What is the Origin of Thyroid Cofactors?

A term combining 'thyroid,' referring to the gland and its hormones, with 'cofactors,' which are non-protein chemical compounds required for an enzyme's activity. This highlights the crucial nutritional dependency of this core endocrine system.

What is the Mechanism of Thyroid Cofactors?

These micronutrients function as enzymatic assistants at critical steps; for instance, iodine is incorporated into the thyroglobulin structure, while selenium is indispensable for the deiodinase enzymes. These deiodinases are responsible for converting the less active thyroxine (T4) into the highly potent triiodothyronine (T3) hormone at the tissue level.

Thyroid Cofactors ∞ Area

Thyroid Cofactors

Meaning

Thyroid Cofactors are the essential micronutrients, including specific vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, that are absolutely necessary for the complete biological lifecycle of thyroid hormones, from their initial synthesis in the gland to their final action within the target cell. Key examples include iodine, selenium, zinc, iron, and the amino acid tyrosine. Deficiencies in any cofactor can compromise the entire thyroid axis.