Zoology
Vertebrate Endocrinology
By Dr. Priyanka Kumari, Dr. Ruchi Sharma, Edited by Danielle Foster
Vertebrate endocrinology is the branch of biology that studies the endocrine systems of animals with backbones, focusing on how hormones regulate physiological processes. Hormones are chemical messengers secreted by endocrine glands, such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, and gonads, and they control essential body functions like growth, metabolism, reproduction, stress response, and homeostasis. In vertebrates, the hypothalamus and pituitary gland serve as the master regulators, coordinating signals between the nervous system and peripheral endocrine organs. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism and development, while the adrenal glands handle stress responses through corticosteroids and catecholamines. The pancreas plays a critical role in glucose balance through insulin and glucagon. Gonadal hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone control sexual differentiation, reproduction, and secondary sex characteristics. Beyond individual gland function, vertebrate endocrinology also explores how hormones interact, how they evolved across species, and how environmental factors like light, temperature, and stress impact hormonal regulation. Modern research in this field includes studying endocrine-disrupting chemicals, evolutionary endocrinology, and the role of hormones in diseases like diabetes, obesity, and reproductive disorders. Understanding vertebrate endocrinology is crucial for both basic biological knowledge and developing medical and veterinary treatments that improve health and well-being in humans and animals alike. Vertebrate Endocrinology provides an in-depth exploration of the hormonal systems that regulate physiology, development, and behavior in vertebrate animals. Contents: 1. Introduction to Endocrinology, 2. General Characteristics of Vertebrates, 3. Synthesis and Secretion of Thyroid Hormones, 4. Vertebrate Glands, 5. Glandular Systems and Hormones in Behaviour, 6. Adrenal Gland, 7. Use of Hormones in Animal Production, 8. Endocrine, Paracrine and Autocrine Regulation of Gametogenesis, 9. Vertebrates Zoology.
About the Authors
Dr. Priyanka Kumari is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Zoology at Dhanouri PG College, Dhanauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand. She holds a Ph.D. in Zoology, with her research focused on "Photobiological Studies on Fish Barilius bendelisis in the Presence of Selected Photosensitizers." Her academic and research interests include fisheries science, environmental toxicology, biodiversity conservation, and photobiology, showcasing her multidisciplinary expertise in life sciences. Dr. Kumari has published more than 14 research papers in reputed national and international journals and has presented her work at various academic forums across India and abroad. Her commitment to scientific research and environmental sustainability reflects in both her teaching and fieldwork. She is actively involved in mentoring students and contributing to the scientific community through ongoing research and collaborative initiatives. Her work aims to bridge academic knowledge with ecological conservation, making her a valuable asset to the academic and research landscape. Dr. Ruchi Sharma is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Zoology at Dhanauri PG College, Dhanauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand. She holds a Ph.D. in Zoology, with her doctoral research focused on Investigations on Helminth Parasites of Freshwater Fish Fauna of Muzaffarnagar (with special reference to the morphological and ecological aspects). Her academic interests include parasitology, fish biology, aquatic ecology, and environmental studies. Dr. Sharma's research offers critical insights into the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of freshwater ecosystems, particularly concerning parasitic infestations and their effects on fish health. She has published 16 research papers in reputed national and international journals and is actively involved in guiding students in zoological studies. With a strong commitment to both fieldwork and laboratory analysis, she contributes significantly to aquatic parasitology. Dr. Sharma also regularly participates in academic seminars and workshops, further strengthening her profile in higher education and scientific research.