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2013 has revealed interesting mechanisms that explain how glucocorticoid signalling responses can be influenced by childhood trauma, activity of other signalling molecules, glucocorticoid circadian rhythms and the sequence of DNA regulatory regions. In particular, studies this year highlight how different signalling environments can determine the molecular and physiological responses of glucocorticoids themselves, and how glucocorticoids can affect other signalling systems.
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting around 5% of reproductive age women, often causing pelvic pain and infertility. This Review addresses current knowledge on the pathogenesis of the condition, medical, surgical and potential new treatments, the role of assisted reproduction, prevention of recurrences, and the association with ovarian cancer.
With improvements in the care of patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), more adults are now living with the condition. However, no consensus exists for managing adult patients with CAH, who generally have a poor health status. In this Review, investigators from the congenital adrenal hyperplasia in adults executive study discuss the treatment and health outcomes of adults with CAH.
The recommended daily iodine intake is 150 µg in adults who are not pregnant or lactating. Most people can tolerate levels above this threshold, but excess iodine exposure or ingestion can result in thyroid dysfunction in certain susceptible individuals. This article discusses the consequences of excess iodine.
In 2013, studies in rodents and humans have reaffirmed the essential role of the gut microbiota in host metabolism. More importantly, several converging results have increased our knowledge regarding the taxa and functions of the gut microbiota that contribute to the management of energy homeostasis, glucose metabolism and metabolic inflammation.
An Endocrine Society-appointed task force has developed an evidence-based clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. The guidelines provide suggestions for the management of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and highlight many areas of uncertainty requiring further scientific efforts.
Metabolic surgery has been proven to be effective in inducing remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus prior to any significant weight reduction. Studies in 2013 have investigated the mechanisms of action of these procedures and have highlighted a central role of the small intestine in the effects on glucose homeostasis.