In our introductory lecture, Dr. Bikman begins our exploration of endocrinology, focusing on the nature and function of hormones as cellular messengers throughout the body. The discussion covers three main classifications of hormones, examining their synthesis, storage, transport mechanisms, and signaling pathways. The lecture concludes by explaining the concepts of endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine signaling, along with the importance of feedback mechanisms in hormonal regulation.

In lecture two, we examine the hypothalamic-pituitary axis as the central conductor of the endocrine system and how the hypothalamus acts as an endocrine CEO, sending signals through the anterior pituitary to target glands like the thyroid, adrenal, and gonads. We discuss the unique anatomy and functions of both the posterior pituitary and the anterior pituitary, including how to diagnose disorders at different levels of the axis. Dr. Bikman also addresses key pituitary disorders including Sheehan syndrome and pituitary adenomas, emphasizing the clinical importance of understanding these relationships for proper diagnosis and treatment.

In lecture three, we study the thyroid system, beginning with its unique position in the endocrine system and its universal effects on all body cells through the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis. We examine the complex process of thyroid hormone synthesis, and discuss various thyroid disorders including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. The lecture concludes by highlighting the vital importance of thyroid hormone in development and metabolism, emphasizing its connections with other autoimmune conditions and clinical implications.