αKlotho and fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23) were discovered independently about 20 years ago. Since their initial description, a series of exciting discoveries have revealed the important role of endocrine and paracrine FGF23 and αKlotho signaling not only for the physiological regulation of mineral and bone homeostasis, but also for the pathophysiology of diseases such as chronic kidney disease, left ventricular hypertrophy, myocardial infarction, hypertension, and disorders characterized by impaired bone mineralization. The 11 articles compiled in this Research Topic consist of three Original Research articles and 8 Reviews or Mini Reviews, and are an excellent source of information about the state of the art in the FGF23/αKlotho field, covering almost all aspects of FGF23/αKlotho biology.

Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 describes how FGF23 was initially identified as a bone-derived factor targeting the kidney. As such, sections in this comprehensive book cover exciting research that shows that different FGF23 effects require distinct signaling receptors and mediators that differ among target tissues, cover FGF23 initially identified as a bone-derived factor targeting the kidney, look at FGF23 as a regulator of phosphate metabolism and beyond, and cover research on novel concepts of FGF receptor signaling. Additional sections cover biochemistry, pharmacology and nephrology, making this book an ideal reference source on FGF23. - Provides a comprehensive collection of chapters on the diversity of FGF23's actions - Highlights truly translational topics, from molecular signaling to physiology and mechanism of disease, discussing cell culture and animal models to study FGF23 - Describes FGF23's potential in the clinical setting as a biomarker or even drug target - Presents leaders in the field who cover a wide spectrum of research backgrounds and expertise, including clinical and basic scientists who specialize in diseases, endocrinology, genetics, protein biochemistry, cell biology and physiology

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) have been recognized primarily as autocrine/paracrine factors that regulate embryonic development and organogenesis. However, recent studies have revealed that some FGFs function as endocrine factors and regulate various metabolic processes in adulthood. Such FGFs, collectively called endocrine FGFs, are comprised of three members (FGF15/19, FGF21, and FGF23: FGF15 is the mouse ortholog of human FGF19). These endocrine FGFs share a common structural feature that enables the endocrine mode of action at the expense of the affinity to FGF receptors. To restore the affinity to FGF receptors in their target organs, the endocrine FGFs have designated the Klotho family of transmembrane proteins as obligate co-receptors. By expressing Klothos in a tissue-specific manner, this unique co-receptor system also enables the endocrine FGFs to specify their target organs among many tissues that express FGF receptors.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Clifford J. Rosen, M.D., Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, Maine SENIOR ASSOCIATE EDITORS: Juliet E. Compston, M.D., FRCP, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, United Kingdom Jane B. Lian, Ph.D., University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts This comprehensive yet concise handbook is an indispensable reference for the many clinicians who see patients with disorders of bone formation, metabolic bone diseases, or disorders of stone formation. It is also a crucial tool for researchers, students, and all other professionals working in the bone field. In a format designed for quick reference, it provides complete information on the symptoms, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of all common and rare bone and mineral disorders. New in this edition: detailed coverage of osteonecrosis of the jaw, more in-depth coverage of cancer and bone including new approaches to pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment; new approaches to anabolic therapy of osteoporosis; the latest research on Vitamin D; expanded coverage of international topics; more on the genetics of bone mass; and newer imaging techniques for the skeleton. In addition, this edition features a free, online-only appendix of medicines used to treat bone disorders and their availability around the world.

We present to our readers the proceedings of the Second International Workshop on Phosphate. A short account of the history of the effort led to the Phosphate Workshops is appro priate and can be of interest to the reader. The idea for Phosphate Workshops was born in the early days of November, 1974. One of us (S. G. M. ) suggested the thought to a group of scientists gathered for a luncheon in one of the attrac tive small restaurants in Weisbaden, Germany. The purpose of the workshop was to bring together interested scientists to discuss the newer developments and the recent advances in the field of phosphate metabolism and the other related minerals. An Organizing Committee made of Shaul G. Massry (USA), Louis V. Avioli (USA), Philippe Bordier (France), Herbert Fleisch (Switzerland), and Eduardo Slatopolsky (USA) was formed. The First Workshop was held in Paris during June 5-6, 1975 and was hosted by Dr. Philippe Bordier. Its proceeding was already published. The Second Workshop took place in Heidelberg during June 28-30, 1976 and was hosted by Dr. Eberhard Ritz. Both of these workshops were extremely successful scientific endeavors, and the need for them was demonstrated by the great interest they generated among the scientific community. The Or ganizing Committee, therefore, decided to continue with the tradi tion to hold additional Workshops annually or every other year.

Here is an extensive update of Pediatric Nephrology, which has become the standard reference text in the field. It is global in perspective and reflects the international group of editors, who are well-recognized experts in pediatric nephrology. Within this text, the development of kidney structure and function is followed by detailed and comprehensive chapters on all childhood kidney diseases.

Nutrition in the Prevention and Treatment of Abdominal Obesity focuses on the important roles that exercise, dietary changes, and foods play in promoting as well as reducing visceral fat. Nutritionists, dieticians, and healthcare providers seeking to address the abdominal obesity epidemic will use this comprehensive resource as a tool in their long-term goal of preventing chronic diseases, especially heart, vascular, and diabetic diseases. Experts from a broad range of disciplines are involved in dealing with the consequences of excessive abdominal fat: cardiology, diabetes research, studies of lipids, endocrinology and metabolism, nutrition, obesity, and exercise physiology. They have contributed chapters that define a range of dietary approaches to reducing risk and associated chronic diseases. They begin by defining visceral obesity and its major outcomes; they also discuss the importance and the challenges of dietary approaches to reduce abdominal obesity, as compared to clinical approaches, with major costs and risks. - Offers detailed, well-documented reviews outlining the various dietary approaches to visceral obesity with their benefits and failures - Includes chapters on types of foods, exercise, and supplements in reducing obesity and its chronic clinical companions, especially diabetes and cardiovascular disease - Helps nutritionists, dieticians, and healthcare providers approach patients in making decision about nutritional therapies and clinical treatments for abdominal obesity, from an evidence-based perspective

Oxford Desk Reference: Endocrinology provides easy access to evidence-based materials for quick consultation but also provides an in-depth expert reference for clinical practice. It covers the process of diagnosis, investigation, and management, as well as information for patients. Internationally-renowned experts have brought together evidence, guidelines and their clinical expertise to put trustworthy support at your fingertips. The vast spectrum of endocrine disorders are clearly laid out in self-contained topics for easy reference. Chapters build bridges between pathogenesis, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis and investigation to aid understanding. Careful consideration is given to establishing a diagnosis including the recognition, investigation and management of the rarer diagnoses. The practical treatment of everyday endocrine disorders and the management of life-long conditions are outlined in clear protocols. Chapters are organised by endocrine glands, disorders and syndromes and there are sections on the involvement of hormones in other specialities including endocrine oncology. The continuity from childhood to adolescent and adult endocrinology as well as the needs of older patients is explored in specific sections. Dedicated chapters cover the important roles endocrine specialist nurses play in patient management, and dietetic advice. The editors have included a wealth of practical resources including: · A speedy reference section, which provides summaries and quick direction · A patient advice and reference section, which supports face-to-face discussion with patients · A medicolegal chapter, which outlines risk and DVLA regulations Oxford Desk Reference: Endocrinology is the ideal companion for consultants, registrars associate specialists and clinical assistants as well as those from other disciplines who share endocrine clinics including endocrine surgeons, oncologists, gynaecologists and paediatricians.

Hypoparathyroidism, a condition in which insufficient parathyroid hormone (PTH) is produced to maintain normocalcemia is associated with a variety of acute and chronic symptoms and complications due to hypocalcemia. Replacement therapy utilizing PTH has long been awaited, and this book is new and very timely as it coincides with the publication of results on the role of the PTH molecule in the pharmacological management of this disorder. This advance is sparking renewed interest in hypoparathyroidism, which is attributable to neck surgery in most cases and to inherited disorders in a minority. Hypoparathyroidism has been written by acknowledged experts in the field and provides essential, up-to-date information on the pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of the condition. It opens by addressing in detail the anatomy and physiology of the parathyroids and describing the epidemiology and clinical presentation of hypoparathyroidism. The full range of hypoparathyroid disorders are then discussed, including the various genetic forms, postoperative hypoparathyroidism, and other forms of acquired hypoparathyroidism. Individual chapters focus on refractory disease, the impact of the condition on bone, and the management of acute hypocalcemia. Both conventional treatment for hypoparathyroidism and the novel replacement therapy with PTH peptides are then thoroughly examined. Pseudohypoparathyroidism is also extensively discussed, with information on the various forms, differential diagnosis, and genetic testing. This book will be of interest to all endocrinologists, and also to surgeons and internal medicine physicians.