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Published on: January 7, 2018
Thyroid Hormone Regulation and Insulin Resistance: Insights From Animals Naturally Adapted to Fasting
Bridget Martinez1, Rudy M Ortiz2
1Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of California, Merced, California bmartinez26@ucmerced.edu.
Abstract:
The contribution of thyroidal status in insulin signaling and glucose homeostasis has been implicated as a potential pathophysiological factor in humans, but the specific mechanisms remain largely elusive. Fasting induces changes in both thyroid hormone secretion and insulin signaling. Here, we explore how mammals that undergo natural, prolonged bouts of fasting provide unique insight into evolved physiological adaptations that allow them to tolerate such conditions despite intermittent states of reversible insulin resistance. Such insights from nature may provide clues to better understand the basis of thyroidal involvement in insulin dysregulation in humans.
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