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Updated: Jul 16, 2025

Author Spotlight: In Vivo Assessment of Thyroid Hormone Disruption Using the THAI Mouse Model
Published on: October 6, 2023
Gene polymorphisms and thyroid hormone signaling: implication for the treatment of hypothyroidism
Gustavo C Penna1, Federico Salas-Lucia1, Miriam O Ribeiro2
1Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
Introduction:
Mutations and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding the network of proteins involved in thyroid hormone signaling (TH) may have implications for the effectiveness of the treatment of hypothyroidism with LT4. It is conceivable that loss-of-function mutations or SNPs impair the ability of LT4 to be activated to T3, reach its targets, and ultimately resolve symptoms of hypothyroidism. Some of these patients do benefit from therapy containing LT4 and LT3.
Methods:
Here, we reviewed the PubMed and examined gene mutations and SNPs in the TH cellular transporters, deiodinases, and TH receptors, along with their impact on TH signaling, and potential clinical implications.
Results:
In some mechanisms, such as the Thr92Ala-DIO2 SNP, there is a compelling rationale for reduced T4 to T3 activation that limits the effectiveness of LT4 to restore euthyroidism. In other mechanisms, a potential case can be made but more studies with a larger number of individuals are needed.
Discussion/Conclusion:
Understanding the clinical impact of the genetic makeup of LT4-treated patients may help in the preemptive identification of those individuals that would benefit from therapy containing LT3.
Insights
Genetic variations in thyroid hormone (TH) signaling can affect levothyroxine (LT4) treatment effectiveness for hypothyroidism. Understanding these genetic factors may help identify patients who would benefit from combination LT4 and liothyronine (LT3) therapy.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Genetic variations, including mutations and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), in thyroid hormone (TH) signaling pathways can influence treatment outcomes for hypothyroidism.
- These genetic factors may impair the activation of levothyroxine (LT4) to its active form, triiodothyronine (T3), or affect T3's ability to reach target cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and examine gene mutations and SNPs within the TH cellular transport, deiodinase, and receptor systems.
- To assess the impact of these genetic variations on TH signaling and their potential clinical implications for hypothyroidism treatment.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of PubMed.
- Analysis of gene mutations and SNPs in key components of the TH signaling pathway.
- Evaluation of their effects on TH signaling and clinical relevance.
Main Results:
- Specific genetic variations, such as the Thr92Ala-DIO2 SNP, are linked to reduced T4 to T3 conversion, potentially limiting LT4 efficacy.
- While some mechanisms show clear impacts, other genetic influences require further investigation with larger patient cohorts.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the genetic profile of patients undergoing LT4 treatment is crucial for personalized medicine.
- This knowledge can aid in the early identification of individuals who may respond better to combination therapy including LT3.
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