Author: Juan Bernal

Thyroid and Brain: Understanding the Actions of Thyroid Hormones in Brain Development and Function

eBook: US $59 Special Offer (PDF + Printed Copy): US $101
Printed Copy: US $71
Library License: US $236
ISBN: 978-981-5274-23-3 (Print)
ISBN: 978-981-5274-22-6 (Online)
Year of Publication: 2024
DOI: 10.2174/97898152742261240101

Introduction

This comprehensive textbook offers an in-depth exploration of how thyroid hormones influence brain development and function, particularly on cellular and molecular mechanisms. Readers will find current insights into the complex interplay between the thyroid and neurological systems, making it a valuable resource for researchers, advanced learners and clinicians in the fields of endocrinology, neuroscience, and developmental biology.

The book starts with a review of thyroid physiology, setting the stage for subsequent chapters that cover specific topics such as the impact of maternal thyroid hormones on fetal brain development and the effects of iodine deficiency. From here, the book progresses to cover the regulation of brain gene expression, neuronal and glial cell differentiation, and myelination by thyroid hormones, and how thyroid hormones shape the brain. Finally, the book addresses the link between thyroid dysfunction and mood disorders.

Key features

  • - A thorough examination of the historical and the latest research findings through 14 chapters
  • - Clear explanations of molecular pathways
  • - Emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical applications
  • - Detailed and research-focused content scientific references for further reading

This textbook is an essential resource for pharmacy students, specialist assistants, and anyone pursuing a career in clinical pharmacy.

Readership

Medical students, residents, researchers (neuroscience and developmental biology), and healthcare professionals (neurologists and endocrinologists) who need to understand the regulation of brain development by thyroid hormones and the treatment of thyroid-related neurological conditions.


Preface

Thyroid hormones play a pivotal role in orchestrating a myriad of biological and physiological functions. These encompass the regulation of vertebrate growth and development, amphibian metamorphosis, circadian rhythms, photoperiod, metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, and crucially, brain development and function. The mechanism through which these effects are predominantly mediated involves T3 binding to nuclear receptors, serving as ligand-regulated transcription factors.

Among the myriad actions of thyroid hormones, one of paramount importance is their profound influence on brain development and function. Thyroid hormones intricately regulate processes such as neurogenesis and gliogenesis and the migration, differentiation, and synaptogenesis of neuronal and glial cells. Notably, a deficiency in thyroid hormones during development, or disruption of the mechanisms of thyroid hormone action, results in severe neurological impairment and intellectual retardation. In the adult human brain, thyroid disorders may manifest as psychiatric disturbances. The intricate interplay of thyroid hormones in these processes underscores their indispensable role in maintaining optimal neurological function throughout the lifespan.

This book represents a comprehensive endeavor to distill the wealth of information accumulated over the past five decades into a single volume. The field has witnessed a remarkable acceleration, propelled by groundbreaking advances in cellular and molecular neurobiology, facilitated by breakthroughs in molecular genetics and transcriptomics methodologies. Though many questions remain unanswered, the convergence of these advancements has ushered in a new era of understanding, providing a solid foundation for the exploration and elucidation of intricate neurological processes and, in particular, the action of thyroid hormones in the brain.

Juan Bernal
Sols-Morreale Institute for Biomedical Research
Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas
Madrid, Spain

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