Serum Klotho protein level in patients with thyroid dysfunction.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Biochemistry
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Thyroid dysfunction, encompassing hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, affects numerous individuals globally.
• Identifying reliable biomarkers for thyroid dysfunction is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
• Klotho, a protein hormone, has emerged as a potential factor in various physiological processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of Klotho as a novel biomarker in thyroid dysfunction.
• To determine the correlation between serum Klotho levels and established thyroid function parameters.
• To assess the diagnostic accuracy of Klotho in differentiating thyroid dysfunction from healthy controls.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 77 patients with thyroid dysfunction (21 hyperthyroid, 56 hypothyroid) and 30 healthy controls were recruited.
• Serum Klotho protein levels were quantified using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).
• Thyroid hormones (T3, T4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), creatinine, and lipid profiles were measured using standard biochemical assays.

Main Results:

• Serum Klotho levels were significantly lower in both hyperthyroid (p < 0.001) and hypothyroid (p < 0.001) patients compared to controls.
• Klotho protein levels demonstrated a significant negative correlation with TSH, creatinine concentrations, and age.
• The study achieved excellent diagnostic accuracy (AUC) in distinguishing thyroid dysfunction from healthy individuals.

Conclusions:

• Serum Klotho levels are significantly decreased in patients with thyroid dysfunction, with a more pronounced reduction observed in hypothyroidism.
• The inverse correlation between Klotho, TSH, and age suggests its potential as a sensitive indicator in thyroid disease.
• Klotho shows promise as a valuable diagnostic marker for thyroid dysfunction.