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In vivo Characterization of Endocrine Disrupting Chemical Effects via Thyroid Hormone Action Indicator Mouse
Published on: October 6, 2023
Aluminium effects on thyroid gland function: iodide uptake, hormone biosynthesis and secretion
1Laboratorio de Investigaciones Fisiológicas Experimentales, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina. orihuela@fbcb.unl.edu.ar
Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry
|November 22, 2011
Summary
Aluminium exposure in rats reduced thyroid iodide uptake and lowered thyroid hormone levels, suggesting potential oxidative stress. However, the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis compensated, indicating aluminium is not a thyroid disruptor.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Aluminium (Al) is a common environmental toxicant.
- Its potential impact on thyroid function requires thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of chronic aluminium exposure on thyroid function in adult Wistar rats.
- To assess the influence of Al on iodide uptake, thyroid hormone levels, and oxidative stress markers.
Main Methods:
- Adult Wistar rats were administered 7 mg Al/kg body weight daily for six weeks.
- Na(125)I kinetics, thyroid Al content, lipid peroxidation, and serum thyroid hormones (T4, T3, free-T4, TSH) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Aluminium exposure significantly reduced thyroid (125)I(-) uptake and hormone release.
- Increased thyroid Al content and lipid peroxidation were observed.
- Serum total thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) levels decreased, while free-T4 and TSH remained unchanged.
Conclusions:
- Aluminium exposure may indirectly affect thyroid function via oxidative stress, impacting iodide uptake and hormone secretion.
- The hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis appears to compensate for these changes.
- In adult rats, aluminium does not act as a thyroid disruptor.
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