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Penna GC, Bensenor IM, Bianco AC, Ettleson MD. Thyroid Hormone Homeostasis in Levothyroxine-treated Patients: Findings From ELSA-Brasil. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:2504-2512. [PMID: 38506164 PMCID: PMC11403308 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgae139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT The effectiveness of levothyroxine (LT4) in restoring thyroid hormone (TH) homeostasis, particularly serum thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) levels, remains debatable. OBJECTIVE This work aimed to assess TH homeostasis in LT4-treated individuals using data from the Longitudinal Study of Adult Health in Brazil (ELSA-Brasil) study. METHODS The ELSA-Brasil study follows 15 105 adult Brazilians (aged 35-74 years) over 8.2 years (2008-2019) with 3 observation points assessing health parameters including serum thyrotropin (TSH), free T4 (FT4), and free T3 (FT3) levels. We analyzed 186 participants that initiated treatment with LT4 during the study, and 243 individuals continuously treated with LT4 therapy. RESULTS Initiation of therapy with LT4 resulted in an 11% to 19% decrease in TSH, an approximately 19% increase in FT4, and a 7% reduction in FT3 serum levels (FT3 dropped >10% in ∼40% of the LT4-treated patients). This was associated with an increase in triglyceride levels and utilization of hypolipidemic and antidiabetic medications. Participants continuously treated with LT4 exhibited a stable elevation in serum FT4 and a reduction in serum FT3 and TSH levels. While 115 participants (47.3%) had at least 1 serum FT4 levels above the control reference range (>1.52 ng/dL), 38 participants (15.6%) had at least 1 serum FT3 below the reference range (<0.23 ng/dL). CONCLUSION The present results challenge the dogma that treatment with LT4 for hypothyroidism restores TH homeostasis in all patients. A substantial number of LT4-treated patients exhibit repeated FT4 and FT3 levels outside the normal reference range, despite normal TSH levels. Further studies are needed to define the clinical implications of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo C Penna
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Universidade Federal e Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Isabela M Bensenor
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-220, Brazil
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Matthew D Ettleson
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Vargas-Uricoechea H, Wartofsky L. LT4/LT3 Combination Therapy vs. Monotherapy with LT4 for Persistent Symptoms of Hypothyroidism: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9218. [PMID: 39273168 PMCID: PMC11395006 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Regardless of the cause, hypothyroidism should be treated with levothyroxine. The objectives of management are the normalization of TSH levels and the relief of symptoms. In general, the vast majority of patients who achieve normalization of TSH levels show a resolution of symptoms; however, for a small number of individuals, symptoms persist (despite adequate control of TSH). This scenario generates a dilemma in the therapeutic approach to these patients, because even when excluding other causes or concomitant diseases that can explain the persistence of symptoms, pharmacological management strategies are scarce. Consequently, the efficacy of some less conventional approaches to therapy, such as the use of LT3 monotherapy, desiccated thyroid extracts, and LT4/LT3 combinations, in addressing persistent hypothyroid symptoms have been evaluated in multiple studies. The majority of these studies did not observe a significant benefit from these "nonconventional" therapies in comparison to results with LT4 monotherapy alone. Nevertheless, some studies report that a significant proportion of patients prefer an alternative to monotherapy with LT4. The most common approach has been to prescribe a combination of LT4 and LT3, and this review describes and analyzes the current evidence of the efficacy of LT4/LT3 combination therapy vs. LT4 monotherapy in addressing persistent hypothyroidism symptoms to provide suggested guidelines for clinicians in the management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hernando Vargas-Uricoechea
- Metabolic Diseases Study Group, Department of Internal Medicine, Universidad del Cauca, Carrera 6 Nº 13N-50, Popayán 190001, Colombia
| | - Leonard Wartofsky
- Medstar Health Research Institute, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20007, USA
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Diba Lahmidi M, Le Noc M, Dali O, Kernanec PY, Merret PE, Jaulin C, Smagulova F. Sex-specific transgenerational effects on murine thyroid gland imposed by ancestral exposure to neonicotinoid thiacloprid. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13047. [PMID: 38844538 PMCID: PMC11156953 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63986-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Neonicotinoids, a relatively new widely used class of insecticide is used in agriculture to control insect populations. We examined the capacity of ancestral exposure to the neonicotinoid thiacloprid (thia) to induce transgenerational effects on thyroid tissue. Pregnant outbred Swiss female mice were exposed to thia at embryonic days E6.5 to E15.5 using 0, 0.6, and 6 mg/kg/day doses. Thyroid paraffin sections were prepared for morphology analysis. We apply ELISA method to measure T4 and TSH levels, RT-qPCR for gene expression analysis, ChIP-qPCR techniques for sperm histone H3K4me3 analysis, and immunofluorescence microscopy and western blots for protein detection. We observed an alteration in the morphology of thyroids in both males and females in the F3 generation. We observed an increase in T4 hormone in F1 females and a significant T4 level decrease in F3 males. T4 changes in F1 females were associated with a TSH increase. We found that the amount of Iodothyronine Deiodinase 1 (DIO1) (an enzyme converting T4 to T3) was decreased in both F1 and F3 generations in female thyroids. GNAS protein which is important for thyroid function has increased in female thyroids. Gene expression analysis showed that the expression of genes encoding thyroid gland development, chromatin, biosynthesis and transport factors were affected in the thyroid gland in both sexes in F1 and F3. The analysis of sperm histone H3K4me3 showed that H3K4me3 occupancy at the Dio1 locus has decreased while Thyroglobulin (Tg) and Matrix Metallopeptidase 2 (Mmp2) genes have increased H3K4me3 occupancy in the sperm of F3 mice. Besides, DNA methylation analysis of our previously published datasets showed that, in the sperm of F1 and F3 thia-derived mice, several genes related to thyroid function show consistent alterations. Our data suggest that ancestral exposure to thiacloprid affects thyroid function not only in exposed but also in indirectly exposed F3 generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Diba Lahmidi
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, Inserm, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, 35000, Rennes, France
| | - Morgane Le Noc
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, Inserm, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, 35000, Rennes, France
| | - Ouzna Dali
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, Inserm, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, 35000, Rennes, France
| | - Pierre-Yves Kernanec
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, Inserm, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, 35000, Rennes, France
| | - Pierre-Etienne Merret
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, Inserm, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, 35000, Rennes, France
| | - Christian Jaulin
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, Inserm, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, 35000, Rennes, France
| | - Fatima Smagulova
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, Inserm, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, 35000, Rennes, France.
- Irset-Inserm UMR 1085, 9 Avenue du Prof. Léon Bernard, 35000, Rennes, France.
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Penna GC, Salas-Lucia F, Ribeiro MO, Bianco AC. Gene polymorphisms and thyroid hormone signaling: implication for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Endocrine 2024; 84:309-319. [PMID: 37740833 PMCID: PMC10959761 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-023-03528-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mutations and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding the network of proteins involved in thyroid hormone signaling (TH) may have implications for the effectiveness of the treatment of hypothyroidism with LT4. It is conceivable that loss-of-function mutations or SNPs impair the ability of LT4 to be activated to T3, reach its targets, and ultimately resolve symptoms of hypothyroidism. Some of these patients do benefit from therapy containing LT4 and LT3. METHODS Here, we reviewed the PubMed and examined gene mutations and SNPs in the TH cellular transporters, deiodinases, and TH receptors, along with their impact on TH signaling, and potential clinical implications. RESULTS In some mechanisms, such as the Thr92Ala-DIO2 SNP, there is a compelling rationale for reduced T4 to T3 activation that limits the effectiveness of LT4 to restore euthyroidism. In other mechanisms, a potential case can be made but more studies with a larger number of individuals are needed. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION Understanding the clinical impact of the genetic makeup of LT4-treated patients may help in the preemptive identification of those individuals that would benefit from therapy containing LT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo C Penna
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Federico Salas-Lucia
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Miriam O Ribeiro
- Developmental Disorders Program, Center for Biological Sciences and Health, Mackenzie Presbyterian University, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Attanasio R, Žarković M, Papini E, Nagy EV, Negro R, Perros P, Akarsu E, Alevizaki M, Ayvaz G, Bednarczuk T, Beleslin BN, Berta E, Bodor M, Borissova AM, Boyanov M, Buffet C, Burlacu MC, Ćirić J, Díez JJ, Dobnig H, Fadeyev V, Field BCT, Fliers E, Führer-Sakel D, Galofré JC, Hakala T, Jiskra J, Kopp PA, Krebs M, Kršek M, Kužma M, Lantz M, Lazúrová I, Leenhardt L, Luchytskiy V, Marques Puga F, McGowan A, Metso S, Moran C, Morgunova T, Niculescu DA, Perić B, Planck T, Poiana C, Robenshtok E, Rosselet PO, Ruchala M, Ryom Riis K, Shepelkevich A, Tronko MD, Unuane D, Vardarli I, Visser WE, Vryonidou A, Younes YR, Hegedüs L. Patients' Persistent Symptoms, Clinician Demographics, and Geo-Economic Factors Are Associated with Choice of Therapy for Hypothyroidism by European Thyroid Specialists: The "THESIS" Collaboration. Thyroid 2024; 34:429-441. [PMID: 38368541 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Background: Hypothyroidism is common, however, aspects of its treatment remain controversial. Our survey aimed at documenting treatment choices of European thyroid specialists and exploring how patients' persistent symptoms, clinician demographics, and geo-economic factors relate to treatment choices. Methods: Seventeen thousand two hundred forty-seven thyroid specialists from 28 countries were invited to participate in an online questionnaire survey. The survey included respondent demographic data and treatment choices for hypothyroid patients with persistent symptoms. Geo-economic data for each country were included in the analyses. Results: The response rate was 32.9% (6058 respondents out of 17,247 invitees). Levothyroxine (LT4) was the initial treatment preferred by the majority (98.3%). Persistent symptoms despite normal serum thyrotropin (TSH) while receiving LT4 treatment were reported to affect up to 10.0% of patients by 75.4% of respondents, while 28.4% reported an increasing such trend in the past 5 years. The principal explanations offered for patients' persistent symptoms were psychosocial factors (77.1%), comorbidities (69.2%), and unrealistic patient expectations (61.0%). Combination treatment with LT4+liothyronine (LT3) was chosen by 40.0% of respondents for patients who complained of persistent symptoms despite a normal TSH. This option was selected more frequently by female thyroid specialists, with high-volume practice, working in countries with high gross national income per capita. Conclusions: The perception of patients' dissatisfaction reported by physicians seems lower than that described by hypothyroid patients in previous surveys. LT4+LT3 treatment is used frequently by thyroid specialists in Europe for persistent hypothyroid-like symptoms even if they generally attribute such symptoms to nonendocrine causes and despite the evidence of nonsuperiority of the combined over the LT4 therapy. Pressure by dissatisfied patients on their physicians for LT3-containing treatments is a likely explanation. The association of the therapeutic choices with the clinician demographic characteristics and geo-economic factors in Europe is a novel information and requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Attanasio
- Scientific Committee Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, Milan, Italy
| | - Miloš Žarković
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Endre Vezekenyi Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roberto Negro
- Division of Endocrinology, Ospedale Fazzi, Lecce, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Institute of Translational and Clinical Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Ersin Akarsu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Maria Alevizaki
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Göksun Ayvaz
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Koru Ankara Hospital, Çankaya, Turkey
| | - Tomasz Bednarczuk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Biljana Nedeljković Beleslin
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Eszter Berta
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Miklos Bodor
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anna Maria Borissova
- Clinic of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Hospital "Sofiamed," Medical Faculty, Sofia University "Saint Kliment Ohridski," Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mihail Boyanov
- Clinic of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University Hospital "Alexandrovska," Sofia, Bulgaria
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Camille Buffet
- GRC n 16, GRC Thyroid Tumors, Thyroid Disease and Endocrine Tumor Department, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtriére, Sorbonne Universitè, Paris, France
| | - Maria-Cristina Burlacu
- Department of Endocrinology Diabetology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jasmina Ćirić
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Diseases of Metabolism, Thyroid Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Juan J Díez
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro Segovia de Arana, Calle Manuel de Falla, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Harald Dobnig
- Thyroid and Osteoporosis Praxis, Kumberg, Austria
- Thyroid Practice for Radiofrequency Ablation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Valentin Fadeyev
- Department of Endocrinology No. 1, N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Benjamin C T Field
- Section of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Eric Fliers
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dagmar Führer-Sakel
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Juan Carlos Galofré
- Department of Endocrinology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Tommi Hakala
- Department of Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jan Jiskra
- 3rd Department of Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Peter A Kopp
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Michael Krebs
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michal Kršek
- 3rd Department of Medicine, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kužma
- 5th Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty of Comenius University and University Hospital, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Mikael Lantz
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Ivica Lazúrová
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine of the Medical Faculty, P.J. Šafárik University Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Laurence Leenhardt
- GRC n 16, GRC Thyroid Tumors, Thyroid Disease and Endocrine Tumor Department, APHP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtriére, Sorbonne Universitè, Paris, France
| | - Vitaliy Luchytskiy
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism named after V.P. Komissarenko, National Academy of Medical Science of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Francisca Marques Puga
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Service, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - Anne McGowan
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Saara Metso
- Department of Endocrinology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Carla Moran
- Diabetes & Endocrinology Section, Beacon Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tatyana Morgunova
- Department of Endocrinology No. 1, N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Dan Alexandru Niculescu
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Božidar Perić
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases "Mladen Sekso," University Hospital Center "Sisters of Mercy," Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tereza Planck
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Catalina Poiana
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Eyal Robenshtok
- Thyroid Cancer Service, Endocrinology and Metabolism Institute, Beilinson Hospital and Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Petah Tikva, Israel
| | | | - Marek Ruchala
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Kamilla Ryom Riis
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
| | - Alla Shepelkevich
- Department of Endocrinology, Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Republic of Belarus
| | - Mykola D Tronko
- V.P. Komisarenko Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism of Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - David Unuane
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrine Unit, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Irfan Vardarli
- Department of Medicine I, Klinikum Vest GmbH, Knappschaftskrankenhaus Recklinghausen, Academic Teaching Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Recklinghausen, Germany
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, 5th Medical Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - W Edward Visser
- Rotterdam Thyroid Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andromachi Vryonidou
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, Hellenic Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark
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Uyulgan S, Köse SN, Kıpçak A, Başkan Y, Dağlar G, Karagonlar ZF, Yandım C. Thyroid hormone T3 augments the cytotoxicity of sorafenib in Huh7 hepatocellular carcinoma cells by suppressing AKT expression. J Cancer Res Ther 2024; 20:755-762. [PMID: 39023579 DOI: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_2106_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary cancer that poorly responds to treatment. Molecular cancer studies led to the development of kinase inhibitors, among which sorafenib stands out as a multi-kinase inhibitor approved by FDA for first line use in HCC patients. However, the efficiency of sorafenib was shown to be counteracted by numerous subcellular pathways involving the effector kinase AKT, causing resistance and limiting its survival benefit. On the way of breaking such resistance mechanisms and increase the efficiency of sorafenib, deeper understanding of hepatocellular physiology is essential. Thyroid hormones were shown to be metabolized in liver and inevitably affect the molecular behaviour of hepatocytes. Interestingly, thyroid hormone T3 was also demonstrated to be potentially influential in liver regeneration and treatment with this hormone reportedly led to a decrease in HCC tumor growths. In this study, we aimed to uncover the impact of T3 hormone on the cytotoxic response to sorafenib in HCC in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS We pre-treated the HCC cell line Huh-7 with T3 prior to sorafenib exposure both in 2D and 3D culture. We checked cell viability with MTT assay in 2D culture and measured the sizes of 3D spheroids with bright-field microscopy followed by a surface analysis with ImageJ. We also performed scratch assay to measure cell migration as well as western blot and qPCR to uncover affected pathways. RESULTS We observed an additive effect to sorafenib's cytotoxicity both in 2D and 3D culture. Cell migration assay also confirmed our finding and pointed out a benefit of T3 hormone in HCC cell migration. Western blot experiments showed that T3 exerts its additive effect by suppressing AKT expression upon sorafenib treatment both at protein and gene expression levels. CONCLUSION Our results open a promising new avenue in increasing sorafenib's cytotoxicity where thyroid hormone T3 is utilized to modulate AKT expression to combat resistance, and warrant further studies in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sude Uyulgan
- İzmir University of Economics, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, 35330, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
- İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylül University Health Campus, 35340, İnciraltı, İzmir, Turkey
- İzmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute (iBG-İzmir), Dokuz Eylül University, 35340, İnciraltı, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Sıla Naz Köse
- İzmir University of Economics, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, 35330, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Arda Kıpçak
- İzmir University of Economics, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, 35330, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
- Present Adress: Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22903 USA
| | - Yağmur Başkan
- İzmir University of Economics, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, 35330, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Gökçe Dağlar
- İzmir University of Economics, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, 35330, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Fırtına Karagonlar
- İzmir University of Economics, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, 35330, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Cihangir Yandım
- İzmir University of Economics, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, 35330, Balçova, İzmir, Turkey
- İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG), Dokuz Eylül University Health Campus, 35340, İnciraltı, İzmir, Turkey
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7
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Jensen CZ, Isaksen JL, Ahlberg G, Olesen MS, Nygaard B, Ellervik C, Kanters JK. Association of DIO2 and MCT10 Polymorphisms With Persistent Symptoms in LT4-Treated Patients in the UK Biobank. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e613-e622. [PMID: 37740545 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Some evidence suggests gene-treatment interactions might cause persistent symptoms in individuals receiving levothyroxine (LT4) treatment. OBJECTIVE We investigated, as previously hypothesized, if single-nucleotide variations (SNVs; formerly single-nucleotide polymorphisms) in rs225014 (Thr92Ala), rs225015, or rs12885300 (ORFa-Gly3Asp) in the deiodinase 2 gene (DIO2), or rs17606253 in the monocarboxylate transporter 10 gene (MCT10) were associated with outcomes indicative of local tissue hypothyroidism in LT4-treated patients and controls. METHODS We included 18 761 LT4-treated patients and 360 534 controls in a population-based cross-sectional study in the UK Biobank. LT4 treatment was defined as a diagnosis of hypothyroidism and self-reported use of LT4 without use of 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine. Outcomes were psychological well-being, cognitive function, and cardiovascular risk factors. Associations were evaluated by linear, logistic, or ordinal logistic multiple regression. Adjustments included sex, age, sex-age interaction, and genetic principal components 1 to 10. RESULTS Compared to controls, LT4 treatment was adversely associated with almost all outcomes, most noteworthy: Increased frequency of tiredness (P < .001), decreased well-being factor score (P < .001), increased reaction-time (P < .001), and increased body mass index (P < .001). Except for a significant association between the minor rs225015 A allele and financial dissatisfaction, there was no association of rs225014, rs225015, rs12885300, or rs17606253 with any outcomes in LT4-treated patients. For all outcomes, carrying the risk allele at these 4 SNVs did not amplify symptoms associated with LT4 treatment compared to controls. CONCLUSION rs225014, rs225015, rs12885300, and rs17606253 could not explain changed psychological well-being, cognitive function, or cardiovascular risk factors in LT4-treated patients. Our findings do not support a gene-treatment interaction between these SNVs and LT4 treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Zinck Jensen
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark
- Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital-Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev DK-2730, Denmark
| | - Jonas Lynggaard Isaksen
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark
| | - Gustav Ahlberg
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Centre, Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark
| | - Morten Salling Olesen
- Laboratory for Molecular Cardiology, The Heart Centre, Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark
| | - Birte Nygaard
- Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Copenhagen University Hospital-Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev DK-2730, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark
| | - Christina Ellervik
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jørgen Kim Kanters
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2200, Denmark
- Center of Physiological Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94131, USA
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8
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Lawton RI, Sabatini BL, Hochbaum DR. Longevity, demographic characteristics, and socio-economic status are linked to triiodothyronine levels in the general population. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2308652121. [PMID: 38175866 PMCID: PMC10786306 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2308652121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis is fundamental to human biology, exerting central control over energy expenditure and body temperature. However, the consequences of normal physiologic HPT-axis variation in populations without diagnosed thyroid disease are poorly understood. Using nationally representative data from the 2007 to 2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we explore relationships with demographic characteristics, longevity, and socio-economic factors. We find much larger variation across age in free T3 than other HPT-axis hormones. T3 and T4 have opposite relationships to mortality: free T3 is inversely related and free T4 is positively related to the likelihood of death. Free T3 and household income are negatively related, particularly at lower incomes. Finally, free T3 among older adults is associated with labor both in terms of unemployment and hours worked. Physiologic TSH/T4 explain only 1.7% of T3 variation, and neither are appreciably correlated to socio-economic outcomes. Taken together, our data suggest an unappreciated complexity of the HPT-axis signaling cascade broadly such that TSH and T4 may not be accurate surrogates of free T3. Furthermore, we find that subclinical variation in the HPT-axis effector hormone T3 is an important and overlooked factor linking socio-economic forces, human biology, and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bernardo L. Sabatini
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
- HHMI, Chevy Chase, MD20815
| | - Daniel R. Hochbaum
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
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9
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Olanrewaju OA, Asghar R, Makwana S, Yahya M, Kumar N, Khawar MH, Ahmed A, Islam T, Kumari K, Shadmani S, Ali M, Kumar S, Khatri M, Varrassi G, Mohamad T. Thyroid and Its Ripple Effect: Impact on Cardiac Structure, Function, and Outcomes. Cureus 2024; 16:e51574. [PMID: 38318568 PMCID: PMC10840038 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Thyroid dysfunction is a widespread and complex issue in the field of endocrine disorders. It has a significant impact on multiple physiological systems, particularly on the heart. This review explores the complex interaction between thyroid dysfunction and cardiac dynamics, examining the detailed network of molecular, cellular, and systemic changes that underlie the close connection between these two physiological areas. Thyroid dysfunction, which includes both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, is a common endocrine condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine regulate various metabolic activities essential for maintaining cellular balance. Disruptions in thyroid function result in widespread consequences, affecting the cardiovascular system. Thyroid hormones directly impact cardiac muscle cells, controlling their ability to contract, their electrical properties, and their reaction to hypertrophy. Thyroid dysfunction goes beyond the level of individual cells and involves complex interactions among vascular dynamics, neurohormonal control, and endothelial function. These factors all contribute to the development of cardiovascular illness. The impact of thyroid dysfunction on cardiac structure, function, and outcomes is not limited to a one-way pattern. Instead, it involves a dynamic two-way interaction. The manifestations of this condition can vary from minor changes in the electrical activity of the heart to more obvious structural abnormalities, such as an increase in the size of the heart muscle and a decrease in its ability to relax during the filling phase. Furthermore, the correlation between thyroid dysfunction and adverse cardiovascular outcomes, such as heart failure and arrhythmias, highlights the clinical importance of this connection. This review provides a complete overview of the relationship between thyroid dysfunction and cardiac dynamics by analyzing a wide range of research from clinical, molecular, and epidemiological perspectives. This study seeks to enhance our comprehension of the comprehensive effects of thyroid dysfunction on the anatomy and function of the heart by explaining the complex molecular mechanisms and systemic consequences. The goal is to establish a basis for informed clinical treatment and future research efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olusegun A Olanrewaju
- Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, NGA
- General Medicine, Stavropol State Medical University, Stavropol, RUS
| | - Rida Asghar
- Medicine, Lahore Medical and Dental College, Lahore, PAK
| | | | - Muhammad Yahya
- Medicine, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, PAK
| | | | | | - Aqsa Ahmed
- Medicine, Medicare Hospital, Faisalabad, PAK
| | - Tamur Islam
- Internal Medicine, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad, PAK
| | - Komal Kumari
- Medicine, NMC Royal Family Medical Centre, Abu Dhabi, ARE
| | - Sujeet Shadmani
- Medicine, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College, Karachi, PAK
| | - Mohsin Ali
- Medicine, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical University, Larkana, PAK
| | - Satesh Kumar
- Medicine, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College, Karachi, PAK
| | - Mahima Khatri
- Internal Medicine/Cardiology, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, PAK
| | | | - Tamam Mohamad
- Cardiovascular Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, USA
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10
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Carlomagno F, Minnetti M, Angelini F, Pofi R, Sbardella E, Spaziani M, Aureli A, Anzuini A, Paparella R, Tarani L, Porcelli T, De Stefano MA, Pozza C, Gianfrilli D, Isidori AM. Altered Thyroid Feedback Loop in Klinefelter Syndrome: From Infancy Through the Transition to Adulthood. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e1329-e1340. [PMID: 37216911 PMCID: PMC10584011 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT It has been claimed that thyroid dysfunction contributes to the spectrum of Klinefelter syndrome (KS); however, studies are scarce. OBJECTIVE In a retrospective longitudinal study, we aimed at describing the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis and thyroid ultrasonographic (US) appearance in patients with KS throughout the life span. METHODS A total of 254 patients with KS (25.9 ± 16.1 years) were classified according to their pubertal and gonadal status and compared with different groups of non-KS age-matched individuals with normal thyroid function, treated and untreated hypogonadism, or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. We assessed serum thyroid hormone levels, antithyroid antibodies, US thyroid parameters, and in vitro pituitary type 2 deiodinase (D2) expression and activity. RESULTS Thyroid autoimmunity was more prevalent among individuals with KS at all ages, although the antibody (Ab)-negative vs Ab-positive cohorts were not different. Signs of thyroid dysfunction (reduced volume, lower echogenicity, and increased inhomogeneity) were more prominent in KS than in euthyroid controls. Free thyroid hormones were lower in prepubertal, pubertal, and adult patients with KS, whereas thyrotropin values were lower only in adults. Peripheral sensitivity to thyroid hormones was unaltered in KS, suggesting a dysfunctional HPT axis. Testosterone (T) was the only factor associated with thyroid function and appearance. In vitro testing demonstrated an inhibitory effect of T on pituitary D2 expression and activity, supporting enhanced central sensing of circulating thyroid hormones in hypogonadism. CONCLUSION From infancy through adulthood, KS is characterized by increased morphofunctional abnormalities of the thyroid gland, combined with a central feedback dysregulation sustained by the effect of hypogonadism on D2 deiodinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Carlomagno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Marianna Minnetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Francesco Angelini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pofi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Emilia Sbardella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Matteo Spaziani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Alessia Aureli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Antonella Anzuini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Roberto Paparella
- Department of Pediatrics, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarani
- Department of Pediatrics, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Tommaso Porcelli
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples 80131, Italy
| | | | - Carlotta Pozza
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Daniele Gianfrilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome 00161, Italy
- Centre for Rare Diseases (Endo-ERN accredited), Policlinico Umberto I, Rome 00161, Italy
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11
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Kumari Y, Bai P, Waqar F, Asif AT, Irshad B, Raj S, Varagantiwar V, Kumar M, Neha F, Chand S, Kumar S, Varrassi G, Khatri M, Mohamad T. Advancements in the Management of Endocrine System Disorders and Arrhythmias: A Comprehensive Narrative Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e46484. [PMID: 37927670 PMCID: PMC10624418 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, notable advancements have been made in managing endocrine system disorders and arrhythmias. These advancements have brought about significant changes in healthcare providers' approach towards these complex medical conditions. Endocrine system disorders encompass a diverse range of conditions, including but not limited to diabetes mellitus, thyroid dysfunction, and adrenal disorders. Significant advancements in comprehending the molecular underpinnings of these disorders have laid the foundation for implementing personalized medicine. Advancements in genomic profiling and biomarker identification have facilitated achieving more accurate diagnoses and developing customized treatment plans. Furthermore, the utilization of cutting-edge pharmaceuticals and advanced delivery systems presents a significant advancement in achieving enhanced glycemic control and minimizing adverse effects for individuals afflicted with endocrine disorders. Arrhythmias, characterized by irregular heart rhythms, present a substantial risk to cardiovascular well-being. Innovative strategies for managing arrhythmia encompass catheter-based ablation techniques, wearable cardiac monitoring devices, and predictive algorithms powered by artificial intelligence. These advancements facilitate the early detection, stratification of risks, and implementation of targeted interventions, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Incorporating technology and telemedicine has been instrumental in enhancing the accessibility and continuity of care for individuals diagnosed with endocrine disorders and arrhythmias. The utilization of remote patient monitoring and telehealth consultations enables prompt modifications to treatment regimens and alleviates the need for frequent visits to the clinic. This is particularly significant in light of the current global health crisis. This review highlights the interdisciplinary nature of managing endocrine disorders and arrhythmias, underscoring the significance of collaboration among endocrinologists, cardiologists, electrophysiologists, and other healthcare professionals. Multidisciplinary care teams have enhanced their capabilities to effectively address the intricate relationship between the endocrine and cardiovascular systems. In summary, endocrine system disorders and arrhythmias management have undergone significant advancements due to groundbreaking research, technological advancements, and collaborative healthcare approaches. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements, showcasing their potential to enhance patient care, improve quality of life, and decrease healthcare expenses. Healthcare providers must comprehend and integrate these advancements into their clinical practice to enhance outcomes for individuals with endocrine system disorders and arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogita Kumari
- Medicine, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, PAK
| | - Pooja Bai
- Internal Medicine, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, PAK
| | - Fahad Waqar
- Medicine, Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore, PAK
| | - Ahmad Talal Asif
- Medicine, King Edward Medical University (KEMU) Lahore, Lahore, PAK
| | - Beena Irshad
- Medicine, Sharif Medical and Dental College, Lahore, PAK
| | - Sahil Raj
- Internal Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | | | - Mahendra Kumar
- Medicine, Sardar Patel Medical College Bikaner India, Bikaner, IND
| | - Fnu Neha
- Medicine, Peoples University of Medical & Health Science for Women, Nawabshah, PAK
| | - Surat Chand
- Medicine, Ghulam Mohammad Mahar Medical College, Sukkur, PAK
| | - Satesh Kumar
- Medicine and Surgery, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College, Karachi, PAK
| | | | - Mahima Khatri
- Medicine and Surgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Karachi, PAK
| | - Tamam Mohamad
- Cardiovascular Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, USA
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12
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Van Uytfanghe K, Ehrenkranz J, Halsall D, Hoff K, Loh TP, Spencer CA, Köhrle J. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone and Thyroid Hormones (Triiodothyronine and Thyroxine): An American Thyroid Association-Commissioned Review of Current Clinical and Laboratory Status. Thyroid 2023; 33:1013-1028. [PMID: 37655789 PMCID: PMC10517335 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Background: Despite being the most performed laboratory endocrine investigation, the optimum use of thyroid tests (thyrotropin [TSH] and thyroid hormone [TH] measurement) is open to question and the interpretation of the results from these tests can be ambiguous. The American Thyroid Association (ATA) with its expertise support the endeavor of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) to improve and maintain standardization and harmonization of thyroid testing. ATA mandated an international interdisciplinary working group panel to survey the status of thyroid testing by reviewing the recent literature to revise or update the criteria as needed in mutual agreement and to inform clinical care. Summary: This review represents the conclusions on the clinical use of current routine TSH and TH (thyroxine [T4] and triiodothyronine [T3]) assays, taking into account geographic differences in disease prevalence and clinical and laboratory practice among writing members. The interaction between physiological, pathophysiological, and pharmacological factors and thyroid assays can affect their measurements and confound result interpretation. These factors need to be considered in the clinical context of the patient for appropriate test ordering and result interpretation. Despite significant advances in laboratory methods over the past 50 years, routine thyroid assays remain susceptible to idiosyncratic analytical interference that may produce spurious results. Improved standardization needs to be demonstrated through ongoing international efforts before results from different assays can be considered equivalent. Emerging technology (e.g., mass spectrometry) shows promise for improved analytical performance, but more evidence of its clinical utility and improved throughput is required before it can be considered for routine use. Close clinical-laboratory collaboration is encouraged to overcome and avoid the pitfalls in thyroid testing as well as resolve clinically discrepant results. The evidence base supporting the conclusions of this review is summarized in four detailed online technical supplements. Conclusions: Over the past five decades, testing for TSH, T4, and T3 has evolved from manual radioisotopic immunoassays to nonisotopic multiplexed immunometric assays using highly automated equipment. Despite these technical advances, physicians and laboratorians performing these analyses must understand limitations of these methods to properly order tests and interpret results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katleen Van Uytfanghe
- Ref4U—Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joel Ehrenkranz
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - David Halsall
- Cambridge University Hospitals Trust, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Kelly Hoff
- American Thyroid Association, Headquarters, Alexandria, Virginia, USA
| | - Tze Ping Loh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Carole A. Spencer
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Josef Köhrle
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institut für Experimentelle Endokrinologie, Berlin, Germany
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13
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Casula S, Ettleson MD, Bianco AC. Are We Restoring Thyroid Hormone Signaling in Levothyroxine-Treated Patients With Residual Symptoms of Hypothyroidism? Endocr Pract 2023; 29:581-588. [PMID: 37419565 PMCID: PMC11221272 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Levothyroxine (LT4) at doses that maintain the serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels within the normal range constitutes the standard of care for the treatment of hypothyroidism. After a few months, this eliminates the signs and symptoms of overt hypothyroidism in the majority of patients, owing to the endogenous activation of thyroxine to triiodothyronine, the biologically active thyroid hormone. Still, a small percentage of the patients (10%-20%) exhibit residual symptoms, despite having normal serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. These symptoms include cognitive, mood, and metabolic deficits, with a significant impairment in psychological well-being and quality of life. OBJECTIVE To provide a summary of progress in the approach of patients with hypothyroidism that exhibit residual symptoms despite treatment. METHODS We reviewed the current literature and here we focused on the mechanisms leading to a deficiency of T3 in some LT4-treated patients, the role of residual thyroid tissue and the rationale for combination therapy with LT4 + liothyronine (LT3). RESULTS A score of clinical trials comparing therapy with LT4 versus LT4 + LT3 concluded that both are safe and equally effective (neither is superior); however, these trials failed to recruit a sufficiently large number of patients with residual symptoms. New clinical trials that considered LT4-treated symptomatic patients revealed that such patients benefit from and prefer therapy containing LT4 + LT3; desiccated thyroid extract has also been used with similar results. A practical approach to patients with residual symptoms and on initiation of combination therapy with LT4 + LT3 is provided. CONCLUSION A recent joint statement of the American, British, and European Thyroid Associations recommends that a trial with combination therapy be offered to patients with hypothyroidism that do not fully benefit from therapy with LT4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Casula
- Department of Endocrinology, Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Miami, Florida
| | - Matthew D Ettleson
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
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14
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Ettleson MD, Prieto WH, Russo PST, de Sa J, Wan W, Laiteerapong N, Maciel RMB, Bianco AC. Serum Thyrotropin and Triiodothyronine Levels in Levothyroxine-treated Patients. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e258-e266. [PMID: 36515655 PMCID: PMC10413428 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Small adjustments in levothyroxine (LT4) dose do not appear to provide clinical benefit despite changes in thyrotropin (TSH) levels within the reference range. We hypothesize that the accompanying changes in serum total triiodothyronine (T3) levels do not reflect the magnitude of the changes in serum TSH. OBJECTIVE This work aims to characterize the relationships of serum free thyroxine (FT4) vs T3, FT4 vs TSH, and FT4 vs the T3/FT4 ratio. METHODS This cross-sectional, observational study comprised 9850 participants aged 18 years and older treated with LT4 from a large clinical database from January 1, 2009, to December 31, 2019. Patients had been treated with LT4, subdivided by serum FT4 level. Main outcome measures included model fitting of the relationships between serum FT4 vs TSH, FT4 vs T3, and FT4 vs T3/FT4. Mean and median values of TSH, T3, and T3/FT4 were calculated. RESULTS The relationships T3 vs FT4 and TSH vs FT4 were both complex and best represented by distinct, segmented regression models. Increasing FT4 levels were linearly associated with T3 levels until an inflection point at an FT4 level of 0.7 ng/dL, after which a flattening of the slope was observed following a convex quadratic curve. In contrast, increasing FT4 levels were associated with steep declines in TSH following 2 negative sigmoid curves. The FT4 vs T3/FT4 relationship was fit to an asymptotic regression curve supporting less T4 to T3 activation at higher FT4 levels. CONCLUSION In LT4-treated patients, the relationships between serum FT4 vs TSH and FT4 vs T3 across a range of FT4 levels are disproportionate. As a result, dose changes in LT4 that robustly modify serum FT4 and TSH values may only minimally affect serum T3 levels and result in no significant clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Ettleson
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
| | | | | | - Jose de Sa
- Fleury Group, Sao Paulo, SP 04344, Brazil
| | - Wen Wan
- Section of General Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
| | - Neda Laiteerapong
- Section of General Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
| | - Rui M B Maciel
- Fleury Group, Sao Paulo, SP 04344, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo SP 04039, Brazil
| | - Antonio C Bianco
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
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15
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Lawton RI, Sabatini BL, Hochbaum DR. Sub-clinical triiodothyronine levels predict health, demographic, and socioeconomic outcomes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.09.531775. [PMID: 36993428 PMCID: PMC10054950 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.09.531775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid (HPT) axis is fundamental to human biology, exerting central control over energy expenditure, metabolic rate, and body temperature. However, the consequences of "normal" physiologic HPT-axis variation in non-clinical populations are poorly understood. Using nationally-representative data from the 2007-2012 NHANES, we explore relationships with demographics, mortality, and socio-economic factors. We find much larger variation across age in free T3 than other HPT-axis hormones. T3 and T4 have opposite effects on mortality: free T3 is inversely related and free T4 is positively related with likelihood of death. Free T3 and household income are negatively related, particularly at lower incomes. Finally, free T3 among older adults is associated with labor both on the extensive margin (unemployment) and intensive margin (hours worked). Physiologic TSH/T4 explain only 1% of T3 variation, and neither are appreciably correlated to socio-economic outcomes. Taken together, our data suggest an unappreciated complexity and non-linearity of the HPT-axis signaling cascade broadly such that TSH and T4 may not be accurate surrogates of free T3. Furthermore, we find that sub-clinical variation in the HPT-axis effector hormone T3 is an important and overlooked factor linking socio-economic forces, human biology, and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bernardo L Sabatini
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Daniel R Hochbaum
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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16
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He W, Huang C, Wang L, Su W, Wang S, Huang P, Zhang X, Huang Y, Zhao Y, Lin M, Shi X, Li X. The correlation between triiodothyronine and the severity of liver fibrosis. BMC Endocr Disord 2022; 22:313. [PMID: 36503486 PMCID: PMC9743744 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-022-01228-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The severity of liver fibrosis is an important predictor of death in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, there is still no definite conclusion on the relationship between triiodothyronine (T3) and the severity of liver fibrosis. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between T3 level and the severity of liver fibrosis. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study of 2072 T2DM patients with normal thyroid function from January 2017 to January 2020. NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS), Fibrosis index based on the 4 factors (FIB-4) and BARD score (BARD) were used to assess the severity of fibrosis in T2DM patients, and linear regression analyses were used to determine the factors independently associated with liver fibrosis. Further experiments were performed to assess the impact of low T3 on fibrosis progression in mice model and explore possible mechanisms. RESULTS Free triiodothyronine (fT3) levels had significantly inverse correlations with NFS and FIB-4, and BARD in T2DM patients (P < 0.05). In multiple linear regression analyses, decreased fT3 level was an independent risk factor for the severity of liver fibrosis of T2DM patients (P < 0.01). Findings from in-vivo experiment using mice model proved that hypothyroidism mice had more severe of liver fibrosis than those mice with normal thyroid function. We also found that T3 could inhibit the profibrotic TREM2+CD9+ macrophage, which had been identified an important player in the progression of liver fibrosis. CONCLUSION The findings from this study proved an inverse correlation between T3 level and the severity of liver fibrosis, and lower fT3 level within the normal range was an independent risk factor for severe liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei He
- School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Caoxin Huang
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Liying Wang
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Weijuan Su
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Shunhua Wang
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Peiying Huang
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xiaofang Zhang
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yinxiang Huang
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Mingzhu Lin
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Xiulin Shi
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xiamen University, No.55 Zhenhai Road, 361003, Xaimen, China.
| | - Xuejun Li
- Xiamen Diabetes Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Diabetes, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xiamen University, No.55 Zhenhai Road, 361003, Xaimen, China.
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17
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Jonklaas J. Restoration of euthyroidism with levothyroxine: implications of etiology of hypothyroidism and the degree of residual endogenous thyroid function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:934003. [PMID: 35966075 PMCID: PMC9363917 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.934003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
There are many thyroid-related factors that combine with non-thyroid-related factors in order to affect the patient response to treatment of hypothyroidism, in terms of their satisfaction with therapy. Some of the thyroid-derived factors include the etiology of the hypothyroidism and the amount of residual thyroid function that the patient retains. These two factors may be intertwined and affected by a third influence, the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies. The downstream consequences of the interactions between these three factors may influence both free thyroxine and free triiodothyronine levels, TSH concentrations, and various thyroid biomarkers. Evidence of the widespread importance of thyroid hormones can be inferred from the multiple genes that are regulated, with their regulation affecting multiple serum biomarkers. Thyroid biomarkers may extend from various well-known serum markers such as lipids and sex hormone-binding globulin to serum levels of thyroid hormone metabolites. Moreover, the interplay between thyroid hormones and biomarkers and their relative ratios may be different depending on the hypothyroidism etiology and degree of residual thyroid function. The ultimate significance of these relationships and their effect on determining patient-reported outcomes, quality of life, and patient satisfaction is, as yet, poorly understood. However, identification of better biomarkers of thyroid function would advance the field. These biomarkers could be studied and correlated with patient-reported outcomes in future prospective studies comparing the impact of various thyroid hormone therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Jonklaas
- Division of Endocrinology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States
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