Endocrinology Science Reference Hormones: Physiology, Chemistry, and Application: Volume IV Edited by Gregory Pincus 1964

Gregory Pincus

First Edition

Pincus, Gregory; Thimann, K. V.; Astwood, E. B., eds. The Hormones: Physiology, Chemistry, and Applications. Volume IV (1964) is a substantial scientific reference work produced during a period of rapid expansion in endocrinology and reproductive biology, supporting research into hormone science, biomedical experimentation, and pharmaceutical development in the mid-20th century. Issued in the context of postwar laboratory growth and increasing institutional investment in hormonal research, the volume contributes to the scientific literature surrounding steroid hormones, metabolic regulation, and emerging clinical applications, including those that would inform contraceptive development and broader interventions in human physiology.

Pincus, Gregory; Thimann, K. V.; Astwood, E. B., eds. The Hormones: Physiology, Chemistry, and Applications. Volume IV. New York and London: Academic Press, 1964. The volume forms part of a multi-volume series compiling contributions from specialists in biochemistry, physiology, and medicine, presenting technical discussions of hormone isolation, chemical structure, biological function, and therapeutic use. Chapters address experimental methodologies, laboratory findings, and clinical implications, reflecting the integration of chemistry and physiology in the study of endocrine systems. As a later installment in the series, Volume IV demonstrates the increasing specialization of the field, with detailed treatment of hormone interactions and regulatory mechanisms central to both human and animal studies. While Volumes 1 through 3 established the "gold standard" for mammalian hormones, Volume 4 shifts focus toward: Plant and Invertebrate Hormones: Extensive coverage of auxins (plant growth hormones) and the nature of hormones in insects, crustaceans, and other invertebrates like mollusks and annelids. Lower Vertebrates: Dedicated chapters on the endocrine mechanisms of poikilothermic vertebrates (cold-blooded animals like fish, amphibians, and reptiles), covering their thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive systems. Methodological Advances: It introduces the emerging field of immunoassays, comparing their sensitivity and specificity to older bioassay methods for protein hormones. Specific Mammalian Updates: It provides deeper dives into the synthesis and metabolism of catecholamines and the nature of glucagon, which were rapidly developing areas at the time of publication.

One volume; thick octavo; bound in original dark blue cloth with gilt spine lettering; no dust jacket present. The work aligns with contemporaneous developments in hormonal research led in part by editor Gregory Pincus, whose involvement in oral contraceptive development situates the series within broader transformations in reproductive science and medical control of fertility during the Cold War era. Cloth lightly rubbed with surface wear and minor bumping at spine ends and corners; spine gilt remains bright; endpapers and edges mildly toned; text block clean and sound; good overall. A durable scientific reference documenting the consolidation of endocrinology as a modern biomedical discipline.

Item #22872

Price: $225.00