The IGF system pervades the fields of development, linear and cellular growth and metabolism. Not only is the functional integrity of the IGF system crucial for normal linear growth and metabolism, it is also of fundamental importance for normal fetal development. This book consists of a compilation of chapters based on presentations at a symposium entitled 'IGFs and IGFBPs: Assessment and Therapeutic Benefit'. Highly qualified basic scientists and endocrinologists report new advances in the broad field of IGF physiology and pathophysiology, related to clinical medicine. New and topical areas of the IGF field are covered, focussing particularly on clinically relevant topics related to growth, pediatric and adult growth hormone deficiency, metabolic disorders, diabetes mellitus and neurology. Molecular and developmental defects are discussed, as are the contributions to clinical diagnosis and management of measurement of IGFs and IGFBPs. The therapeutic potential of recombinant human IGFs and IGFBPs in a range of disorders is also covered. The present volume of Endocrine Development will be of particular interest to scientists and clinicians working in IGF and IGF-related fields and to clinicians working in both pediatric and adult endocrinology and metabolism.