The Lancet – Global Health – Iodine is estimated to be the #1 Micronutrient Deficiency
A Role for Iodide and Thyroglobulin in Modulating the Function of Human Immune Cells
Increased concentration of iodide in airway secretions is associated with reduced respiratory syncytial virus disease severity
Thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) indirectly increase the production of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in the liver by elevating the levels of hepatocyte nuclear factor-4alpha (HNF-4alpha) and reducing cellular palmitate levels. Experiments with HepG2 cells and transgenic mice showed that prolonged thyroid hormone treatment raises SHBG mRNA and protein levels while enhancing HNF-4alpha expression. The response depends on reduced palmitate levels and HNF-4alpha activity, as blocking these pathways inhibits SHBG production. These findings demonstrate that thyroid hormones regulate SHBG indirectly through metabolic and transcriptional changes.
