Ultrastructure of Rat Adenohypophysis. Correlation with Function

The size of this monograph and its moderate price belie the wealth of information contained within its pages. This book is a competent attempt to assemble biochemical and physiological data and correlate these findings with ultrastructure of the rat anterior pituitary. There are twelve chapters. The first two are devoted to definitions and experimental procedures. The next six chapters center attention on the individual cell types in the anterior pituitary including the chromophobe. Each of these chapters first reviews the early findings by light microscopy and correlates these findings as well as physiological and biochemical evidence with ultrastructure using typical electron micrographs as examples. Individual chapters deal with the pars tuberalis and pars intermedia. The final two chapters are devoted to the chemical and physical properties of secretory granules, their formation and release. The latter two discussions are understandably incomplete but consistent with the evidence to date. The discussions on gonadotropes and adrenocorticotropes are particularly well done. The effects of different physiological states and pharmacological agents on ultrastructure are clearly demonstrated with electron micrographs. It should be noted that all functional data are interpreted in the light of the author's own work and, therefore, it is possible that some readers may take exception to his interpretations. Discussions are often weak in analytical quality but this failing is offset by excellence in comprehensive review of literature. The author's style is clear and concise and his approach to his subject is thorough. This practical book should make a fine teaching text and a useful reference source for investigators active in this field.