Recombinant Human Thyroglobulin protein

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Thyroglobulin often abbreviated as Tg is a glycoprotein with a molecular mass of approximately 660 kDa. It is expressed primarily in the thyroid gland particularly within the follicular cells. This protein serves as a precursor for thyroid hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). High thyroglobulin levels in the bloodstream can indicate altered thyroid function and clinicians frequently measure these levels for diagnostic purposes. Researchers have developed specific anti-thyroglobulin antibodies to facilitate the study and measurement of this protein in various contexts.

Biological function summary

Thyroglobulin plays a critical role in the synthesis and storage of thyroid hormones. It acts as a scaffold for iodination and hormone synthesis within the colloid of thyroid follicles. Thyroglobulin is not part of a protein complex; rather it undergoes iodination to form hormone precursors that later convert into active hormones. Anti-thyroglobulin antibodies can be used in research or diagnostic labs to detect the presence or concentration of thyroglobulin in serum samples. These antibodies help in understanding the nuances of thyroid hormone biosynthesis and in monitoring thyroid activity.

Pathways

Thyroglobulin is deeply involved in the thyroid hormone synthesis pathway a fundamental part of the endocrine system's operations. This process connects closely with the iodine metabolism pathway as iodine plays an essential role in hormone production. Thyroglobulin interacts indirectly with proteins like thyroid peroxidase which catalyzes iodination of thyroglobulin. The synthesis and release of thyroid hormones proceed through a carefully orchestrated sequence affecting many physiological processes including metabolism growth and development.

Associated diseases and disorders

Thyroglobulin has associations with conditions such as thyroid cancer and autoimmune thyroid diseases. For instance elevated serum thyroglobulin can serve as a tumor marker in differentiated thyroid cancer. Anti-thyroglobulin antibodies are often present in autoimmune thyroid diseases like Hashimoto's thyroiditis where the body's immune system mistakenly targets thyroid proteins. Thyroid peroxidase antibodies are also common in these disorders indicating a shared autoimmune response against thyroid-specific antigens. Understanding these relationships aids in the diagnosis and management of thyroid-related conditions.