Skip to main content

Deiodinase

Meaning

Deiodinase refers to a family of enzymes that are essential for the activation and inactivation of thyroid hormones by selectively removing iodine atoms from the thyronine molecule. These enzymes are pivotal in regulating the local concentration of the biologically active hormone, triiodothyronine (T3), within specific tissues, irrespective of circulating thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) or thyroxine (T4) levels. Clinically, deiodinase activity is a key determinant of thyroid hormone action and tissue-specific metabolism, playing a central role in energy expenditure, thermogenesis, and growth. Understanding their function is vital for interpreting thyroid health beyond simple blood tests.