THE GNRH NEURON AND ITS CONTROL

• Part 1: Historical Introduction to the GnRH neuron
1. The framework upon which current research on the GnRH neuron and its control is built.
• Part 2: GnRH neuron development
2. Prenatal Development of GnRH neurons.
3. Fetal/perinatal programming causing sexual dimorphism of the kisspeptin-GnRH neuronal network.
4. Postnatal development of GnRH neuronal function.
• Part 3: GnRH neuron biology
5. Regulation of GnRH Gene Expression
6. Morphology of the adult GnRH neuron.
7. The anatomy of the GnRH neuron network in the human.
8. Electrophysiology of Rodent GnRH Neurons.
9. Anatomy and Physiology of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Neurons and their Control of Pituitary Function in Fish
• Part 4: Regulation of GnRH neuron function
10. Unveiling the importance of glia and vascular endothelial cells in the control of GnRH neuronal function.
11. Genetic strategies examining kisspeptin regulation of GnRH neurons.
12. KNDy Hypothesis for Generation of GnRH Pulses: Evidence from Sheep and Goats.
13. Generation of the gonadotropin releasing hormone surge and the luteinizing hormone surge, by the positive feedback effect of estrogen.
14. Influence of stress on the GnRH neuronal network.
15. Metabolic regulation of the GnRH neurons.
16. Seasonal Control of the GnRH Neuronal Network as a Means of Uncovering Novel Central Mechanisms Governing Mammalian Reproduction.
• Part 5: GnRH in the clinic
17. Human Genetics of GnRH Neuron Function.
18. Modulators of GnRH secretion and therapeutic applications.

The GnRH Neuron and its Control examines the developmental biology of GnRH neurons including their birth in the nasal placode of the early embryo, perinatal programming, and sexual differentiation, in addition to the hypothalamic mechanisms that control GnRH neurons in adulthood to generate pulsatile and surge modes of GnRH secretion throughout the major life stages including aging. The morphology, electrophysiology, signal transduction pathways, transcriptional regulators, and genomics underlying function of the adult GnRH neuron is discussed in detail, as is the neuroendocrinology and cell biology governing the generation of both modes of GnRH release.
The book also reviews the neurobiological mechanisms and circuitry responsible for the modulation of the activity of GnRH neurons by season, stress, nutrition, and metabolism, and covers the current and potential therapeutic approaches to regulating GnRH secretion and action. Filled with newly identified research and classical fundamental knowledge to GnRH biology, it will provide students, researchers, and practitioners with an in-depth understanding of reproductive neuroendocrinology.
This is the fifth volume in the Masterclass in Neuroendocrinology Series, a co- publication between Wiley and the INF (International Neuroendocrine Federation) that aims to illustrate highest standards and encourage the use of the latest technologies in basic and clinical research and hopes to provide inspiration for further exploration into the exciting field of neuroendocrinology.

Authors
• Allan E. Herbison, University of Otago, New Zealand.
• Tony M. Plant, University of Pittsburgh, USA.