The author presents an account on advances in endocrinology in 1997-1998, starting by mentioning the Nobel prize for physiology and medicine in 1998 and the discovery of nitric oxide as an active substance. Subsequently the author discusses data on „new gerontology“, i.e. hormonal aspects of the menopause, andropause, adrenopause and somatopause. Endocrinological contributions to oncology pertain in particular to the discovery of active substances which inhibit neovascularization (endostatins) and some new aspects of the action of antioestrogens and oestrogens. The possible action of hormonal factors in neurodegenerative processes are obvious in ubiquitine, CREB and „heat shock proteins“. New types of Ca-channels were detected, in particular „promiscuous“ channels, conveying Ca as well as Na, which can be influenced by endogenous ouabain. Subsequently attention is paid to ryanodine receptors and compounds acting as Ca on the sensor for Ca in the parathyroid bodies and inhibition parathormone secretion. The greatest future advances will be achieved obviously in the sphere of oncology, gerontology and hormonal analogues with unforeseen effects.

        Key words: endocrinology.