Thyroid follicular cell
Type of cell in the thyroid gland
| Latin | cellula follicularis glandulae thyroideae |
|---|---|
| Precursor | Endoderm |
| System | Endocrine system |
| Location | Thyroid gland |
Thyroid follicular cells, also known as thyrocytes, are the primary cell type found in the thyroid gland. These cells are responsible for the production and secretion of thyroid hormones, including triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).
Structure[edit | edit source]
Thyroid follicular cells are arranged in spherical clusters known as thyroid follicles. Each follicle is filled with a colloid substance primarily composed of thyroglobulin, a precursor to thyroid hormones. The cells themselves are cuboidal to columnar in shape and have a central nucleus.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of thyroid follicular cells is the synthesis and release of thyroid hormones. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development.
Hormone Synthesis[edit | edit source]
The process of thyroid hormone synthesis involves several steps:
- Uptake of iodide from the bloodstream.
- Oxidation of iodide to iodine.
- Iodination of thyroglobulin to form monoiodotyrosine (MIT) and diiodotyrosine (DIT).
- Coupling of MIT and DIT to form T3 and T4.
- Release of T3 and T4 into the bloodstream.
Regulation[edit | edit source]
The activity of thyroid follicular cells is regulated by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the anterior pituitary gland. TSH binds to receptors on the surface of follicular cells, stimulating the synthesis and release of thyroid hormones.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Dysfunction of thyroid follicular cells can lead to various thyroid disorders. Hypothyroidism occurs when there is insufficient production of thyroid hormones, while hyperthyroidism is characterized by excessive hormone production. Thyroid cancer can also originate from follicular cells, with follicular thyroid carcinoma being one of the types.
See also[edit | edit source]
- Thyroid gland
- Thyroid hormone
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone
- Hypothyroidism
- Hyperthyroidism
- Follicular thyroid carcinoma
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
