Related Experiment Videos
Uptake of biogenic amines by thyroid glands
Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
|August 1, 1976
Summary
Thyroid follicular cells take up serotonin (5-HT), suggesting it acts as an intrathyroidal transmitter. Adrenergic nerves uptake norepinephrine, indicating distinct roles for these biogenic amines in thyroid function.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Biogenic amines like serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine are endogenous thyroid constituents.
- These amines are known to activate thyroid follicular cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the uptake mechanisms of serotonin and norepinephrine by thyroid lobes in vitro.
- To determine the cellular localization and potential roles of these biogenic amines within the thyroid.
Main Methods:
- In vitro incubation of thyroid lobes with serotonin and norepinephrine.
- Uptake studies measuring amine concentration dependence and temperature effects.
- Inhibition assays using specific drugs (chlorimipramine, desmethylimipramine) and chemical sympathetomy (6-hydroxydopamine).
- Electron microscopic radioautography to identify cellular sites of amine uptake.
Main Results:
- Serotonin (5-HT) uptake by thyroid lobes is temperature and concentration dependent.
- Serotonin uptake is inhibited by norepinephrine, chlorimipramine, and desmethylimipramine, but not by chemical sympathetomy.
- Electron microscopic radioautography confirmed follicular cells are responsible for 5-HT uptake and adrenergic nerves for norepinephrine uptake.
Conclusions:
- Biogenic amines, serotonin and norepinephrine, function as intrathyroidal transmitters acting on follicular cells.
- Specific uptake mechanisms for these amines by follicular cells and adrenergic nerves may contribute to their inactivation within the thyroid.