The unraveling of the biology and disease mechanisms of the parathyroid has taken great strides in the recent few years. Parathyroid molecular biology is the first book to describe recent studies and discoveries in the field in detail. Key topics addressed include: The study of the molecular biology of the parathyroid hormone gene and its regulation by calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D The generation of mice with genetic deletions of the parathyroid, as well as mice which fail to develop the parathyroid gland The parathyroid’s connection to the calcium receptor and its effects, such as regulation of PTH secretion, gene expression, and proliferation The genetic mutations leading to diseases of decreased or excessive activity of the parathyroid The mechanisms of actions associated with patients with chronic renal failure and the development of markedly excessive activity of the parathyroid that causes severe bone disease This book will be essential reading to everyone interested in the latest developments in this burgeoning field.