MED3011

Endocrinology and human sexuality and reproduction

* * *

Endocrinology

Professor P Nagley (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)

Objectives On completion of this unit students should be able to (1) understand the structure and function of the endocrine system, providing a firm basis for later study of endocrine pathophysiology; (2) explain the molecular and cellular abnormalities in common endocrine-based diseases.

Synopsis The unit opens with a two week introductory section on endocrinology and reproduction common to both the subjects endocrinology and human sexuality and reproduction. The series of lectures, correlation sessions and practical exercises in endocrinology will focus on the broad concepts of the endocrine system and its regulation in normal individuals; the anatomy and histology of the endocrine system, together with major features of anatomical pathology and histopathology; the chemical nature of hormones, their synthesis, storage, secretion, metabolism, inactivation and excretion; hormone and growth factor effects at the whole body, cellular and molecular levels; the consequence of hypo-secretion and hyper-secretion of hormones; and the principles of hormone assays and other tests of endocrine function, and their clinical relevance.

Assessment Examinations (multiple-choice and short-answer) 1.5 hours: 100%

Prescribed texts

Brook C G D and Marshall N J Essential endocrinology 3rd edn, Blackwell, 1996

Recommended texts

Berne R M and Levy M N Physiology 3rd edn, Mosby, 1993
Ganong W F Review of medical physiology 17th edn, Lange, 1995
Greenspan F S and Strewler G J Basic and clinical endocrinology 5th edn, Appleton and Lange, 1997

* * *

Human sexuality and reproduction

Dr B J Canny (Physiology)

Objectives Students at the completion of this unit should have a detailed understanding of all aspects of human reproduction including the structure and function of the male and female reproductive tracts, the hormonal control of reproduction, the mechanisms involved in ovulation, fertilisation, embryonic and fetal growth and development, birth, lactation, puberty and the menopause. Students should acquire an understanding of basic human reproductive anatomy and physiology. They should understand reproductive disorders, including errors of fertilisation, sexual differentiation, embryonic and fetal growth and development, and the genesis of male and female infertility. They should be informed about patterns of reproductive behaviour and the relationship of these behavioural patterns to the acquisition of sexually transmitted diseases. They should be able to discuss the ethical aspects of in vitro fertilisation and abortion, and have a detailed understanding of all forms of contraception. The ultimate aim of the subject is to give the students an understanding of their own sexuality and to generate a feeling of tolerance and understanding for the sexual behaviour of others.

Synopsis The unit begins with a discussion of human population growth, and the challenge we face if we are to survive as a species, and then continues on from the conjoint endocrinology-reproduction lectures with an account of the hormonal control of the male and female gonads and reproductive tract. Fertilisation is discussed, and the role of the new reproductive technologies in treating infertility. An ethical discussion about these issues. The mechanisms of sex determination and sexual differentiation are reviewed, together with an account of the abnormalities that can occur, and the normal course of embryonic and fetal growth and development. Current and future methods of contraception, including male and female surgical sterilisation, condoms, 'natural' family planning, hormonal implants and injections, intra-uterine devices, and the oral contraceptive pill are reviewed along with antenatal diagnosis. An ethical discussion of abortion, puberty, male and female reproductive ageing, birth, breastfeeding, and the diagnosis and treatment of male and female infertility. The unit ends with case presentations on homosexuality, transexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS and sexual assault.

Assessment Examinations (multiple-choice and short-answer) 1.5 hours: 100%

Recommended texts

Austin C R and Short R V (eds) Reproduction in mammals books 1-5, 2nd edn, CUP, 1982-1986
Greenspan F S and Baxter J D Basic and clinical endocrinology 5th edn, Appleton and Lange, 1997
Hardin G Living within limits OUP, 1993
Hatcher R A and others Contraceptive technology 1990-1992 15th edn, Irvington, 1990

Back to the 1999 Medicine Handbook