Association Between Thyroid Hormone Sensitivity Indicators and Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) Values in...

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Hepatology
• Metabolic Syndrome

Background:

• Obesity is a primary driver of hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease).
• Despite weight management efforts, the prevalence and complications of hepatic steatosis are rising.
• Novel therapeutic targets are needed to address obesity-related liver disease mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between thyroid hormone (TH) sensitivity indices and hepatic steatosis.
• To assess hepatic steatosis using controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) values in euthyroid individuals with overweight/obesity.

Main Methods:

• Thyroid hormone sensitivity was evaluated using TFQI_FT3, TFQI_FT4, TSHI, TT4RI, TT3RI, and the FT3/FT4 ratio.
• Hepatic steatosis was diagnosed using Vibration-controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE).
• Statistical analyses included linear regression, logistic regression, restricted cubic spline regression, and Bayesian mediation analysis.

Main Results:

• Severe hepatic steatosis was linked to higher TFQI_FT3 and FT3/FT4 ratio.
• Adjusted analyses revealed that TFQI_FT3 and the FT3/FT4 ratio positively correlated with CAP values (indicating hepatic steatosis).
• These associations were independent of blood lipid and liver enzyme levels.

Conclusions:

• Thyroid hormone sensitivity, particularly indicated by TFQI_FT3 and the FT3/FT4 ratio, is significantly associated with hepatic steatosis.
• TFQI_FT3 and the FT3/FT4 ratio may serve as novel predictive indicators for hepatic steatosis in overweight/obese individuals.