Biosynthesis and Function of Thyroid Hormones

Dear Colleagues,

Thyroid hormones (THs) and their metabolites are signaling molecules with a unique structure containing the essential trace element iodine. Due to the biochemical properties of these small tyrosine amino-acid-derived hormones, TH biosynthesis is an extraordinary, evolutionarily conserved process requiring structural and functional features that only the thyroid gland and its angiofollicular units can provide. THs govern major functions in embryonic development, cellular differentiation, and the energy metabolism of all vertebrate organisms and their evolutionary precursors. The effects of endogenous THs are predominantly exerted by the active hormone T3 which binds to intracellular, mainly nuclear, T3 receptors (TRs) that act as transcription factors. While the importance of iodide for the thyroid gland and several physiological effects of THs have already been known for over 100 years, current research on TH biosynthesis and function continues to provide major novel insights into molecular details and structures underlying the processes of generating THs and executing their multiple, clinically relevant functions.

With this Special Issue, we would like to invite and encourage colleagues to provide topical overviews and share novel data on TH biosynthesis—in principle largely known but exceptional in molecular and functional details. The development and adaptable functions of follicular units to endogenous and environmental demands still hold several unexplored research challenges. We would also like to provide the opportunity for long-standing TH researchers as well as colleagues in neighboring research areas to share their knowledge on the function and actions of THs within whole organisms, organs, and cells and to identify and raise open research questions. While there is a good level of knowledge about classic TH target organs, other multicellular organ systems are only on the verge of recognition as relevant TH targets. Therefore, new insights into TH function will certainly generate further opportunities for the utilization and modulation of systemic and local TH availability and activity in physiology and pathophysiology.

Original research and review articles are welcome in this Special Issue.

We look forward to your contributions, which will provide current information on TH biosynthesis and action and broaden the topic.

Prof. Dr. Josef Koehrle
Dr. Eva K. Wirth
Guest Editors

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• thyroid gland
• thyroid follicle
• TH release
• iodide
• deiodinase
• TH transmembrane transport
• TH receptors
• intracellular TH binding proteins
• thyroglobulin
• sodium–iodide symporter
• thyroperoxidase
• dual oxidase
• thyroid-relevant trace elements