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[TSH receptors]
1INSERM U. 197, Faculté de Médecine A. Carrel, Lyon.
Abstract:
It is a paradox that thyroidology often initiates new biological concepts but lags behind in the characterization of the molecular mechanisms involved, the latter progressing more rapidly in other systems. The question of the TSH receptor is an illustration of this. This paper reviews the main aspects of the biochemistry and functions of the TSH receptor. It is stressed that the classical biochemical approach has failed in the elucidation of the structure of the receptor which should benefit from molecular biology methodologies. Experimental difficulties in the study of the TSH binding function of the receptor are also described. Functional pathways activated by the receptor are discussed, especially within the frame of current researches on the thyroid growth effect of TSH. Another important feature concerning the TSH receptor is its implication in the physiopathology of Graves' disease. Auto-anti-TSH receptor antibodies are the hallmark the disease and are responsible for the hyperfunction of the gland. Characterization of the antigenic epitopes of the receptor and biological effects of the various anti-TSH receptor antibodies, both natural polyclonal and experimental monoclonal, is also an area of active research. It is hoped that understanding of Graves' disease will benefit from improvement in our knowledge of the TSH receptor structure and functions.
Insights
The TSH receptor
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Endocrinology
Context:
- Thyroidology often introduces new biological concepts but lags in molecular mechanism characterization.
- The TSH receptor exemplifies this paradox, with its structure elucidation hindered by classical biochemical methods.
- Research on the TSH receptor's structure and function is crucial for advancing thyroidology.
Purpose:
- To review the biochemistry and functions of the TSH receptor.
- To highlight the need for molecular biology methodologies in TSH receptor research.
- To discuss the TSH receptor's role in thyroid growth and Graves' disease.
Summary:
- The TSH receptor's structure remains elusive to classical biochemistry, necessitating molecular biology approaches.
- Functional pathways, including TSH's thyroid growth effect and the TSH receptor's role in Graves' disease, are discussed.
- Research into TSH receptor epitopes and antibodies is vital for understanding Graves' disease pathogenesis.
Impact:
- Advances in TSH receptor molecular biology will enhance understanding of thyroid growth regulation.
- Elucidating TSH receptor structure and function is key to unraveling Graves' disease mechanisms.
- Improved knowledge of the TSH receptor promises significant benefits for thyroidology and autoimmune disease research.