s) of mitochondria in tissues involve... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3280627 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3280627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3215046&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20103546%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lawrence MG, Lai J, Clements JA The 15 members of the kallikrein-related serine peptidase (KLK) family have diverse tissue-specific expression profiles and putative proteolytic functions. The kallikrein family is also emerging as a rich source of disease biomarkers with KLK3, commonly known as prostate-specific antigen, being the current serum biomarker for prostate cancer. The kallikrein locus is also notable because it is extraordinarily responsive to steroids and other hormones. Indeed, at least 14 functional hormone response elements have been identified in the kallikrein locus. A more comprehensive understanding of the transcriptional regulation of kallikreins may help the field make more informed hypotheses about the physiological functions of kallikreins and their effec... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3215046 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3215046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3198238&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20086217%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sherlock M, Ayuk J, Tomlinson JW, Toogood AA, Aragon-Alonso A, Sheppard MC, Bates AS, Stewart PM Pituitary disease is associated with increased mortality predominantly due to vascular disease. Control of cortisol secretion and GH hypersecretion (and cardiovascular risk factor reduction) is key in the reduction of mortality in patients with Cushing's disease and acromegaly, retrospectively. For patients with acromegaly, the role of IGF-I is less clear-cut. Confounding pituitary hormone deficiencies such as gonadotropins and particularly ACTH deficiency (with higher doses of hydrocortisone replacement) may have a detrimental effect on outcome in patients with pituitary disease. Pituitary radiotherapy is a further factor that has been associated with increased mortality (particul... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3198238 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3198238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149731&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20051526%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Manolagas SC Estrogen deficiency has been considered the seminal mechanism of osteoporosis in both women and men, but epidemiological evidence in humans and recent mechanistic studies in rodents indicate that aging and the associated increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the proximal culprits. ROS greatly influence the generation and survival of osteoclasts, osteoblasts, and osteocytes. Moreover, oxidative defense by the FoxO transcription factors is indispensable for skeletal homeostasis at any age. Loss of estrogens or androgens decreases defense against oxidative stress in bone, and this accounts for the increased bone resorption associated with the acute loss of these hormones. ROS-activated FoxOs in early mesenchymal progenitors also divert ss-catenin away from Wn... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149731 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3149731 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149730&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20051527%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cheng SY, Leonard JL, Davis PJ Cellular actions of thyroid hormone may be initiated within the cell nucleus, at the plasma membrane, in cytoplasm, and at the mitochondrion. Thyroid hormone nuclear receptors (TRs) mediate the biological activities of T3 via transcriptional regulation. Two TR genes, alpha and beta, encode four T3-binding receptor isoforms (alpha1, beta1, beta2, and beta3). The transcriptional activity of TRs is regulated at multiple levels. Besides being regulated by T3, transcriptional activity is regulated by the type of thyroid hormone response elements located on the promoters of T3 target genes, by the developmental- and tissue-dependent expression of TR isoforms, and by a host of nuclear coregulatory proteins. These nuclear coregulatory proteins modulate t... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149730 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3149730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3106553&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20019127%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gibbs RB The pros and cons of estrogen therapy for use in postmenopausal women continue to be a major topic of debate in women's health. Much of this debate focuses on the potential benefits vs. harm of estrogen therapy on the brain and the risks for cognitive impairment associated with aging and Alzheimer's disease. Many animal and human studies suggest that estrogens can have significant beneficial effects on brain aging and cognition and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's-related dementia; however, others disagree. Important discoveries have been made, and hypotheses have emerged that may explain some of the inconsistencies. This review focuses on the cholinergic hypothesis, specifically on evidence that beneficial effects of estrogens on brain aging and cognition are related t... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3106553 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3106553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3101306&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20007922%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Grant SF, Hakonarson H, Schwartz S The pathophysiology of latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is considered less understood than its much better characterized counterparts of type 1 and type 2 diabetes (T1D and T2D), where its clinical presentation exhibits some features of each of these two main diseases, earning it a reputation as being "type 1.5 diabetes". The etiology of LADA remains unknown, but a genetic component has been implicated from recent reports of T1D and T2D genes playing a role in its pathogenesis. One way to shed much needed light on the classification of LADA is to determine the discrete genetic factors conferring risk to the pathogenesis of this specific phenotype and to determine to what extent LADA shares genetic similarities with T1D and T2D. For... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3101306 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3101306 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3101307&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20007326%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Houtkooper RH, Cantó C, Wanders RJ, Auwerx J A century after the identification of a coenzymatic activity for NAD(+), NAD(+) metabolism has come into the spotlight again due to the potential therapeutic relevance of a set of enzymes whose activity is tightly regulated by the balance between the oxidized and reduced forms of this metabolite. In fact, the actions of NAD(+) have been extended from being an oxidoreductase cofactor for single enzymatic activities to acting as substrate for a wide range of proteins. These include NAD(+)-dependent protein deacetylases, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases, and transcription factors that affect a large array of cellular functions. Through these effects, NAD(+) provides a direct link between the cellular redox status and the control of si... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3101307 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3101307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3068081&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19966012%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Siegelaar SE, Holleman F, Hoekstra JB, Devries JH Overall lowering of glucose is of pivotal importance in the treatment of diabetes, with proven beneficial effects on microvascular and macrovascular outcomes. Still, patients with similar glycosylated hemoglobin levels and mean glucose values can have markedly different daily glucose excursions. The role of this glucose variability in pathophysiological pathways is the subject of debate. It is strongly related to oxidative stress in in vitro, animal, and human studies in an experimental setting. However, in real-life human studies including type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients, there is neither a reproducible relation with oxidative stress nor a correlation between short-term glucose variability and retinopathy, nephropathy, or ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3068081 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3068081 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2986671&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19903932%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hel Z, Stringer E, Mestecky J Worldwide, an increasing number of women use oral or injectable hormonal contraceptives. However, inadequate information is available to aid women and health care professionals in weighing the potential risks of hormonal contraceptive use in individuals living with HIV-1 or at high risk of infection. Numerous epidemiological studies and challenge studies in a rhesus macaque model suggest that progesterone-based contraceptives increase the risk of HIV-1 infection in humans and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection in macaques, accelerate disease progression, and increase viral shedding in the genital tract. However, because several other studies in humans have not observed any effect of exogenously administered progesterone on HIV-1 acquisi... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2986671 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2986671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2986670&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19903933%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vuong C, Van Uum SH, O'Dell LE, Lutfy K, Friedman TC Opioid abuse has increased in the last decade, primarily as a result of increased access to prescription opioids. Physicians are also increasingly administering opioid analgesics for noncancer chronic pain. Thus, knowledge of the long-term consequences of opioid use/abuse has important implications for fully evaluating the clinical usefulness of opioid medications. Many studies have examined the effect of opioids on the endocrine system; however, a systematic review of the endocrine actions of opioids in both humans and animals has, to our knowledge, not been published since 1984. Thus, we reviewed the literature on the effect of opioids on the endocrine system. We included both acute and chronic effects of opioids, with the... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2986670 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2986670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2970756&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19890090%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kowluru A Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from the islet beta-cell involves a sequence of metabolic events and an interplay between a wide range of signaling pathways leading to the generation of second messengers (e.g., cyclic nucleotides, adenine and guanine nucleotides, soluble lipid messengers) and mobilization of calcium ions. Consequent to the generation of necessary signals, the insulin-laden secretory granules are transported from distal sites to the plasma membrane for fusion and release of their cargo into the circulation. The secretory granule transport underlies precise changes in cytoskeletal architecture involving a well-coordinated cross-talk between various signaling proteins, including small molecular mass GTP-binding proteins (G proteins) and their respe... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2970756 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2970756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2970755&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19890091%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Beck IM, Vanden Berghe W, Vermeulen L, Yamamoto KR, Haegeman G, De Bosscher K Glucocorticoids (GCs) are steroidal ligands for the GC receptor (GR), which can function as a ligand-activated transcription factor. These steroidal ligands and derivatives thereof are the first line of treatment in a vast array of inflammatory diseases. However, due to the general surge of side effects associated with long-term use of GCs and the potential problem of GC resistance in some patients, the scientific world continues to search for a better understanding of the GC-mediated antiinflammatory mechanisms. The reversible phosphomodification of various mediators in the inflammatory process plays a key role in modulating and fine-tuning the sensitivity, longevity, and intensity of the inflammato... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2970755 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2970755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2970757&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19887492%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Scott HM, Mason JI, Sharpe RM Masculinization depends on adequate production of testosterone by the fetal testis within a specific "masculinization programming window." Disorders resulting from subtle deficiencies in this process are common in humans, and environmental exposures/lifestyle could contribute causally because common therapeutic and environmental compounds can affect steroidogenesis. This evidence derives mainly from rodent studies, but because there are major species differences in regulation of steroidogenesis in the fetal testis, this may not always be a guide to potential effects in the human. In addition to direct study of the effects of compounds on steroidogenesis, information also derives from study of masculinization disorders that result from mutations in... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2970757 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2970757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2939718&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19861693%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pagel-Langenickel I, Bao J, Pang L, Sack MN Multiple organs contribute to the development of peripheral insulin resistance, with the major contributors being skeletal muscle, liver, and adipose tissue. Because insulin resistance usually precedes the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by many years, understanding the pathophysiology of insulin resistance should enable development of therapeutic strategies to prevent disease progression. Some subjects with mitochondrial genomic variants/defects and a subset of lean individuals with hereditary predisposition to T2DM exhibit skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction early in the course of insulin resistance. In contrast, in the majority of subjects with T2DM the plurality of evidence implicates skeletal muscle mitochon... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2939718 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2939718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2931562&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19854863%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Froy O Obesity has become a serious public health problem and a major risk factor for the development of illnesses, such as insulin resistance and hypertension. Human homeostatic systems have adapted to daily changes in light and dark in a way that the body anticipates the sleep and activity periods. Mammals have developed an endogenous circadian clock located in the suprachiasmatic nuclei of the anterior hypothalamus that responds to the environmental light-dark cycle. Similar clocks have been found in peripheral tissues, such as the liver, intestine, and adipose tissue, regulating cellular and physiological functions. The circadian clock has been reported to regulate metabolism and energy homeostasis in the liver and other peripheral tissues. This is achieved by mediating th... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2931562 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2931562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2905936&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19837867%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kelberman D, Rizzoti K, Lovell-Badge R, Robinson IC, Dattani MT Normal hypothalamopituitary development is closely related to that of the forebrain and is dependent upon a complex genetic cascade of transcription factors and signaling molecules that may be either intrinsic or extrinsic to the developing Rathke's pouch. These factors dictate organ commitment, cell differentiation, and cell proliferation within the anterior pituitary. Abnormalities in these processes are associated with congenital hypopituitarism, a spectrum of disorders that includes syndromic disorders such as septo-optic dysplasia, combined pituitary hormone deficiencies, and isolated hormone deficiencies, of which the commonest is GH deficiency. The highly variable clinical phenotypes can now in part be expl... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2905936 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2905936 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2905935&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19837868%26dopt%3DAbstract Conclusions: This systematic review has allowed the demonstration of the way in which intrauterine exposure to various regimens of synthetic glucocorticoids affects various forms of hpa function. As such, it guides future studies in terms of which variables need to be focused on in order to further strengthen the understanding of such therapy, whilst continuing to profit from its clinical benefits. PMID: 19837868 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2905935 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2905935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2832816&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19776209%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Edson MA, Nagaraja AK, Matzuk MM Two major functions of the mammalian ovary are the production of germ cells (oocytes), which allow continuation of the species, and the generation of bioactive molecules, primarily steroids (mainly estrogens and progestins) and peptide growth factors, which are critical for ovarian function, regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, and development of secondary sex characteristics. The female germline is created during embryogenesis when the precursors of primordial germ cells differentiate from somatic lineages of the embryo and take a unique route to reach the urogenital ridge. This undifferentiated gonad will differentiate along a female pathway, and the newly formed oocytes will proliferate and subsequently enter meiosis. At th... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2832816 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2832816 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2825288&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19770291%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Oakley AE, Clifton DK, Steiner RA Kisspeptin (a product of the Kiss1 gene) and its receptor (GPR54 or Kiss1r) have emerged as key players in the regulation of reproduction. Mutations in humans or genetically targeted deletions in mice of either Kiss1 or Kiss1r cause profound hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Neurons that express Kiss1/kisspeptin are found in discrete nuclei in the hypothalamus, as well as other brain regions in many vertebrates, and their distribution, regulation, and function varies widely across species. Kisspeptin neurons directly innervate and stimulate GnRH neurons, which are the final common pathway through which the brain regulates reproduction. Kisspeptin neurons are sexually differentiated with respect to cell number and transcriptional activity in certa... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2825288 Sun, 20 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2825288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2801150&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19752219%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Belfiore A, Frasca F, Pandini G, Sciacca L, Vigneri R In mammals, the insulin receptor (IR) gene has acquired an additional exon, exon 11. This exon may be skipped in a developmental and tissue-specific manner. The IR, therefore, occurs in two isoforms (exon 11 minus IR-A and exon 11 plus IR-B). The most relevant functional difference between these two isoforms is the high affinity of IR-A for IGF-II. IR-A is predominantly expressed during prenatal life. It enhances the effects of IGF-II during embryogenesis and fetal development. It is also significantly expressed in adult tissues, especially in the brain. Conversely, IR-B is predominantly expressed in adult, well-differentiated tissues, including the liver, where it enhances the metabolic effects of insulin. Dysregulation of... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2801150 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2801150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2801151&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19749172%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Staiger H, Machicao F, Fritsche A, Häring HU Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disease that is caused by insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction. Furthermore, type 2 diabetes has an evident genetic component and represents a polygenic disease. During the last decade, considerable progress was made in the identification of type 2 diabetes risk genes. This was crucially influenced by the development of affordable high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays that prompted several successful genome-wide association scans in large case-control cohorts. Subsequent to the identification of type 2 diabetes risk SNPs, cohorts thoroughly phenotyped for prediabetic traits with elaborate in vivo methods allowed an initial characterization of the pathome... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2801151 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2801151 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2692776&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19663075%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 19663075 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2692776 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2692776 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2692775&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19663077%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 19663077 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2692775 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2692775 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2593365&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589948%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ohlsson C, Mohan S, Sjögren K, Tivesten A, Isgaard J, Isaksson O, Jansson JO, Svensson J Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) is expressed in virtually every tissue of the body but with much higher expression in the liver than in any other tissue. Studies using mice with liver-specific IGF-I knock out (KO) have demonstrated that liver-derived IGF-I, constituting a major part of circulating IGF-I, is an important endocrine factor involved in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. Detailed studies comparing the impact of liver-derived IGF-I and local bone-derived IGF-I demonstrate that both sources of IGF-I can stimulate longitudinal bone growth. We propose here that liver-derived circulating IGF-I and local bone-derived IGF-I to some extent have overlapping... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2593365 Wed, 08 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2593365 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2593364&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589949%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Broekmans FJ, Soules MR, Fauser BC The cessation of menstrual cycles at a mean age of 50 and increasing longevity imply that women spend almost half of their lives in a postmenopausal status. Menopause can be seen as a fulcrum for several health risks, like infertility and several estrogen dependent disease states. It is the final step in the process referred to as ovarian ageing. The mechanisms behind this ageing process are not well understood. The present review puts effort in describing the various phases of ovarian ageing and the markers that express the ovarian changes over time when clinical signs are still absent. The endocrine changes that occur in paralellel to changes in cycle regularity are summarised, as they underline the key changes in ovarian function. The timi... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2593364 Wed, 08 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2593364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2593363&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19589950%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Adhikari D, Liu K In humans and other mammalian species, the pool of resting primordial follicles serves as the source of developing follicles and fertilizable ova for the entire length of female reproductive life. One question that has intrigued biologists is the mechanisms controlling the activation of dormant primordial follicles. Studies from previous decades have laid a solid, but yet incomplete, foundation. In recent years, molecular mechanisms underlying follicular activation have become more evident, mainly through the use of genetically-modified mouse models. As hypothesized in the 1990s, the pool of primordial follicles is now known to be maintained in a dormant state by various forms of inhibitory machinery, which are provided by several inhibitory signals and molec... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2593363 Wed, 08 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2593363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533151&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19389994%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Santen RJ, Brodie H, Simpson ER, Siiteri PK, Brodie A Aromatase is the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of androgens to estrogens. Initial studies of its enzymatic activity and function took place in an environment focused on estrogen as a component of the birth control pill. At an early stage, investigators recognized that inhibition of this enzyme could have major practical applications for treatment of hormone-dependent breast cancer, alterations of ovarian and endometrial function, and treatment of benign disorders such as gynecomastia. Two general approaches ultimately led to the development of potent and selective aromatase inhibitors. One targeted the enzyme using analogs of natural steroidal substrates to work out the relationships between structure and function. T... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533151 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533151 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533144&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19460960%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zimmermann MB Iodine deficiency has multiple adverse effects in humans, termed iodine deficiency disorders, due to inadequate thyroid hormone production. Globally, it is estimated that 2 billion individuals have an insufficient iodine intake, and South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa are particularly affected. However, about 50% of Europe remains mildly iodine deficient, and iodine intakes in other industrialized countries, including the United States and Australia, have fallen in recent years. Iodine deficiency during pregnancy and infancy may impair growth and neurodevelopment of the offspring and increase infant mortality. Deficiency during childhood reduces somatic growth and cognitive and motor function. Assessment methods include urinary iodine concentration, goiter, newborn... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533144 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533140&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19502515%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Diamanti-Kandarakis E, Bourguignon JP, Giudice LC, Hauser R, Prins GS, Soto AM, Zoeller RT, Gore AC There is growing interest in the possible health threat posed by endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which are substances in our environment, food, and consumer products that interfere with hormone biosynthesis, metabolism, or action resulting in a deviation from normal homeostatic control or reproduction. In this first Scientific Statement of The Endocrine Society, we present the evidence that endocrine disruptors have effects on male and female reproduction, breast development and cancer, prostate cancer, neuroendocrinology, thyroid, metabolism and obesity, and cardiovascular endocrinology. Results from animal models, human clinical observations, and epidemiological studies... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533140 Sun, 31 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533142&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19477944%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jogie-Brahim S, Feldman D, Oh Y The IGF system plays critical roles in somatic growth in an endocrine fashion (somatomedin hypothesis) as well as proliferation and differentiation of normal and malignant cells in a paracrine/autocrine fashion. IGFBP-3 is known to modulate the actions of IGFs in circulation as well as the immediate extracellular environment. Interestingly, apart from the ability to inhibit or enhance IGF actions, IGFBP-3 also exhibits very clear, distinct biologic effects independent of the IGF/IGF-I receptor axis. Over the past decade it has become widely appreciated that IGF/IGF-IR-independent actions of IGFBP-3 (antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects) contribute to improving the pathophysiology of a variety of human diseases such as cancer, diabetes and... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533142 Wed, 27 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533155&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19366753%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nicholas CR, Chavez SL, Baker VL, Reijo Pera RA Female reproductive potential is limited in the majority of species due to oocyte depletion. Because functional human oocytes are restricted in number and accessibility, a robust system to differentiate oocytes from stem cells would enable a thorough investigation of the genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors affecting human oocyte development. Also, the differentiation of functional oocytes from stem cells may permit the success of human somatic cell nuclear transfer for reprogramming studies and for the production of patient-specific embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Thus, ESC-derived oocytes could ultimately help to restore fertility in women. Here, we review endogenous and ESC-derived oocyte development, and we discuss the... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533155 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533155 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533153&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19366754%26dopt%3DAbstract This article provides a critical analysis of these issues and how they are addressed in current policies. PMID: 19366754 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533153 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533149&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19389995%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Guo T, Hebrok M The number of patients worldwide suffering from the chronic disease diabetes mellitus is growing at an alarming rate. Insulin-secreting beta-cells in the islet of Langerhans are damaged to different extents in diabetic patients, either through an autoimmune reaction present in type 1 diabetic patients or through inherent changes within beta-cells that affect their function in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes. Cell replacement strategies via islet transplantation offer potential therapeutic options for diabetic patients. However, the discrepancy between the limited number of donor islets and the high number of patients who could benefit from such a treatment reflects the dire need for renewable sources of high-quality beta-cells. Human embryonic stem cell... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533149 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533149 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533148&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19403887%26dopt%3DAbstract We present evidence for the existence and location of adrenocortical stem/progenitor cells and their potential contribution to adrenocortical carcinomas. Data described herein come primarily from studies conducted in the Hammer laboratory with incorporation of important related studies from other investigators. Together, the work provides a framework for the emerging somatic stem cell field as it relates to the adrenal gland. PMID: 19403887 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533148 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533148 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533146&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19433633%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Robertson RP, Giudice LC PMID: 19433633 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533146 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533162&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19176466%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kleinau G, Krause G The TSH receptor (TSHR) together with the homologous lutropin/choriogonadotropin receptor and the follitropin receptor are glycoprotein hormone receptors (GPHRs). They constitute a subfamily of the rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptors with seven transmembrane helices. GPHRs and their corresponding hormones are pivotal proteins with respect to a variety of physiological functions. The identification and characterization of intra- and intermolecular signaling determinants as well as signaling mechanisms are prerequisites to gaining molecular insights into functions and (pathogenic) dysfunctions of GPHRs. Knowledge about activation mechanisms is fragmentary, and the specific aspects have still not been understood in their entirety. Therefore, here we cri... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533162 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533159&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19237714%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Saidak Z, Mentaverri R, Brown EM The calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) is responsive to changes in the extracellular Ca(2+) (Ca(2+)(o)) concentration. It is a member of the largest family of cell surface receptors, the G protein-coupled receptors, and it has been shown to be involved in Ca(2+)(o) homeostasis. Apart from its primary role in Ca(2+)(o) homeostasis, the CaR may be involved in phenomena that allow for the development of many types of benign or malignant tumors, from parathyroid adenomas to breast, prostate, and colon cancers. For example, whereas the CaR is expressed in both normal and malignant breast tissue, increased CaR levels have been reported in highly metastatic primary breast cancer cells and breast cancer cell lines, possibly contributing to their malignancy... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533159 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533159 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2533157&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19240267%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Møller N, Jørgensen JO In evolutionary terms, GH and intracellular STAT 5 signaling is a very old regulatory system. Whereas insulin dominates periprandially, GH may be viewed as the primary anabolic hormone during stress and fasting. GH exerts anabolic effects directly and through stimulation of IGF-I, insulin, and free fatty acids (FFA). When subjects are well nourished, the GH-induced stimulation of IGF-I and insulin is important for anabolic storage and growth of lean body mass (LBM), adipose tissue, and glycogen reserves. During fasting and other catabolic states, GH predominantly stimulates the release and oxidation of FFA, which leads to decreased glucose and protein oxidation and preservation of LBM and glycogen stores. The most prominent metabolic effect of ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2533157 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2533157 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2288137&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19299251%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Douglas GC, Vandevoort C, Kumar P, Chang TC, Golos TG The placenta is an ephemeral organ, containing diverse populations of trophoblasts which are all derived from the embryonic trophectoderm, but which have morphological, functional and molecular diversity within and across species. In hemochorial placentation these cells play especially important roles interfacing with, and modifying the cells of the maternal decidua. Within the rapidly growing placenta, it has been shown that there are trophoblast stem cells (TSC), well characterized in the mouse, and postulated but not well-understood in primates. This review will discuss the characteristics of candidates for human and nonhuman primate TSC, present the diverse methods of their generation, and propose future prospects for e... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2288137 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2288137 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2221174&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19240267%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Møller N, Otto Lunde Jørgensen J In evolutionary terms growth hormone (GH) and intracellular STAT 5 signaling is a very old regulatory system. Whereas insulin dominates peri-prandially, GH may be viewed as the primary anabolic hormone during stress and fasting. GH exerts anabolic effects directly and through stimulation of IGF-I, insulin, and free fatty acids (FFA). When well nourished the GH-induced stimulation of IGF-I and insulin is important for anabolic storage and growth of lean body mass (LBM), adipose tissue and glycogen reserves. During fasting and other catabolic states GH predominantly stimulates the release and oxidation of FFA which leads to decreased glucose and protein oxidation and preservation of LBM and glycogen stores. The most prominent metabolic ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2221174 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2221174 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2215368&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19237714%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Saidak Z, Mentaverri R, Brown EM The Calcium sensing Receptor (CaR) is responsive to changes in the extracellular Ca(2+) concentration (Ca(2+)o). It is a member of the largest family of cell surface receptors, the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), and it has been shown to be involved in Ca(2+)o homeostasis. Apart from its primary role in Ca(2+)o homeostasis, the CaR may be involved in phenomena that allow for the development of many types of benign or malignant tumors, from parathyroid adenomas to breast, prostate and colon cancers. For example, while the CaR is expressed in both normal and malignant breast tissue, increased CaR levels have been reported in highly metastatic primary breast cancer cells and breast cancer cell lines, possibly contributing to their malignancy ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2215368 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2215368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2146879&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19176466%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kleinau G, Krause G The thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) together with the homologous lutropin/choriogonadotropin (LHCGR) and the follitropin receptor (FSHR) are glycoprotein-hormone receptors (GPHRs). They constitute a subfamily of the rhodopsin-like G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) with seven transmembrane helices. GPHRs and their corresponding hormones are pivotal proteins with respect to a variety of physiological functions. The identification and characterization of intra- and intermolecular signaling determinants as well as signaling-mechanisms are prerequisites to gaining molecular insights into functions and (pathogenic) dysfunctions of GPHRs. Knowledge about activation mechanisms is fragmentary and the specific aspects have still not been understood in their entirety. T... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2146879 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2146879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2146878&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19176467%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wang RS, Yeh S, Tzeng CR, Chang C Androgens are critical steroid hormones that determine the expression of the male phenotype, including the outward development of secondary sex characteristics as well as the initiation and maintenance of spermatogenesis. Their actions are mediated by the androgen receptor (AR), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. AR functions as a ligand-dependent transcription factor, regulating expression of an array of androgen-responsive genes. Androgen and the AR play important roles in male spermatogenesis and fertility. The recent generation and characterization of male total and conditional AR knockout (AR(-/y)) mice from different laboratories demonstrated the necessity of AR signaling for both external and internal male phenotype developme... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2146878 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2146878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2120337&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19151107%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Johnson RJ, Perez-Pozo SE, Sautin YY, Manitius J, Sanchez-Lozada LG, Feig DI, Shafiu M, Segal M, Glassock RJ, Shimada M, Roncal C, Nakagawa T We propose that excessive fructose intake (>50 g/day) may be one of the underlying etiologies of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. The primary sources of fructose are sugar (sucrose) and high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). First, fructose intake correlates closely with the rate of diabetes worldwide. Second, unlike other sugars, the ingestion of excessive fructose induces features of metabolic syndrome in both laboratory animals and humans. Third, fructose appears to mediate the metabolic syndrome in part by raising uric acid, and there is now extensive experimental and clinical data supporting uric acid in the pathogenesis of meta... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2120337 Fri, 16 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2120337 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2045342&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19075184%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kleinberg DL, Wood TL, Furth PA, Lee AV Adult female mammary development starts at puberty and is controlled by tightly regulated cross-talk between a group of hormones and growth factors. Although estrogen is the initial driving force, and is joined by luteal phase progesterone, both of these hormones require growth hormone induced IGF-I in the mammary gland in order to act. The same group of hormones, when experimentally perturbed, can lead to development of hyperplastic lesions and increase the chances, or be precursors, of mammary carcinoma. For example, systemic administration of growth hormone (GH) or IGF-I causes mammary hyperplasia, and overproduction of IGF-I in transgenic animals can cause the development of usual or atypical hyperplasias and sometimes carcinoma. Whi... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2045342 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2045342 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2045343&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19074586%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vandenberg LN, Maffini MV, Sonnenschein C, Rubin BS, Soto AM In 1991, a group of 21 scientists gathered at the Wingspread Conference center to discuss evidence of developmental alterations observed in wildlife populations following chemical exposures. There, the term "endocrine disruptor" was agreed upon to describe a class of chemicals including those that act as agonists and antagonists of the estrogen receptors, androgen receptor, thyroid hormone receptor, and others. This definition has since evolved and the field has grown to encompass hundreds of chemicals. In spite of significant advances in the study of endocrine disruptors, several controversies have sprung up and continue, including the debate over the existence of non-monotonic dose response curves, the mechanisms o... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2045343 Fri, 12 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2045343 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2016030&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19056992%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Palomba S, Falbo A, Zullo F, Orio Jr F Metformin is an insulin sensitizer widely used for the treatment of patients affected by type-2 diabetes mellitus. Since many women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are insulin resistant, metformin was introduced in clinical practice to also treat these patients. Moreover, metformin's effect has other targets beside its insulin-sensitizing action. The present review was aimed to describe all evidence-based and potential employments of metformin in PCOS patients. In particular, will be analyzed not only the uses of metformin for the treatment of all PCOS-related disturbances such as menstrual disorders, anovulatory infertility, increased abortion or complicated pregnancy risk, hyperandrogenism, endometrial, metabolic and cardiovascula... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2016030 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2016030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1923637&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18971485%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cornier MA, Dabelea D, Hernandez TL, Lindstrom RC, Steig AJ, Stob NR, Van Pelt RE, Wang H, Eckel RH The 'Metabolic Syndrome' (MetS) is a clustering of components that reflect overnutrition, sedentary lifestyles, and resultant excess adiposity. The MetS includes the clustering of abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and elevated blood pressure and is associated with other comorbidities including the prothrombotic state, proinflammatory state, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and reproductive disorders. Because the MetS is a cluster of different conditions, and not a single disease, the development of multiple concurrent definitions has resulted. The prevalence of the MetS is increasing to epidemic proportions not only in the United States and the remainder of t... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1923637 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1923637 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1904998&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18940916%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Veldhuis JD, Keenan DM, Pincus SM Endocrine glands communicate with remote target cells via mixture of continuous and intermittent signal exchange. Continuous signaling allows slowly varying control, whereas intermittency permits rapid large adjustments. The control systems that mediate such homeostatic corrections operate in a species-, gender-, age- and context-selective fashion. Significant progress has been made in understanding mechanisms of adaptive interglandular signaling in vivo. Principal goals are to understand the physiological origins, significance and mechanisms of pulsatile hormone secretion. Key analytical issues are to (i) quantify the number, size, shape and uniformity of pulses, nonpulsatile (basal) secretion and elimination kinetics, (ii) evaluate regulatio... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1904998 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1904998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1843745&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18824526%26dopt%3DAbstract THE CAP SUPERFAMILY: CYSTEINE-RICH SECRETORY PROTEINS, ANTIGEN 5 AND PATHOGENESIS-RELATED 1 PROTEINS - ROLES IN REPRODUCTION, CANCER AND IMMUNE DEFENSE. Endocr Rev. 2008 Sep 29; Authors: Gibbs GM, Roelants K, O'Bryan MK The cysteine-rich secretory proteins, antigen 5 and pathogenesis-related 1 proteins (CAP) superfamily members are found in a remarkable range of organisms spanning each of the animal kingdoms. Within humans and mice there are 31 and 33 individual family members respectively, and although many are poorly characterized, the majority show a notable expression bias to the reproductive tract, immune tissues or are deregulated in cancers. CAP superfamily proteins are most often secreted and have an extracellular endocrine or paracrine function and are involved in proc... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1843745 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1843745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1832415&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18815314%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gereben B, Zavacki AM, Ribich S, Kim BW, Huang SA, Simonides WS, Zeöld A, Bianco AC The iodothyronine deiodinases initiate or terminate thyroid hormone action, and therefore are critical for the biological effects mediated by thyroid hormone. Over the years research has focused on their role in preserving serum levels of the biologically active molecule triiodothyronine (T3) during iodine deficiency. More recently, a fascinating new role of these enzymes has been unveiled. The activating deiodinase (D2) and the inactivating deiodinase (D3) can locally increase or decrease thyroid hormone signaling in a tissue- and temporal-specific fashion, independently of changes in thyroid hormone serum concentrations. This mechanism is particularly relevant as deiodinase expression ca... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1832415 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1832415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1778475&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18776148%26dopt%3DAbstract JOINT GENETIC SUSCEPTIBILITY TO TYPE 1 DIABETES AND AUTOIMMUNE THYROIDITIS: FROM EPIDEMIOLOGY TO MECHANISMS. Endocr Rev. 2008 Sep 5; Authors: Huber A, Menconi F, Corathers S, Jacobson EM, Tomer Y Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD) frequently occur together within families and in the same individual. The co-occurrence of T1D+AITD in the same patient is one of the variants of the autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 3 (APS3 variant [APS3v]). Epidemiological data point to a strong genetic influence on the shared susceptibility to T1D and AITD. Recently, significant progress has been made in our understanding of the genetic association between T1D and AITD. At least 3 genes have been confirmed as major joint susceptibility genes for T1D and AITD, HLA cla... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1778475 Fri, 05 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1778475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1745164&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18723451%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stefan N, Kantartzis K, Häring HU Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease represent a serious threat to the health of the population worldwide. While overall adiposity and particularly visceral adiposity are established risk factors for these diseases, in the recent years fatty liver emerged as an additional and independent factor. However, the pathophysiology of fat accumulation in the liver and the cross-talk of fatty liver with other tissues involved in metabolism in humans are not fully understood. Here we discuss the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of hepatic fat accumulation, particularly the roles of body fat distribution, nutrition, exercise, genetics and gene-environment interaction. Furthermore, the effects of fatty liver on glucose and lipid metaboli... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1745164 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1745164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1704242&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18694980%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bouillon R, Carmeliet G, Verlinden L, van Etten E, Verstuyf A, Luderer HF, Lieben L, Mathieu C, Demay M The vitamin D endocrine system is essential for calcium and bone homeostasis. The precise mode of action and the full spectrum of activities of the vitamin D hormone, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25-(OH)2D], can now be better evaluated by critical analysis of mice with engineered deletion of the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Absence of a functional VDR or the key activating enzyme, 25-OHD-1alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1), in mice creates a bone and growth plate phenotype that mimics humans with the same congenital disease or severe vitamin D deficiency. The intestine is the key target for the VDR because high calcium intake, or selective VDR rescue in the intestine, restores a normal ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1704242 Mon, 11 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1704242 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1670860&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18664617%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Huang X, Moore DJ, Ketchum RJ, Nunemaker CS, Kovatchev B, McCall AL, Brayman KL While Type 1 diabetes (T1D) cannot be prevented or reversed, replacement of insulin production by transplantation of the pancreas or pancreatic islets represents a definitive solution. At present, transplantation can restore euglycemia, but this restoration is short-lived, requires islets from multiple donors, and necessitates life-long immunosuppression. An emerging paradigm in transplantation and autoimmunity indicates that systemic inflammation contributes to tissue injury while disrupting immune tolerance. We identify multiple barriers to successful islet transplantation each of which either contributes to the inflammatory state or is augmented by it. To optimize islet transplantation for diabe... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1670860 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1670860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1670859&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18664618%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Giguère V Transcriptional control of cellular energy metabolic pathways is achieved by the coordinated action of numerous transcription factors and associated coregulators. Several members of the nuclear receptor superfamily have been shown to play important roles in this process as they can translate hormonal, nutrient and metabolite signals into specific gene expression networks to satisfy energy demands in response to distinct physiological cues. Estrogen-related receptor (ERR) alpha, ERRbeta and ERRgamma are nuclear receptors that have yet to be associated with a natural ligand, and are thus considered as orphan receptors. However, the transcriptional activity of the ERRs is exquisitely sensitive to the presence of coregulatory proteins known to be essential for the c... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1670859 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1670859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1605097&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18612139%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Brzoska T, Luger TA, Maaser C, Abels C, Böhm M alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) is a tridecapeptide derived from the proopiomelanocortin. Many studies over the last years have provided evidence that alpha-MSH has potent protective and anti-inflammatory effects. These effects can be elicited via centrally expressed melanocortin receptors which orchestrate descending neurogenic anti- inflammatory pathways. alpha-MSH can also exert anti-inflammatory and protective effects on cells of the immune system and on peripheral non-immune cell types expressing melanocortin receptors. At the molecular level, alpha-MSH affects various pathways implicated in regulation of inflammation and protection, i. e. NF-kappaB activation, expression of adhesion molecules and chemok... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1605097 Tue, 08 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1605097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1602261&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18606873%26dopt%3DAbstract GLYCEROLIPID METABOLISM AND SIGNALING IN HEALTH AND DISEASE. Endocr Rev. 2008 Jul 8; Authors: Prentki M, Murthy Madiraju SR Maintenance of body temperature is achieved partly by modulating lipolysis by a network of complex regulatory mechanisms. Lipolysis is an integral part of the glycerolipid/free fatty acid (GL/FFA) cycle, which is the focus of this review and we discuss the significance of this pathway in the regulation of many physiological processes besides thermogenesis. GL/FFA cycle is referred to as a "futile" cycle as it involves continuous formation and hydrolysis of GL with the release of heat, at the expense of ATP. However, we present evidence underscoring the "vital" cellular signaling roles of the GL/FFA cycle for many biological processes. Probably because of i... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1602261 Tue, 08 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1602261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1563166&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18591260%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rodgers BD, Garikipati DK The discovery of myostatin and our introduction to the "Mighty Mouse" over a decade ago has spurred both basic and applied research and has impacted popular culture as well. The myostatin null genotype produces "double muscling" in mice and livestock and was recently described in a child. The field's rapid growth is by no means surprising considering the potential benefits of enhancing muscle growth in clinical and agricultural settings. Indeed, several recent studies suggest that blocking myostatin's inhibitory effects could improve the clinical treatment of several muscle growth disorders while comparative studies suggest that these actions are at least partly conserved. Thus, neutralizing myostatin's effects could also have agricultural significanc... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1563166 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1563166 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1418223&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18451258%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Khosla S, Amin S, Orwoll E With the aging of the population, there is a growing recognition that osteoporosis and fractures in men are a significant public health problem, and both hip and vertebral fractures are associated with increased morbidity and mortality in men. Osteoporosis in men is a heterogeneous clinical entity: while most men experience bone loss with aging, some men develop osteoporosis at a relatively young age, often for unexplained reasons (idiopathic osteoporosis). Declining sex steroid levels and other hormonal changes likely contribute to age-related bone loss, as do impairments in osteoblast number and/or activity. Secondary causes of osteoporosis also play a significant role in pathogenesis. While there is ongoing controversy regarding whether osteoporos... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1418223 Thu, 01 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1418223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1418222&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18451259%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lorenzo J, Horowitz M, Choi Y Bone and the immune system are both complex tissues that respectively regulate the skeleton and the body's response to invading pathogens. It has now become clear that these organ systems often interact in their function. This is particularly true for the development of immune cells in the bone marrow and for the function of bone cells in health and disease. Because these two disciplines developed independently, investigators in each don't always fully appreciate the significance of the other system on the function of the tissue that they are studying. This review is meant to provide a broad overview of the many ways that bone and immune cells interact so that a better understanding of the role that each plays in the development and function of th... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1418222 Thu, 01 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1418222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1418221&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18451260%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Holland WL, Summers SA Obesity and dyslipidemia are risk factors for metabolic disorders including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Sphingolipids such as ceramide and glucosylceramides, while being a relatively minor component of the lipid mileu in most tissues, may be amongst the most pathogenic lipids in the onset of the sequelae associated with excess adiposity. Circulating factors associated with obesity (e.g. saturated fatty acids, inflammatory cytokines) selectively induce enzymes which promote sphingolipid synthesis, and lipidomic profiling reveals relationships between tissue sphingolipid levels and certain metabolic diseases. Moreover, studies in cultured cells and isolated tissues implicate sphingolipids in certain cellular events associated with diabetes and car... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1418221 Thu, 01 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1418221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401139&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18436703%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Foresta C, Zuccarello D, Garolla A, Ferlin A Cryptorchidism is the most frequent congenital birth defect in male children (2-4% in full-term male births) and it has the potential to impact the health of the human male. In fact, although it is often considered a mild malformation, it represents the best characterized risk factor for reduced fertility and testicular cancer. Furthermore, some reports have highlighted a significant increase in the prevalence of cryptorchidism over the last few decades. Etiology of cryptorchidism remains for the most part unknown, and cryptorchidism itself might be considered a complex disease. Major regulators of testicular descent from intra-abdominal location into the bottom of the scrotum are the Leydig-cell derived hormones testosterone and In... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401139 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1401139 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401138&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18436704%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Page ST, Amory JK, Bremner WJ Despite significant advances in contraceptive options for women over the last 50 years, world population continues to grow rapidly. Scientists and activists alike point to the devastating environmental impacts that population pressures have caused including global warming from the developed world and hunger and disease in less developed areas. Moreover, almost of half of all pregnancies are still unwanted or unplanned. Clearly, there is a need for expanded, reversible, contraceptive options. Multicultural surveys demonstrate men's willingness to participate in contraception and their female partners to trust them to do so. Notwithstanding their paucity of options, male methods including vasectomy and condoms account for almost a third of contracep... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401138 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1401138 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401137&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18436705%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Scheuner D, Kaufman RJ The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the entry site into the secretory pathway for newly synthesized proteins destined for the cell surface or released into the extracellular milieu. The study of protein folding and trafficking within the ER is an extremely active area of research that has provided novel insights into many disease processes. Cells have evolved mechanisms to modulate the capacity and quality of the ER protein-folding machinery to prevent the accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins. These signaling pathways, collectively termed the unfolded protein response (UPR), detect the accumulation of unfolded and misfolded proteins in the ER lumen through three ER transmembrane sensors, IRE1alpha, PERK, and ATF6. The UPR sensors signal a transcr... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401137 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1401137 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401136&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18436706%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Giustina A, Mazziotti G, Canalis E Growth Hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) are important regulators of bone homeostasis and are central to the achievement of normal longitudinal bone growth and bone mass. Although GH may act directly on skeletal cells, most of its effects are mediated by IGF-I, which is present in the systemic circulation and is synthesized by peripheral tissues. The availability of IGF-I is regulated by IGF binding proteins. IGF-I enhances the differentiated function of the osteoblast and bone formation. Adult GH deficiency causes low bone turnover osteoporosis with high risk of vertebral and non-vertebral fractures, and the low bone mass can be partially reversed by GH replacement. Acromegaly is characterized by high bone turnover, which... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401136 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1401136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401135&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18436707%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Aguilar-Bryan L, Bryan J An explosion of work over the last decade has produced insight into the multiple hereditary causes of a nonimmunologic form of diabetes diagnosed most frequently within the first 6 months of life. These studies are providing increased understanding of genes involved in the entire chain of steps that control glucose homeostasis. Neonatal diabetes is now understood to arise from mutations in genes that play critical roles in the development of the pancreas, of beta-cell apoptosis and insulin processing, as well as the regulation of insulin release. For the basic researcher this work is providing novel tools to explore fundamental molecular and cellular processes. For the clinician, these studies underscore the need to identify the genetic cause underlyin... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401135 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1401135 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401134&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18436708%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vaxillaire M, Froguel P Most valuable breakthroughs in the genetics of type 2 diabetes for the past two decades have arisen from candidate gene studies and familial linkage analysis of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY), an autosomal dominant form of diabetes typically occurring before 25 years of age caused by primary insulin secretion defects. Despite its low prevalence, MODY is not a single entity but presents genetic, metabolic and clinical heterogeneity. MODY can result from mutations in at least 6 different genes encoding the glucose sensor enzyme glucokinase and transcription factors which participate in a regulatory network essential for adult b-cell function. Additional genes have been described in other discrete phenotypes or syndromic forms of diabetes. Whe... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401134 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1401134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401133&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18436709%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kodl CT, Seaquist ER The deleterious effects of diabetes mellitus on the retinal, renal, cardiovascular, and peripheral nervous systems are widely acknowledged. Less attention has been given to the effect of diabetes on cognitive function. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus have been associated with reduced performance on numerous domains of cognitive function. The exact pathophysiology of cognitive dysfunction in diabetes is not completely understood, but it is likely that hyperglycemia, vascular disease, hypoglycemia, and insulin resistance play significant roles. Modalities to study the effect of diabetes on the brain have evolved over the years, including neurocognitive testing, evoked response potentials, and magnetic resonance imaging. Although much insightful rese... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401133 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1401133 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1277352&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18314421%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Haataja L, Gurlo T, Huang CJ, Butler PC Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is characterized by insulin resistance, defective insulin secretion, loss of beta-cell mass with increased beta-cell apoptosis and islet amyloid. The islet amyloid is derived from islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP, amylin), a protein coexpressed and cosecreted with insulin by pancreatic beta-cells. In common with other amyloidogenic proteins, IAPP has the propensity to form membrane permeant toxic oligomers. Accumulating evidence suggests that these toxic oligomers, rather than the extracellular amyloid form of these proteins, are responsible for loss of neurons in neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss emerging evidence to suggest that formation of intracellular IAPP oligomers may contribute to beta-... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1277352 Tue, 26 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1277352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1251519&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18292464%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mimeault M, Mehta PP, Hauke R, Batra SK This review summarizes the recent advancements that have improved our understanding of the functions of prostatic stem/progenitor cells in maintaining homeostasis of the prostate gland. We also describe the oncogenic events that may contribute to their malignant transformation into prostatic cancer stem/progenitor cells during cancer initiation and progression to metastatic disease stages. The molecular mechanisms that may contribute to the intrinsic or the acquisition of a resistant phenotype by the prostatic cancer stem/progenitor cells and their differentiated progenies with a luminal phenotype to the current therapies and disease relapse are also reviewed. The emphasis is on the critical functions of distinct tumorigenic signaling ca... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1251519 Thu, 21 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1251519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1251518&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18292465%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Salehi M, Aulinger BA, D'Alessio DA Progressive inherent insulin secretory defects, due to either functional abnormalities of the pancreatic beta-cells or a reduction in beta-cell mass are the cornerstone of type 2 diabetes. Incretin-based drugs hold the potential to improve glucose tolerance by immediate favorable effect on beta-cell physiology as well as by expanding or at least maintaining beta-cell mass, which may delay the progression of the disease. Long-term studies in humans are needed to elaborate on this effect. PMID: 18292465 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1251518 Thu, 21 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1251518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1251517&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18292466%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Connell JM, Mackenzie SM, Freel EM, Fraser R, Davies E Up to 15% of patients with essential hypertension have inappropriate regulation of aldosterone; although only a minority have distinct adrenal tumors, recent evidence shows that mineralocorticoid receptor activation contributes to the age-related blood pressure rise and illustrates the importance of aldosterone in determining cardiovascular risk. Aldosterone also has a major role in progression and outcome of ischaemic heart disease. These data highlight the need to understand better the regulation of aldosterone synthesis and its action. Aldosterone effects are mediated mainly through classical nuclear receptors that alter gene transcription. In classic epithelial target tissues, signalling mechanisms are relatively well ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1251517 Thu, 21 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1251517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1251516&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18292467%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Balasubramanyam A, Nalini R, Hampe CS, Maldonado M Ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD) is a widespread, emerging, heterogeneous syndrome, characterized by patients who present with diabetic ketoacidosis or unprovoked ketosis but who do not necessarily have the typical phenotype of autoimmune type 1 diabetes. Multiple, severe forms of beta-cell dysfunction appear to underlie the pathophysiology of KPD. Until recently, the syndrome has lacked an accurate, clinically relevant, and etiologically useful classification scheme. We have utilized a large, longitudinally followed, heterogeneous, multiethnic cohort of KPD patients to identify four clinically and pathophysiologically distinct subgroups that are separable by the presence or absence of beta-cell autoimmunity and the presence or ab... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1251516 Thu, 21 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1251516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1177262&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18216218%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cotton LM, O'Bryan MK, Hinton BT The major function of the reproductive system is to ensure the survival of the species by passing on hereditary traits from one generation to the next. This is accomplished through the production of gametes and the generation of hormones which function in the maturation and regulation of the reproductive system. It is well established that normal development and function of the male reproductive system is mediated by endocrine and paracrine signaling pathways. Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), their receptors (FGFRs) and signaling cascades have been implicated in a diverse range of cellular processes including: proliferation, apoptosis, cell survival, chemotaxis, cell adhesion, motility, and differentiation. The maintenance and regulation of co... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1177262 Wed, 23 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1177262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1177261&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18216219%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Arpino G, Wiechmann L, Osborne CK, Schiff R Breast cancer evolution and tumor progression are governed by the complex interactions between steroid receptor [estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PgR)] and growth factor receptor signaling. In recent years, the field of cancer therapy has witnessed the emergence of multiple strategies targeting these specific cancer pathways and key molecules (ER and growth factor receptors) to arrest tumor growth and achieve tumor eradication; treatment success, however, has varied and both de novo (upfront) and acquired resistance have proven a challenge. Recent studies of ER biology have revealed new insights into ER action in breast cancer and have highlighted the role of an intimate cross-talk between the ER and HER family signa... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1177261 Wed, 23 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1177261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1160704&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18199690%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Goldfine ID, Maddux BA, Youngren JF, Reaven G, Accili D, Trischitta V, Vigneri R, Frittitta L Insulin resistance is a major feature of most patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). A number of laboratories have observed that membrane glycoprotein PC-1 (ENNP1) is either overexpressed or overactive in muscle, adipose tissue, fibroblasts, and other tissues of insulin-resistant individuals, both nondiabetic and diabetic. Moreover, in cultured cells in vitro and in transgenic mice in vivo, PC-1 overexpression impairs insulin stimulation of insulin receptor (IR) activation and downstream signaling. PC-1 binds to the connecting domain of the IR alpha-subunit that is located in residues 485-599. The connecting domain transmits insulin binding in the alpha-subunit to activation of... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1160704 Wed, 16 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1160704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1078949&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18057139%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this review is to compare and contrast multiple aspects of PRL, from structure to regulation, and from physiology to pathology in rats, mice, and humans. At each juncture, questions are raised whether, or to what extent, data from rodents are relevant to PRL homeostasis in humans. Most current knowledge on PRL has been obtained from studies with rats, and more recently, from the use of transgenic mice. Although this information is indispensable for understanding PRL in human health and disease, there is sufficient disparity in the control of the production, distribution and physiological functions of PRL among these species to warrant careful and judicial extrapolation to humans. PMID: 18057139 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1078949 Wed, 05 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1078949 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1078948&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18057140%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kearns AE, Khosla S, Kostenuik P Osteoclasts and osteoblasts dictate skeletal mass, structure, and strength via their respective roles in resorbing and forming bone. Bone remodeling is a spatially coordinated lifelong process whereby old bone is removed by osteoclasts and replaced by bone-forming osteoblasts. The refilling of resorption cavities is incomplete in many pathologic states, which leads to a net loss of bone mass with each remodeling cycle. Postmenopausal osteoporosis and other conditions are associated with an increased rate of bone remodeling, which leads to accelerated bone loss and increased risk of fracture. Bone resorption is dependent on a cytokine known as RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand), a TNF (tumor necrosis factor) family membe... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1078948 Wed, 05 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1078948 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1064048&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18048762%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Donath MY, Størling J, Berchtold LA, Billestrup N, Mandrup-Poulsen T The tale of cytokines and the beta-cell is a long story, starting with in vitro discovery in 1984, evolving via descriptive and phenomenological studies to detailed mapping of the signalling pathways, gene- and protein expression patterns, molecular and biochemical effector mechanisms to in vivo studies in spontaneously diabetic and transgenic animal models. Only very recently have steps been taken to translate the accumulating compelling preclinical data into clinical trials. The aim of this chapter is to present an overview of early and recent key observations from our own groups as well as other laboratories that serve to illuminate the road from concept to clinical translation. PMID: 18048762 [Pu... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1064048 Thu, 29 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1064048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1064047&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18048763%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Poitout V, Robertson RP Glucotoxicity, lipotoxicity, and glucolipotoxicity are secondary phenomena that are proposed to play a role in all forms of type 2 diabetes. The underlying concept is that once the primary pathogenesis of diabetes is established, probably involving both genetic and environmental forces, hyperglycemia and very commonly hyperlipidemia ensue and thereafter exert additional damaging or toxic effects on the beta-cell. In addition to their contribution to the deterioration of beta-cell function after the onset of the disease, elevations of plasma fatty acid levels that often accompany insulin resistance may, as glucose levels begin to rise outside of the normal range, also play a pathogenic role in the early stages of the disease. Because hyperglycemia is a p... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1064047 Thu, 29 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1064047 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1064046&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18048764%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Eizirik DL, Cardozo AK, Cnop M Accumulating evidence suggests that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays a role in the pathogenesis of diabetes, contributing to pancreatic beta-cell loss and insulin resistance. Components of the unfolded protein response (UPR) play a dual role in beta-cells, acting as beneficial regulators under physiological conditions or as triggers of beta-cell dysfunction and apoptosis under situations of chronic stress. Novel findings suggest that "what makes a beta-cell a beta-cell", i.e., its enormous capacity to synthesize and secrete insulin, is also its "Achilles heel", rendering it vulnerable to chronic high glucose and fatty acid exposure, agents that contribute to beta-cell failure in type 2 diabetes. In this review, we address the transition fr... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1064046 Thu, 29 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1064046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1018744&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17991805%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Biondi B, Cooper DS Subclinical thyroid disease (SCTD) is defined as serum FT4 and FT3 levels within their respective reference ranges in the presence of abnormal serum thyrotropin-stimulating hormone levels. Subclinical thyroid disease is being diagnosed more frequently in clinical practice in young and middle-aged people as well as in the elderly. However, the clinical significance of subclinical thyroid dysfunction is much debated. Subclinical hyper- and hypothyroidism can have repercussions on the cardiovascular system and bone, as well as on other organs and systems. However, the treatment and management of SCTD and population screening are controversial despite the potential risk of progression to overt disease, and there is no consensus on the thyroid hormone and thyrot... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1018744 Thu, 08 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1018744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1008983&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17981890%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rose DP, Haffner SM, Baillargeon J Breast cancer, the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in American women, varies substantially in incidence and mortality according to race and ethnicity in the United States. Although the overall incidence of breast cancer among African-American (AA) women is lower than in white American women, this cancer is more common in young premenopausal AA women, and AA breast cancer patients of all ages are more likely to have advanced disease at diagnosis, higher risk of recurrence, and poorer overall prognosis. Epidemiological studies indicate that these differences may be attributable in part to variation in obesity and body fat distribution. Additionally, AA women more frequently exhibit breast cancer with an aggressive and metastat... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1008983 Fri, 02 Nov 2007 04:00:00 +0100 1008983 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=961305&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17940184%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Heemers HV, Tindall DJ Androgens, acting through the androgen receptor (AR), are responsible for the development of the male phenotype during embryogenesis, the achievement of sexual maturation at puberty and the maintenance of male reproductive function and behavior in adulthood. In addition, androgens affect a wide variety of nonreproductive tissues. Moreover, aberrant androgen action plays a critical role in multiple pathologies, including prostate cancer and androgen insensitivity syndromes. The formation of a productive AR transcriptional complex requires the functional and structural interaction of the AR with its coregulators. In the last decade, an overwhelming and ever increasing number of proteins have been proposed to possess AR coactivating or corepressing characte... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=961305 Tue, 16 Oct 2007 04:00:00 +0100 961305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=961304&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17940185%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Xing M In recent years, the T1799A BRAF mutation in thyroid cancer has received enthusiastic investigation, and significant progress has been made toward understanding its tumorigenic role and clinical significance. Among various thyroid tumors, this mutation occurs uniquely in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), the most common endocrine malignancy, and some apparently PTC-derived anaplastic thyroid cancers. Many studies have found this mutation to be associated with those clinicopathological characteristics of PTC that are conventionally known to predict tumor progression and recurrence, including, for example, old patient age, extrathyroidal invasion, lymph node metastasis, and advanced tumor stages. Direct association of BRAF mutation with the clinical progression, recurrence,... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=961304 Tue, 16 Oct 2007 04:00:00 +0100 961304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=932366&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17916740%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hammes SR, Levin ER Rapid effects of steroid hormones result from the actions of specific receptors localized most often to the plasma membrane. Fast-acting membrane-initiated steroid signaling (MISS)(1) leads to the modification of existing proteins and cell behaviors. Rapid steroid-triggered signaling through calcium, amine release, and kinase activation also impacts the regulation of gene expression by steroids, sometimes requiring integration with nuclear steroid receptor function. In this and other ways, the integration of all steroid actions in the cell coordinates outcomes such as cell fate, proliferation, differentiation, and migration. The nature of the receptors is of intense interest, and significant data suggest that extranuclear and nuclear steroid receptor pools ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=932366 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 04:00:00 +0100 932366 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=932365&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17916741%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mukherjee AB, Zhang Z, Chilton BS Blastokinin or uteroglobin (UG) is a steroid-inducible, evolutionarily conserved, secreted protein that has been extensively studied from the standpoint of its structure and molecular biology. However, the physiological function(s) of UG still remains elusive. Isolated from the uterus of rabbits during early pregnancy, UG is the founding member of a growing superfamily of proteins called Secretoglobin (Scgb). Numerous studies demonstrated that UG is a multifunctional protein with anti-inflammatory/ immunomodulatory properties. It inhibits soluble phospholipase A2 activity, binds and perhaps sequesters hydrophobic ligands such as progesterone, retinols, polychlorinated biphenyls, phospholipids and prostaglandins. In addition to its anti-inflamm... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=932365 Thu, 04 Oct 2007 04:00:00 +0100 932365 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=890555&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17881611%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jørgensen MC, Ahnfelt-Rønne J, Hald J, Madsen OD, Serup P, Hecksher-Sørensen J Pancreas morphogenesis and cell differentiation is highly conserved among vertebrates during fetal development. The pancreas develops through simple bud-like structures on the primitive gut tube to a highly branched organ containing many specialized cell types. This review presents an overview of key molecular components and important signaling sources illustrated by an extensive three dimensional (3D) imaging of the developing mouse pancreas at single cell resolution. The 3D documentation covers the time window between e8.5 and e14.5 in which all the pancreatic cell types become specified and therefore includes gene expression patterns of pancreatic endocrine hormones, exocrine gene ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=890555 Wed, 19 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100 890555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=887607&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17878408%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Leung YM, Kwan EP, Ng B, Kang Y, Gaisano HY The three SNARE (soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors) proteins, syntaxin, SNAP25 (synaptosome-associated protein of 25 kDa) and synaptobrevin, constitute the minimal machinery for exocytosis in secretory cells such as neurons and neuroendocrine cells by forming a series of complexes prior to and during vesicle fusion. It was subsequently found that these SNARE proteins not only participate in vesicle fusion, but also tether with voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels (VDCC) to form an excitosome that precisely regulates calcium entry at the site of exocytosis. In pancreatic islet beta-cells, ATP-sensitive K(+) (KATP) channel closure by high ATP concentration leads to membrane depolarization, VDCC opening... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=887607 Tue, 18 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100 887607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=845379&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17785427%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mm K, A I Obesity is a serious public health problem throughout the world, affecting both developed societies and developing countries. The central nervous system has developed a meticulously interconnected circuitry in order to keep us fed and in adequate nutritional state. One of these consequences is that an energy dense environment favors the development of obesity NPY is one of the most abundant and widely distributed peptides in the central nervous system (CNS) of both rodents and humans and has been implicated in a variety of physiological actions. Within the hypothalamus, NPY play an essential role in the control of food intake and body weight. Centrally administered NPY causes robust increases in food intake and body weight and, with chronic administration, can eventu... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=845379 Tue, 04 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100 845379 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=845378&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17785428%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fineberg SE, Kawabata TT, Finco-Kent D, Fountaine RJ, Finch GL, Krasner AS Regardless of purity and origin, therapeutic insulins continue to be immunogenic in humans. However, severe immunologic complications occur rarely, and less severe events affect a small minority of patients. Insulin antibodies (IAs) may be detectable in insulin-naïve individuals who have a high likelihood of developing type 1 diabetes or in patients who have had viral disorders, have been treated with various drugs, or have autoimmune disorders or paraneoplastic syndromes. This suggests that under certain circumstances immune tolerance to insulin can be overcome. Factors that can lead to more or less susceptibility to humoral responses to exogenous insulin include the recipient's immune response ge... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=845378 Tue, 04 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100 845378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=845377&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17785429%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gibney J, Healy ML, Sönksen PH The syndrome of adult growth hormone (GH) deficiency (AGHD) and the effects of GH replacement therapy provide a useful model with which to study the effects of the GH/insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) axis on exercise physiology. Measures of exercise performance including maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and ventilatory threshold (VeT) are impaired in AGHD and improved by GH replacement, probably through some combination of increased oxygen delivery to exercising muscle, increased fatty acid availability with glycogen sparing, increased muscle strength, improved body composition and improved thermoregulation. In normal subjects, in addition to the long-term effects of GH/IGF-I status, there is evidence that the acute GH response to exercise... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=845377 Tue, 04 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100 845377 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=829533&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17722365%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 17722365 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=829533 Wed, 01 Aug 2007 04:00:00 +0100 829533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=829532&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17722366%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 17722366 [PubMed - in process] (Source: ENDOCR REV) ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=829532 Wed, 01 Aug 2007 04:00:00 +0100 829532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=748283&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17640948%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Straub RH There is still the unresolved paradox with respect to the immunomodulating role of estrogens: On one side, we recognize inhibition of bone resorption and suppression of inflammation in several animal models of chronic inflammatory diseases. On the other hand, we realize the immunosupportive role of estrogens in trauma/sepsis and the proinflammatory effects in some chronic autoimmune diseases in humans. This review examines possible causes for this paradox. This review delineates that effects of estrogens dependent on criteria such as 1) the immune stimulus (foreign antigens or autoantigens) and subsequent antigen-specific immune responses (e.g., T cell inhibited by estrogens versus activation of B cell), 2) the cell types involved during different phases of the disea... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=748283 Thu, 19 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100 748283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=715888&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17609497%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lonard DM, Lanz RB, O'malley BW Nuclear receptor (NR) coregulators (coactivators and corepressors) are essential elements in regulating nuclear receptor-mediated transcription. In a little more than a decade since their discovery, these proteins have been studied mechanistically and reveal that the regulation of transcription is a highly controlled and complex process. Because of their central role in regulating NR-mediated transcription and in coordinating intercompartmental metabolic processes, disruptions in coregulator biology can lead to pathological states. To date, the extent to which they are involved in human disease has not been widely appreciated. In a complete literature survey, we have identified nearly 300 distinct coregulators, revealing that a great variety of ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=715888 Tue, 03 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100 715888 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=635582&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17525361%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Muniyappa R, Montagnani M, Koh KK, Quon MJ Insulin has important vascular actions to stimulate production of nitric oxide (NO) from endothelium. This leads to capillary recruitment, vasodilation, increased blood flow, and subsequent augmentation of glucose disposal in classical insulin target tissues (e.g, skeletal muscle). Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-dependent insulin signaling pathways regulating endothelial production of NO share striking parallels with metabolic insulin signaling pathways. Distinct MAP-kinase-dependent insulin signaling pathways (largely unrelated to metabolic actions of insulin) regulate secretion of the vasoconstrictor endothelin-1 from endothelium. These and other cardiovascular actions of insulin contribute to coupling metabolic and hemodynami... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=635582 Thu, 24 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 635582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=590551&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17475924%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the recent literature including basic science, animal models and clinical studies, regarding the role of these chemokines in autoimmune endocrine diseases. The potential clinical applications of assaying the serum levels of CXCL10 and the value of such measurements are reviewed. Clinical studies addressing the issue of a role for serum CXCL10 measurement in Graves'disease, Graves'ophthalmopathy, chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, Type 1 diabetes mellitus and Addison's disease, have been considered. The principal aim was to propose that chemokines, and in particular CXCL10, should be no more considered as belonging exclusively to basic science, but rather should be used for providing new insights in the clinical management of patients with endocrine autoimmune diseases. ... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=590551 Wed, 02 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 590551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=576867&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17463396%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Choi JH, Wong AS, Huang HF, Leung PC Ovarian epithelial cancer (OEC) accounts for 90% of all ovarian cancers and is the leading cause of death from gynecological cancers in North America and Europe. Despite its clinical significance, the factors that regulate the development and progression of ovarian cancer are among the least understood of all major human malignancies. The two gonadotropins, follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, are key regulators of ovarian cell functions and the potential role of gonadotropins in the pathogenesis of ovarian cancer is suggested. Ovarian carcinomas have been found to express specific receptors for gonadotropins. The presence of gonadotropins in ovarian tumor fluid suggests the importance of these factors in the transformation... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=576867 Thu, 26 Apr 2007 04:00:00 +0100 576867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=544951&cid=s_33004_15_f&fid=33004&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17431228%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Schumacher M, Guennoun R, Ghoumari A, Massaad C, Robert F, El-Etr M, Akwa Y, Rajkowski K, Baulieu EE The utility and safety of postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has recently been put into question by large clinical trials. Their outcome has been extensively commented upon, but discussions have mainly been limited to the effects of estrogens. In fact, progestagens are generally only considered with respect to their usefulness in preventing estrogen stimulation of uterine hyperplasia and malignancy. In addition, various risks have been attributed to progestagens, and their omission from HRT has been considered, but this may be to underestimate their potential benefits and therapeutic promises. A major reason for the controversial reputation of progestagens is that... ENDOCR REV journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=544951 Thu, 12 Apr 2007 04:00:00 +0100 544951