Resveratrol inhibits sodium/iodide symporter gene expression and function in rat thyroid cells

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Molecular Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Resveratrol, a polyphenol from grapes and berries, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative properties.
• It is widely available as a dietary supplement and is being investigated in clinical trials.
• Limited data exist on resveratrol's effects on thyroid function, with prior research showing transient increases in iodide influx.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the long-term effects of resveratrol on iodide uptake and sodium/iodide symporter expression in thyroid cells.
• To evaluate resveratrol's impact on thyroid function both in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the FRTL-5 rat thyroid cell line for in vitro studies.
• Employed Sprague-Dawley rats for in vivo investigations.
• Assessed sodium/iodide symporter RNA and protein expression, and cellular iodide uptake.

Main Results:

• Resveratrol decreased sodium/iodide symporter RNA and protein expression in FRTL-5 cells over time.
• Cellular iodide uptake was reduced by resveratrol after 48 hours of treatment.
• The inhibitory effect on iodide uptake was confirmed in vivo in rats.

Conclusions:

• Long-term resveratrol treatment inhibits sodium/iodide symporter gene expression and function in the thyroid.
• Resveratrol may act as a thyroid disruptor.
• Caution is advised regarding the use of resveratrol supplements and in therapeutic applications.