Computational Neuroendocrinology

Book Preface

This series is a joint venture between the International Neuroendocrine Federation and Wiley-Blackwell. The broad aim of the series is to provide established researchers, trainees, and students with authoritative up-to-date accounts of the present state of knowledge and prospects for the future across a range of topics in the burgeoning field of neuroendocrinology. The series is aimed at a wide audience as neuroendocrinology integrates neuroscience and endocrinology. We define neuroendocrinology as the study of the control of endocrine function by the brain and the actions of hormones on the brain. It encompasses the study of the normal and abnormal functions, and the developmental origins of disease. It includes the study of the neural networks in the brain that regulate and form neuroendocrine systems. It includes the study of behaviors and mental status that are influenced or regulated by hormones. It necessarily includes the understanding and study of peripheral physiological systems that are regulated by neuroendocrine mechanisms.

Clearly, neuroendocrinology embraces many current issues of concern to human health and well-being, but research on these issues necessitates reductionist animal models.

Contemporary research in neuroendocrinology involves the use of a wide range of techniques and technologies, from subcellular to systems and the whole organism level. A particular aim of the series is to provide expert advice and discussion about experimental or study protocols in research in neuroendocrinology and to further advance the field by giving information and advice about novel techniques, technologies and interdisciplinary approaches.

To achieve our aims, each book is based on a particular theme in neuroendocrinology, and for each book, we have recruited an editor, or pair of editors, experts in the field, and they have engaged an international team of experts to contribute chapters in their individual areas of expertise. Their mission was to give an update of knowledge and recent discoveries, to discuss new approaches, “gold-standard” protocols, translational possibilities, and future prospects. Authors were asked to write for a wide audience to minimize references, and to consider the use of video clips and explanatory text boxes; each chapter is peer-reviewed and has a Glossary, and each book has a detailed index. We have been guided by an Advisory Editorial Board. The Masterclass Series is open-ended: books in preparation include Neuroendocrinology of Neuroendocrine Neurons, Neuroendocrinology of Stress, Computational Neuroendocrinology, Molecular Neuroendocrinology, and Neuroendocrinology of Appetite.