Intended for clinicians and researchers working in the field of obesity, this volume of informative reviews provides a concise overview of the vast amount of information that has been made available in biomedical literature over the past decade. Editor Donohoue notes that the contributors are among the undisputed leaders in the field, writing about what has become one of the greatest public health priorities. Topics include the most important aspects of genetic background, neuropeptide secretion and action, neuronal pathways, adipokines, gut hormones, environmental influences (such as physical activity and surgical alteration of the gastrointestinal tract), and the interactions among them. Chapters conclude with extensive listings of references. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)