Skip to main content

Thyroid Hormone Pathway

Meaning

The Thyroid Hormone Pathway describes the entire complex cascade of physiological processes involved in the synthesis, secretion, transport, peripheral conversion, and ultimate action of thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). This pathway is centrally regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis and is essential for regulating the body’s basal metabolic rate, cardiac function, and neurological development. Clinical assessment of this pathway requires evaluating multiple components, including TSH, T4, and T3, to accurately diagnose and manage thyroid dysfunction. Disruptions at any point in this pathway can lead to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.