Iodine hormone synthesis is the biochemical process by which the thyroid gland incorporates the essential trace mineral iodine into the structure of the amino acid tyrosine to create the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). This process is the foundational step in thyroid function, as iodine atoms are absolutely necessary for the biological activity of these metabolic hormones. Adequate dietary intake and efficient uptake of iodine are prerequisites for maintaining euthyroid status and optimal systemic metabolism. Insufficient iodine availability leads directly to impaired hormone production and compensatory thyroid gland enlargement.
Origin
The critical role of iodine in thyroid function has been known since the early 20th century, leading to widespread iodization of salt to combat endemic goiter and cretinism. The detailed biochemical pathway was later elucidated through advances in endocrinology. The term refers to the specific series of reactions that occur within the follicular cells of the thyroid gland.
Mechanism
The process begins with the active transport of iodide ions from the bloodstream into the thyroid follicular cells, a process called iodide trapping. Within the colloid, the iodide is oxidized to iodine by the enzyme thyroid peroxidase (TPO), which then catalyzes the iodination of tyrosine residues on the thyroglobulin protein. This results in the formation of monoiodotyrosine (MIT) and diiodotyrosine (DIT), which are subsequently coupled to form T4 (DIT + DIT) and T3 (MIT + DIT), the primary hormones released into circulation.
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