|
|
The Iodine Group | |
|
Home | Orthoiodosupplementation | Body | Disease | Special | Overviews |
||
|
|
Moore
Understanding TSH Receptor AntibodiesMoore E
"All of the body's cells have surface proteins known as receptors. These receptors are like doorways that allow cells to receive messages or signals from other proteins, for instance, hormones. Normally, only the pituitary hormone TSH reacts with the TSH receptor. TSH latches to the TSH receptor and orders thyroid cells to produce more thyroid hormone. Normally, TSH is secreted in small pulses throughout the day, ensuring that we have enough thyroid hormone for our body's needs.
"What are TRAB then and how do they cause disease? TRAb are similar to TSH in that they too can react with the TSH receptor on thyroid and orbital cells. When TRAb react with the thyroid cell receptor, the action they cause depends on their type.
"Stimulating antibodies stimulate or order the receptor to produce more thyroid hormone. In this way, they mimic TSH and act in its place. Over time, as levels of these antibodies increase, they cause hyperthyroidism. Blocking TRAb block TSH from reacting with the TSH receptor, and cause hypothyroidism. They also block stimulating TRAb from reacting with the cells, offering protection from TSI. Binding antibodies take up space on the receptor, but they don't latch on the way blocking antibodies do. Their effects are more transient and subtle, and they have little effect on thyroid hormone production.
"The most important fact about TRAb: The type of antibody that's predominant determines what type of thyroid disorder one has."
|
|
Home | Orthoiodosupplementation | Body | Disease | Special Topics | OverviewsThe Iodine Group | Books | Disclaimers | Contact Us | Search
|
||
