Endocrinology 1997-1998

Overview

The author presents an account on advances in endocrinology in 1997-1998, starting by mentioning the Nobelprize for physiology and medicine in 1998 and the discovery of nitric oxide as an active substance. Subsequentlythe author discusses data on „new gerontology“, i.e. hormonal aspects of the menopause, andropause, adrenopauseand somatopause. Endocrinological contributions to oncology pertain in particular to the discovery of activesubstances which inhibit neovascularization (endostatins) and some new aspects of the action of antioestrogens andoestrogens. The possible action of hormonal factors in neurodegenerative processes are obvious in ubiquitine, CREBand „heat shock proteins“. New types of Ca-channels were detected, in particular „promiscuous“ channels, conveyingCa as well as Na, which can be influenced by endogenous ouabain. Subsequently attention is paid to ryanodinereceptors and compounds acting as Ca on the sensor for Ca in the parathyroid bodies and inhibition parathormonesecretion. The greatest future advances will be achieved obviously in the sphere of oncology, gerontology andhormonal analogues with unforeseen effects.

Key words:
endocrinology.