Thyroid follicular cell

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(Redirected from Thyroid epithelial cell)

Thyroid follicular cells or thyrocytes are cells in the thyroid gland that produce and secrete thyroid hormones. These cells are unique to the thyroid gland and are essential for the body's metabolism.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Thyroid follicular cells are cuboidal in shape and arranged in spherical follicles. Each follicle is filled with colloid, a proteinaceous depot of thyroglobulin, which is used in the production of thyroid hormones.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of thyroid follicular cells is the production and secretion of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a crucial role in the body's metabolism, growth, and development.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormalities in thyroid follicular cells can lead to various thyroid disorders. For example, overproduction of thyroid hormones can lead to hyperthyroidism, while underproduction can cause hypothyroidism. Additionally, these cells can become cancerous, leading to thyroid cancer.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Template:Thyroid Template:Human cells

Thyroid follicular cell Resources
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Contributors: Bonnu, Prab R. Tumpati, MD