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Updated: May 11, 2026
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In vivo Characterization of Endocrine Disrupting Chemical Effects via Thyroid Hormone Action Indicator Mouse
Published on: October 6, 2023
Thyroid hormone signaling and homeostasis during aging
J Bowers1, J Terrien, M S Clerget-Froidevaux
1Muséum national d'Histoire Naturelle, Laboratoire de Physiologie Générale et Comparée, Unité Mixte de Recherche, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 7221, 75231 Paris cedex 5, France.
Endocrine Reviews
|May 23, 2013
Summary
Thyroid hormone (TH) levels correlate negatively with longevity. Constraining TH signaling during maturity may promote healthier aging by maintaining metabolic homeostasis.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Aging Research
- Metabolic Homeostasis
Background:
- Thyroid hormone (TH) signaling plays a crucial role in metabolic homeostasis.
- Studies show a negative correlation between TH levels and longevity in humans and animal models.
- Aging involves complex changes in TH modulation across different tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how thyroid hormone signaling is modulated during aging.
- To investigate the link between TH signaling and aging, beyond classical mitochondrial effects.
- To propose a hypothesis regarding TH signaling constraints for optimal aging.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing human and animal model studies.
- Analysis of TH's role in metabolic regulation.
- Exploration of less-explored factors linking TH to aging.
Main Results:
- Classical links include TH effects on mitochondria, reactive oxygen species, and DNA damage.
- Caloric restriction, an aging retardant, reduces circulating TH and metabolism.
- Other potential links involve TH's effects on membrane composition, inflammation, stem cells, and circadian rhythms.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid hormone signaling is intricately linked to aging processes.
- Beyond mitochondrial effects, TH influences aging via membrane composition, inflammation, stem cell renewal, and light synchronization.
- Constraining TH signaling during maturity may be advantageous for optimal aging and maintaining homeostasis.
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