BMS 430 -- Endocrinology

Course Description: Physiology of the glands of internal secretion.

Course Objectives: Physiology and pathophysiology of the endocrine system as it affects development, growth, metabolism and reproduction. Other topics discussed include mechanisms of hormone action and hormone chemistry.

Prerequisites: BMS 300

Format: 3 credits - 3 hours of lecture per week

Semesters Offered: Fall

Coordinator: J. Graham

Text: Hormones, 2nd ed., (1997), Norman and Litwack

Course Outline:

Weeks 1- 5: Introduction - Overview of Endocrinology

• Basic Endocrine Concepts
• Anatomy of the Endocrine System
• Synthesis and Secretion of Hormones
• Mechanism of Action: Proteins
• Mechanism of Action: Steroids
• Quantification of Hormones: Bioassay, RIA and Elisa
• Neuroendocrinology: Posterior Pituitary
• Anterior Pituitary
• Intermediate Pituitary

Weeks 6-9: Metabolic Endocrinology

• Perspectives and Overview
• Thyroid Gland
• Parathyroid: Calcium Homeostasis
• Growth Hormone: Somatomedin
• Gastrointestinal Hormones
• Pancreatic Hormones
• Endocrine Regulation of Glucose Metabolism
• Adrenal Medulla: Biogenic Amines
• Adrenal Cortical Hormones
• Endocrine Regulation of Lipid Metabolism
• Endocrine Regulation of Water, Mineral and Electrolytes
• Renin-Angiotensin and Regulation of Blood Pressure

Weeks 10-15: Reproductive Endocrinology

• Perspectives and Overview
• Female Reproductive Cycles
• Endocrine Changes During Pregnancy
• Parturition and Postpartum Endocrinology
• Regulation of Lactation
• Testicular Endocrinology
• Endocrine Changes at Puberty
• Hormones and Sexual Behavior
• Seasonal Breeders: Effects of Photoperiod & Other Factors
• Applied Reproductive Endocrinology

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