Knobil and Neill's Physiology of Reproduction

4th Edition - November 15, 2014
Editors: Tony M. Plant, Anthony J. Zeleznik
Language: English
Hardback ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 1 2 - 3 9 7 1 7 5 - 3
eBook ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 1 2 - 3 9 7 7 6 9 - 4

The Fourth Edition of Knobil & Neill continues to serve as a reference aid for research, to provide the historical context to current research, and most importantly as an ai… Read more

Knobil and Neill's Physiology of Reproduction

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The Fourth Edition of Knobil & Neill continues to serve as a reference aid for research, to provide the historical context to current research, and most importantly as an aid for graduate teaching on a broad range of topics in human and comparative reproduction. In the decade since the publication of the last edition, the study of reproductive physiology has undergone monumental changes. Chief among these advances are in the areas of stem cell development, signaling pathways, the role of inflammation in the regulatory processes in the various tissues, and the integration of new animal models which have led to a greater understanding of human disease. The new edition synthesizes all of this new information at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels of organization and present modern physiology a more understandable and comparative context.

Illustration Credits
Introduction
Preface
Foreword by Roy O. Greep
Foreword by M. Susan Smith
Volume 1
- Section I. Gametes, Fertilization and Embryogenesis
  - Chapter 1. Mammalian Meiosis
    - Introduction
    - Initiation of Meiosis in Mammals
    - Prophase I
    - Chromosome Segregation at Metaphase I (MI) and Meiotic Progression
    - Disorders of Meiosis
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 2. The Mammalian Oocyte
    - Introduction
    - Cell Biology of the Oocyte
    - The Growth Phase of Oogenesis
    - Maturation Phase of Oogenesis: The Final Act
    - Clinical Parameters of Oocyte Biology
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 3. The Spermatozoon
    - Introduction
    - The Sperm Plasma Membrane
    - The Sperm Head
    - The Flagellum
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 4. Fertilization in Mammals
    - Introduction
    - Sperm Capacitation
    - Sperm–Egg Interaction
    - Sperm–Egg Plasma Membrane Interactions
    - Events Following Sperm–Egg Membrane Fusion
    - Signaling Pathways Responsible for the Events of Egg Activation
    - Conclusion
    - Addendum
  - Chapter 5. Gamete and Zygote Transport
    - Introduction
    - Sperm Transport
    - Oocyte and Embryo Transport in the Oviduct
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 6. Preimplantation Embryo Development and Primordial Germ Cell Lineage Specification
    - Introduction
    - Embryogenesis
    - Embryonic Stem Cells
    - Germ Line Development
    - Gonadal Stem Cells
    - Generation of Gametes from Pluripotent Stem Cells
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 7. Sex Determination and Differentiation
    - Introduction
    - Chromosomal Sex
    - Gonadal Sex
    - Phenotypic Sex
    - Conclusion
- Section II. Gonadal Steroids, Pituitary and Hypothalamus
  - Chapter 8. Human Steroid Biosynthesis
    - Introduction
    - General Concepts
    - The Conversion of Cholesterol to Pregnenolone and Mitochondrial Steroid Metabolism
    - Steroid Hydroxylation and the Microsomal P450 Enzymes
    - HSDs, the Terminal Steps, and Peripheral Metabolism
    - Steroid Sulfonation
    - Steroid Degradation and Excretion
    - Pathways
    - Comparison with Other Species
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 9. Gonadal Steroid Action
    - Introduction
    - Transcriptional Actions of Gonadal Steroids
    - Nontranscriptional Effectors of Gonadal Steroids
    - Steroid Signaling via Membrane Receptors
    - Coregulators and Gonadal Steroid Physiology
    - Informatic Approaches and Transcriptional Regulation by Gonadal Steroids
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 10. Gonadotropes and Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Signaling
    - Introduction
    - Gonadotropes
    - Pituitary Actions and Mechanisms of Action of GnRH
    - Autocrine and Paracrine Regulation of Gonadotropes
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 11. Physiology of the Adult Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neuronal Network
    - Introduction
    - The GnRH Neuron
    - Components of the GnRH Neuronal Network
    - Synchronization and Pulsatility
    - Heterogeneity within the GnRH Neuronal Phenotype
    - Estrous Cycle Plasticity
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 12. Hypothalamic Control of Prolactin Secretion, and the Multiple Reproductive Functions of Prolactin
    - Introduction
    - The Prolactin Receptor and Signal Transduction
    - Neuroendocrine Control of Prolactin Secretion
    - Lactotroph Function
    - Patterns of Prolactin Secretion
    - Reproductive Functions of Prolactin
    - Prolactin-Induced Adaptive Responses Contributing to Successful Reproduction
    - Reproductive Actions of Prolactin in the Male
    - Prolactin and Reproductive Disorders
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 13. Central Nervous System Control of Oxytocin Secretion during Lactation
    - Introduction
    - Milk Ejection in Response to Suckling is an Atypical Neuronal Reflex
    - The Behavior of OT Neurons during Milk Ejection—The Rat Model
    - The Afferent Pathway Mediating Milk Ejection
    - Neurotransmitters/Neuromodulators Mediating the Milk Ejection Reflex
    - Electrophysiological Properties of OT Neurons and Their Plasticity during Lactation
    - Synaptic Plasticity during Lactation
    - A Model for Milk Ejection
    - Conclusion
- Section III. Male Reproductive System
  - Chapter 14. Testicular Development
    - Introduction
    - Anatomical, Histological, and Morphometric Development
    - Control of Testis Development
    - Germ Cells
    - Testicular Development and Adult Health
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 15. Spermatogonial Stem Cells and Spermatogenesis
    - Introduction
    - Spermatogonial Stem Cells and Spermatogenic Lineage Development
    - Experimental Tools for Studying Spermatogonial Stem Cells
    - The Spermatogonial Stem Cell Niche
    - Molecular Mechanisms Governing SSC Developmental Fate
    - Spermatogonial Stem Cell Aging
    - Transgenesis
    - Regenerative Potential of Spermatogonial Stem Cells and Translation to the Clinic
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 16. Hormone Signaling in the Testis
    - Introduction
    - Luteinizing Hormone
    - Testosterone
    - Follicle-Stimulating Hormone
    - Thyroid Hormone
    - Estrogen
    - Activin and Inhibin
    - Other Hormones
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 17. The Epididymis
    - Introduction
    - Development of the Epididymis
    - Structural Organization of the Epididymis
    - Functions Taking Place in the Luminal Compartment
    - Regulation of Epididymal Functions
    - Major Protein Families in the Epididymis and Their Regulation
    - Aging
    - The Epididymis as Target for Xenobiotics
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 18. Accessory Sex Glands in the Male
    - Introduction
    - Anatomy and Histology
    - Embryology and Development
    - Function of Sex Accessory Tissues
    - Regulation of the Adult Prostate
    - Diseases of the Prostate Gland
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 19. The Immunophysiology of Male Reproduction
    - Introduction
    - Structure and Function of the Male Reproductive Tract Relevant to Immunophysiology
    - The Immune System and Its Endocrine Control
    - Immune Cells of the Male Reproductive Tract
    - Immunological and Inflammatory Mediators in the Testis
    - Effects of Immune Cells and Inflammation on Male Reproduction
    - Autoimmunity in the Male Reproductive Tract
    - Immune Privilege in the Male Reproductive Tract
    - Innate Immunity in the Male Reproductive Tract: The Response to Infections and Tumors
    - Implications, Applications, and the Next 10 Years
    - Conclusion
- Section IV. Female Reproductive System
  - Chapter 20. Gonadotropin Signaling in the Ovary
    - Introduction
    - FSH Signals Promote Follicular Maturation
    - FSH Signaling Pathways that Stimulate Granulosa Cell Differentiation and Proliferation: cAMP and PKA-dependent Signaling
    - Cross Talk among FSH-Regulated Signaling Pathways and Transcriptional Activators to Regulate Gene Expression during Granulosa Cell Differentiation
    - LH Signals that Regulate Theca Cell Functions
    - The LH Surge Promotes Oocyte Maturation, Ovulation, and Corpus Luteum Formation
    - Mechanisms by Which LH Stimulates Oocyte Maturation, Ovulation, and Luteinization
    - Molecular Basis for the Differential Regulation of Target Gene Expression by FSH in Preantral and LH in Preovulatory Granulosa Cells
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 21. Follicular Development: Mouse, Sheep, and Human Models
    - Introduction
    - Morphology of Folliculogenesis
    - Primordial Follicle Formation
    - The Primordial to Primary Follicle Transition
    - Regulation of Folliculogenesis by TGFβ Family Signaling in the Ovary
    - Transcription Factors in Preantral-stage Folliculogenesis
    - Antral Follicle Development
    - Metabolic Influences on Follicle Development
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 22. Ovulation
    - Introduction
    - Ovulation: A Performance Played by Many Actors
    - Setting the Stage: Granulosa Cell Functions in Preovulatory Follicles
    - On-Stage Act I: Linking the LH Receptor to Other Signaling Pathways in Granulosa Cells
    - On-Stage Act II: Signal Connections between Granulosa Cells and the Cumulus Cell–Oocyte Complex during Ovulation
    - On-Stage Act III: The Oocyte Reigns at Center Stage
    - On-Stage Act IV: Key Transcription Factors That Impact Ovulation
    - On Stage Act V: Key Proteases in Ovulation
    - On Stage Act VI: Cumulus Cells Have Immune-Like Functions and a Distinct Fate
    - Off-Stage and Behind the Scenes: Follicle Atresia and Granulosa Cell Apoptosis
    - Translational Clinical Considerations
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 23. Structure, Function, and Regulation of the Corpus Luteum
    - Introduction
    - Classification of Types of Corpora Lutea
    - Luteinization
    - Luteolysis
    - Regulation of Luteal Structure and Function
    - Luteal Cell Types and Their Regulation
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 24. Human Oviduct and Endometrium: Changes over the Menstrual Cycle
    - Introduction
    - Anatomy, Embryology, and Histology: An Overview
    - Oviduct
    - Endometrium
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 25. Steroid Receptors in the Uterus and Ovary
    - Introduction
    - The Steroid Receptors
    - Sex Steroid Receptors in Uterine Function
    - Sex Steroid Receptors and Ovarian Function
    - Summary
    - Conclusion
Volume 2
- Section V. Physiological Control Systems and Governing Gonadal Function
  - Chapter 26. Neuroendocrine Control of the Ovarian Cycle of the Rat
    - Introduction
    - Overview of the Estrous Cycle
    - Ovarian Events during the Estrous Cycle
    - Patterns of Pituitary Hormone SecretIon and mRNA Levels during the Estrous Cycle
    - Neural Events during the Estrous Cycle
    - Control of Pituitary Hormone Secretion
    - Regulation of the Corpus Luteum
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 27. Control of the Ovarian Cycle of the Sheep
    - Introduction
    - Description of the Ovine Estrous Cycle
    - Analysis of the Ovine Estrous Cycle
    - Resynthesis: A Model for the Ovine Estrous Cycle
    - Seasonal Control of Ovarian Cyclicity in the Ewe
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 28. Control of the Menstrual Cycle
    - Introduction
    - Overview of the Menstrual Cycle
    - Folliculogenesis
    - Selection of the Preovulatory Follicle
    - Ovulation
    - Corpus Luteum Formation and Function
    - Maternal Recognition of Pregnancy
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 29. Pathophysiology of Ovarian Function in the Human Female
    - Introduction
    - Physiology of Human Ovarian Function
    - Disorders of Ovulation
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 30. Puberty in Mice and Rats
    - Introduction
    - Rats and Mice as Models
    - Puberty and Development
    - Modulatory Influences Regulating the Timing of Puberty
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 31. Puberty in the Sheep
    - Introduction
    - Neuroendocrine Sequence during the Transition into Adulthood
    - Determinants Timing the Transition into Adulthood: The Core Issue
    - Sex Differences in Timing the Transition into Adulthood
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 32. Puberty in Non-human Primates and Man
    - Introduction
    - Gonadal and Adrenal Function during Puberty
    - Pubertal Staging
    - Secular Trends
    - Pituitary Gonadotrope Function during Puberty
    - Neuroendocrine Control of Gonadotropin Secretion in the Adult
    - Developmental Pattern of Gonadotropin Secretion
    - Gonadal Independence of the Postnatal Switches and the Hypogonadotropic State of Juvenile Development
    - Neurobiological Bases of the Juvenile Hiatus in Pulsatile GnRH Release and Initiation of Puberty
    - Theoretical Physiological Controls Governing the Duration of the Prepubertal Hiatus in GnRH Secretion
    - Genetics, Epigenetics and Puberty Genes
    - Fetal Programming and the Onset of Puberty
    - Exteroceptive Cues and the Timing of Puberty
    - Disorders of Pubertal Development
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 33. Neuroendocrine Control of Gonadotropin Secretion: Comparative Aspects
    - Introduction
    - Historical Development of Concepts for Feedback Control of Gonadotropin Secretion
    - Modifications in the Model: Species Differences in Gonadal Feedback
    - Neuroendocrine Systems Mediating Steroid Feedback
    - Physiological Disruptions of Reproductive Function
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 34. Seasonal Regulation of Reproduction in Mammals
    - Introduction
    - Ecological Context for Seasonal Breeding: Ultimate Factors and Proximate Cues
    - Role of the Pineal Hormone Melatonin in Mammalian Seasonal Breeding
    - Melatonin Receptors and Sites of Action
    - Identifying Functionally Important Sites of Melatonin Action
    - The PT and Thyroid Hormone-Dependent Control of Seasonal Breeding
    - Hypothalamic Neural Pathways Involved in Neuroendocrine Control of Seasonal Breeding—The Role of RF-Amide Signaling Pathways
    - Hypotheses Linking Hypothalamic T3 Content to Hypothalamic Neural Changes Driving Seasonal Breeding: A Pivotal Role for Tanycytes?
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 35. Physiological Mechanisms for the Metabolic Control of Reproduction
    - Introduction
    - Metabolic Hormones Regulate Reproduction: Roles of Leptin, Insulin, and Ghrelin
    - Metabolic Targeting of GnRH Neurons: Direct Actions and Indirect Pathways
    - Kiss1 Neurons as Central Relays of Metabolic Information: Expression and Functional Studies
    - Leptin Signaling and Kiss1 Neurons: Direct, Indirect, or Independent Effects?
    - Other Products of Kiss1 Neurons in the Metabolic Control of Reproduction: The Role of KNDy Neuropeptides
    - Other Central Transmitters in the Metabolic Control of Reproduction
    - Molecular Mediators for the Central Control of the HPG Axis by Metabolic Signals
    - Reproductive Effects of Metabolic Hormones outside the Brain: Pituitary and Gonadal Actions
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 36. Stress and the Reproductive System
    - Introduction
    - The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis
    - Stress and the Reproductive System
    - Stress and the Female Reproductive Cycle
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 37. Aging and Reproduction
    - Introduction
    - Female Reproductive Aging
    - Male Reproductive Aging
    - Conclusion
- Section VI. Pregnancy and Lactation
  - Chapter 38. Embryo Implantation
    - Introduction
    - Physiological and Morphological Aspects of Embryo–Uterine Interactions
    - Delayed Implantation (Mammalian Diapause)
    - Molecular Aspects of Embryo–Uterine Interactions
    - Adverse Ripple Effects Arising from Early-Pregnancy Events
    - Future Directions: Evolving Technologies and Discoveries
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 39. Placenta and Placental Transport Function
    - Introduction
    - Comparative Placentation
    - Human Placental Morphology
    - Human Placental Development
    - Methods to Study Placental Transport Functions
    - Basic Concepts in Maternal–Fetal Exchange
    - Placental Transport of Specific Molecules
    - Placental Transport in Complications of Pregnancy
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 40. Placental Endocrine Function and Hormone Action
    - Introduction
    - Protein Hormones of the Placenta
    - Steroid Hormones of the Placenta
    - Placental Hypothalamic-like Neuropeptide and Peptide Hormones
    - Adipokines
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 41. Immunology of Pregnancy
    - Introduction
    - Immunological Features of the Nonpregnant Uterus
    - Immunology of Embryo Implantation
    - Genetic Disparity and the Immunological Paradox of Pregnancy
    - Immunology of Pregnancy: The Maternal Contribution
    - Immunology of Pregnancy: The Fetal Contribution
    - Immunological Origins of Pregnancy Disorders
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 42. Parturition
    - Introduction
    - Human Evolution and Birth Timing
    - The Gravid Uterus
    - The Hormonal Regulation of Parturition
    - Pathophysiology of Human Parturition
    - Clinical Control of Parturition: Tocolytics and Induction of Labor
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 43. Maternal Adaptations to Pregnancy
    - Introduction
    - Metabolic Adaptations
    - Cardiovascular Adaptations
    - Respiratory System Adaptations
    - Renal Adaptations
    - Pharmacokinetics of Pregnancy
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 44. Maternal Brain Adaptations in Pregnancy
    - Introduction
    - Osmoregulation in Pregnancy
    - Food Intake and Metabolism in Pregnancy
    - The Prolactin System: Preparation for Lactation
    - The Hypothalamo–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis
    - Magnocellular Oxytocin Neuron System in Pregnancy
    - Cognition during Pregnancy
    - Maternal Behavior
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 45. Fetal Epigenetic Origins of Disease
    - Introduction
    - Epigenetics
    - The Epigenetics of Fertilization
    - Imprinting
    - Imprinting Disorders
    - Imprinting Disorders and ART
    - The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease: Maternal Constraints
    - The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease: Paternal Constraints
    - Areas of Emerging Interest
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 46. Lactation and its Hormonal Control
    - Introduction
    - Developmental Aspects of Milk Secretion
    - Cell–Cell Interactions in the Mammary Epithelium
    - Milk Composition and its Regulation
    - Meeting the Energy Requirements of Lactation
    - Milk Ejection
    - Conclusion
- Section VII. Reproductive Behavior and its Control
  - Chapter 47. Sexual Differentiation of Brain and Behavior
    - Introduction
    - A Brief History and Definition of Terms
    - Agents of Sexual Differentiation
    - The Role of Sex Chromosomes
    - Effects of Gonadal Hormones: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms
    - Critical Periods
    - Sexual Differentiation in Different Contexts
    - The Relationship between Structure and Function
    - The Role of Hormones and Other Biological Factors in Sexual Differentiation of Human Behavior
    - What Will the Future Bring?
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 48. Mate Selection, Sexual Orientation, and Pair Bonding
    - Introduction
    - Evolutionary Significance of Mate Choice
    - Mate Choice and Mating Strategies
    - Different Facets of Mate Choice
    - Species Specificity in Mate Selection
    - Sexual Partner Preference and Sexual Orientation
    - Specific Individual Features Influencing Mate Choice
    - Pair Bonding
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 49. Male Sexual Behavior
    - Introduction
    - Patterns of Sexual Behavior of Male Mammals
    - Measures of Penile Function
    - The Role of the Penis in Male Sexual Behavior
    - Principles of Hormone Action
    - Activation of Male Sexual Behavior by Gonadal Hormones
    - Effects of Systemically or Intracerebroventricularly Administered Drugs
    - Brain Areas Implicated in Control of Male Sexual Behavior
    - Central Integrative Areas
    - Major Motor Outputs
    - Circuitry and Anatomical Interconnections
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 50. Female Sexual Behavior
    - Introduction
    - Commonalities, Homologies, Analogies, and Models
    - Anatomy and Physiology of Sexual Sensory Systems
    - Hormonal Priming and Control
    - Neural Organization
    - Consequences of Sexual Stimulation
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 51. Parenting Behavior
    - Introduction
    - Components of Parental Care
    - Considerations for Understanding the Hormonal Regulation of Maternal Care
    - Hormones Most Significant for the Onset of Maternal Behavior in Rodents, Sheep, and Humans
    - Hormones Most Significant for Paternal Behaviors
    - Sensory Control of Maternal Care
    - Brain Control of Maternal Behaviors
    - Brain Control of Paternal Behaviors
    - Conclusion
  - Chapter 52. Epigenetics of Reproduction
    - Introduction
    - Other Epigenetic Mechanisms
    - Epigenetics and the Physiology of Reproduction
    - Methods in Epigenetics
    - Conclusion
Index
Color Plates
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Tony M. Plant

Dr. Tony M. Plant studied for his PhD with Dr. Richard P. Michael in London and completed his postdoctoral training with Dr. Ernst Knobil in Pittsburgh in 1978. Since then, his research has been continuously funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study non-human primate models in order to better understand human reproduction. Dr. Plant has been particularly interested in the neurobiology of puberty onset, the neuroendocrine control of the menstrual cycle and testis, the endocrine control of spermatogenesis and, most recently, in the cell and molecular biology underlying spermatogonial differentiation. From 1985 until 2013 he served as Director of a multi-investigator, NIH-funded Center to study the physiology of reproduction, and he served as President of the International Neuroendocrine Federation (INF) from 2007-2010. He is a Foreign Fellow of the Pakistan Academy of Sciences and an honorary member of the Polish Neuroendocrine Society. Dr. Plant is also the recipient of the INF 2014 Geoffrey Harris Lecture.

Affiliations and expertise

Professor, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Physiology Director, Center for Research in Reproductive Physiology (CRRP), Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Anthony J. Zeleznik

Dr. Anthony J. Zeleznik received his PhD in Physiology from the University of Michigan in 1975. His doctoral work, conducted under the direction of Dr. A. Rees Midgley, Jr., was the first to document that a principal action of follicle stimulating hormone in the ovary was to induce LH receptors on granulosa cells, an action that enables the follicle to ovulate and luteinize in response to LH. Following the completion of postdoctoral work under the direction of Drs. Jesse Roth and Griff Ross at the National Institutes of Health, Dr. Zeleznik joined the Department of Physiology at the University of Pittsburgh in 1978, where he began a systematic investigation on the physiological and cellular control mechanisms that govern the menstrual cycle in higher primates. Dr. Zeleznik served on the Editorial Boards of Endocrinology, Biology of Reproduction, The American Journal of Physiology and the Journal of Endocrinology, as well as having been appointed as a member of three NIH Study Sections.

Affiliations and expertise

Professor, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Life Sciences

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