Hormones and Reality: Epigenetic Regulation of the Endocrine System

The cellular-molecular approach to evolution has led to a new understanding of biologic principles, including epigenetic inheritance. The endocrine system is now recognized as being under the auspices of epigenetic inheritance, and specific behaviors over the life cycle can be understood mechanistically. This book presents a cellular-evolutionary perspective towards the relationship of the organism with its surroundings, making biology and medicine a continuum.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 153 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The cellular-molecular approach to evolution has brought about significant advancements in our understanding of biologic principles, spanning from the cell to the life cycle, development, homeostasis, senescence/aging, heterochrony, pleiotropy, phenotype, and even the purpose of life itself. This revolutionary way of thinking about biology and medicine has its roots in experimental evidence for epigenetic inheritance. It prompts us to question whether our unicellular state truly represents the primary level of selection.

One system that has emerged as being intricately linked to epigenetic inheritance is the endocrine system, traditionally believed to oversee physiologic homeostasis. However, the sex hormones, due to their pivotal role in behaviors related to epigenetic data acquisition and processing by the gonads during meiosis, have become amenable to study in the context of organism evolution. By understanding the composite of activities throughout an organism's lifetime, orchestrated by hormones from prenatal development to aging, we can gain a causal understanding of how specific behaviors unfold. This perspective shifts our perspective from mere milestones in life stages to mechanistic explanations.

With these considerations in mind, this book presents a cellular-evolutionary perspective on the relationship between organisms and their surroundings, encompassing both human and non-human entities. It weaves together biology and medicine, creating a seamless continuum rather than a fragmented collection of unrelated anecdotes. By embracing this holistic approach, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and interconnectedness of life, paving the way for new discoveries and advancements in the fields of medicine and biology.

Weight: 267g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030936938
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022