Vasopressin and Oxytocin: From Genes to Clinical Applications

The neurohypophysial hormones vasopressin and oxytocin are involved in body fluid homeostasis and in reproductive function. This book presents a large variety of review articles on genetic control and molecular processing of the hormones and their receptors, regulatory mechanisms of the activity of vasopressin and oxytocin neurons, and on physiological functions of peripheral targets such as the kidney, cardio-vascular system, mammary gland and uterus. Providing both basic and clinical aspects, with emphasis on pathophysiological aspects, this book is an invaluable resource to specialized researchers as well as readers unfamiliar with the field.