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Updated: Mar 27, 2026

Author Spotlight: In Vivo Assessment of Thyroid Hormone Disruption Using the THAI Mouse Model
Published on: October 6, 2023
Emerging role of thyroid hormone metabolites
D Gnocchi1, K R Steffensen1, G Bruscalupi2
1Division of Clinical Chemistry, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet at Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
Thyroid hormones (THs) regulate development and metabolism via genomic and short-term effects. Emerging research highlights TH metabolites as key regulators of these physiological processes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Metabolism Research
Background:
- Thyroid hormones (THs) are crucial for regulating development and metabolism.
- THs exert effects through nuclear receptors (genomic) and signaling pathways (short-term).
- Previously overlooked TH metabolites are now recognized for significant biological actions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of thyroid hormone physiological roles and mechanisms.
- To highlight the emerging importance of TH metabolites in regulating physiology and metabolism.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of thyroid hormone action.
- Analysis of genomic and non-genomic signaling pathways.
- Examination of the roles of TH metabolites.
Main Results:
- THs impact gene expression and activate signaling pathways.
- Short-term effects, mediated by various receptors, can influence genomic actions.
- TH metabolites demonstrate a broad range of physiological and metabolic regulatory actions.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid hormones are essential regulators with diverse mechanisms of action.
- TH metabolites are increasingly recognized as critical players in physiological regulation.
- Further research into TH metabolites will deepen our understanding of metabolism and development.
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