Related Experiment Videos
The thyroid stimulating hormone receptor in human disease.
1Burnet Clinical Research Unit, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
Clinical Biochemistry
|February 1, 1990
Summary
Thyrotropin (TSH) receptor antibodies are key in Graves' disease. Purifying the TSH receptor revealed its complex glycoprotein structure, aiding in understanding Graves' hyperthyroidism relapse prediction.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Thyrotropin (TSH) initiates its action by binding to the TSH receptor.
- TSH receptor antibodies are present in up to 90% of Graves' disease patients.
- Monitoring TSH receptor antibodies aids in predicting relapse in Graves' hyperthyroidism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the TSH receptor structure.
- To understand the molecular basis of TSH receptor antibody interactions.
Main Methods:
- Purification of the TSH receptor via affinity chromatography (wheat germ lectin agarose and TSH-agarose).
- Characterization using immunoblotting techniques.
Main Results:
- The TSH receptor is an oligomeric glycoprotein.
- It comprises three noncovalently bound subunits (approx. 70,000, 50,000, and 35,000 Mr).
- Reduction yields a single subunit of approximately 25,000 Mr.
Conclusions:
- The purified TSH receptor exhibits a complex subunit structure.
- This structural information is crucial for understanding Graves' disease pathogenesis and antibody binding.