How does the brain regulate sexual behavior, or control our body weight? How do we cope with stress? Addressing these questions and many more besides, this thoroughly revised new edition reflects the significant advances that have been made in the study of neuroendocrinology over the last twenty years. The text examines the importance of the hypothalamus in regulating hormone secretion from the endocrine glands, describing novel sites of hormone release including bone, heart, skeletal muscle and liver. The role of steroid hormone, neurotransmitter and peptide receptors, and the molecular responses of target tissues, is integrated into the discussion of the neuroendocrine brain, especially through changes in gene expression. Particular attention is attached to neuropeptides, including their profound influence on behavior. Complete with new full-color figures throughout, along with review and essay questions for each chapter, this is an ideal resource for undergraduate and graduate students of neuroscience, psychology, biology and physiology.

'This is an up to date, lucidly written and beautifully illustrated textbook which goes far beyond what one would consider ‘classic neuroendocrinology’ of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. It has a comprehensive overview of the entire endocrine system including hormones secreted by fat, muscle, bone and liver and an excellent chapter on the nervous system, neurotransmitters and their receptors. There is also full coverage of hormone synthesis, transport and how they act on target cells, covering all hormones of the endocrine system. … There are excellent chapter summaries, references and assessment questions both for students and teachers. The beautifully designed figures, all in full colour with comprehensive legends, succinctly summarise many aspects of the text or illustrate scientific data. Numerous tables provide reference summaries. It is a must for all undergraduates and graduate students interested in range of scientific disciplines.'

Saffron Whitehead - St George’s Hospital Medical School, University of London