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This is the third of four modules taken in year 2. This module introduces you to the integrative functions of the major endocrine axes. The module is concerned with how the major hormones are produced and how they each act to integrate metabolism and fluid balance.

We will investigate the role of selected endocrine axes in maintaining a stable environment for cells to function within the body, and will consider how defects in hormone production and/or action can lead to profound clinical symptoms. We will also look at how the production and metabolism of each hormone is normally controlled by feedback loops and how these can go wrong in disease.

The module aims to provide:

• definitions of the clinical prevalence of endocrine disorders, including iatrogenic states, thyroid disease, diabetes and other syndromes of insulin resistance, disorders of reproductive physiology
• knowledge and understanding of each of the major endocrine axes, emphasising the clinical significance of normal and abnormal feedback loops
• knowledge and understanding of the scientific basis of treatment options available for specified endocrine disorders
• a comparison of the mechanisms of action for hydrophilic and hydrophobic hormones, explaining those factors that can act in an endocrine target tissue to modulate the actions of hydrophilic and hydrophobic hormones
• an appreciation of (and explanations for) the variation in clinical measurements between different hormone assays and the possible impact of such variation on clinical management decisions.