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Thyrotropin receptor expression in adrenal, kidney, and thymus
C M Dutton1, W Joba, C Spitzweg
1Division of Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic/Foundation, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
Thyroid : Official Journal of the American Thyroid Association
|February 12, 1998
Summary
Thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) mRNA and protein were detected in extrathyroidal tissues like the thymus, adrenal glands, and kidneys. This finding challenges the long-held belief that TSHR is exclusively found in the thyroid gland.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunohistochemistry
Background:
- The thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) is traditionally considered thyroid-specific.
- Its presence in extrathyroidal tissues remains a subject of debate due to low abundance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect and quantify TSHR mRNA in extrathyroidal tissues.
- To confirm TSHR protein presence using immunohistochemistry.
Main Methods:
- Liquid hybridization analysis (LHA) for mRNA detection and quantification.
- Immunohistochemical studies for protein localization.
- Analysis of normal thyroid, Graves' thyroid, thymus, adrenal, and kidney tissues.
Main Results:
- TSHR mRNA (intact and variant forms) detected in thyroid, thymus, adrenal, and kidney tissues.
- TSHR protein-like reactivity observed in thymus, adrenal, and kidney.
- Consistent full-length to variant transcript ratios across positive tissues.
Conclusions:
- TSHR expression is not limited to the thyroid gland.
- Extrathyroidal TSHR mRNA and protein are measurable.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the physiological or pathological roles of extrathyroidal TSHR.