Thyroid hormone receptor alpha

Thyroid hormone receptor alpha

The thyroid hormone receptor alpha (TRα) is a type of nuclear receptor that is activated by binding thyroid hormone. TRα is one of the several receptors for thyroid hormone and has been shown to mediate the biological activities of thyroid hormone.

Structure

The TRα protein is encoded by the THRA gene. The protein structure of TRα includes a DNA-binding domain and a ligand-binding domain. The DNA-binding domain recognizes and binds to specific sequences of DNA, while the ligand-binding domain binds to the thyroid hormone.

Function

TRα is involved in controlling key physiological processes, including metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. It does this by binding to thyroid hormone response elements (TREs) in the DNA and regulating the transcription of target genes.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the THRA gene can lead to resistance to thyroid hormone alpha (RTHα), a rare disorder characterized by tissue-specific hypothyroidism. Symptoms of RTHα can include growth retardation, constipation, and developmental delay.

See also

• Thyroid hormone receptor
• Thyroid hormone receptor beta
• Nuclear receptor
• THRA