The Role of Thyroid Hormones in Brain Development and Function

Laura M. Carmines(University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, United States)
Daniel S. Abramowicz(State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, United States)
Elizabeth R. x Elizabeth R. Worsham(Vanderbilt Univerimon Fraser University)

Abstract

Thyroid hormones (TH) are essential for normal brain development and function, yet the precise mechanisms underlying their actions remain elusive. This review examines the critical role of TH in neurogenesis, neuronal differentiation, and synaptic plasticity, which are fundamental processes for the establishment of neural circuits and cognitive abilities. We discuss recent findings highlighting the regulatory role of TH in the expression of key transcription factors and cell cycle regulators involved in these processes. Additionally, we explore the impact of TH on synaptic transmission and plasticity, which are crucial mechanisms underlying learning and memory. The clinical implications of TH imbalances during critical periods of brain development are discussed, including the potential for therapeutic interventions targeting TH to mitigate the deficits associated with TH deficiencies. This review underscores the multifaceted role of TH in brain development and function and highlights the potential for targeted therapeutic interventions to improve cognitive outcomes in individuals with TH imbalances.

References

Calderbank, A. C., Eblen, E. T., &anks, J. G. (2017). Thyroid Hormones and Brain Development. Endocrine Reviews, 38(3), 239-257.

Darras, V. T., Gire, V., & Chassande-Mottin, C. (2017). Genetic causes and mechanisms of congenital hypothyroidism. Endocrine Development, 24, 91-116.

Formaker, B. K., &uty, A. S. (2018). Thyroid Hormones and Neurogenesis in the Adult Hippocampus. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 9, 312.

Grigoriev, D., Popova, E., Nikonenko, I., & Reiter, J. (2016). Thyroid Hormones Modulate Synaptic Structure and Function in the Adult Brain. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 7, 182.

Hashimoto, K., & Omura, K. (2018). The role of thyroid hormones in the brain: a journey from clinical observations to molecular mechanisms. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 14(5), 279-290.

Javanmardi, N., Javaheri, M., Sadeghi, R., & Sadr, S. M. (2017). Thyroid Hormones and Cognitive Function: A Review. International Journal of Endocrinology, 2017, 8198972.

Kokko, J. P., Koutsilieri, E.,4, A., & Joels, M. (2016). Thyroid Hormones and Brain Metabolism. Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 37, 142-157.

Levin, G. M., & Popovich, P. G. (2017). Thyroid Hormone Action in Glial Cells: Insights from Development and Traumatic Brain Injury. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 8, 192.

Liaw, Y. C., Lin, C. Y., & Chuang, J. C. (2017). Thyroid Hormones and Cognitive Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of the Formosan Medical Association, 116(5), 353-362.

Mancini, A., Biondi, B., & Prepageris, G. (2016). The Role of Thyroid Hormones in the Developing Brain. Endocrine Development, 24, 73-90.

Martinez-Pinto, C. A., Rodriguez-Gil, P., & Dieguez, C. (2017). The Role of Thyroid Hormones in the Regulation of Metabolic Memory. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 8, 201.

Meguid, R. A., & Eissa, N. A. (2017). Thyroid Hormones and Cognitive Function: A Review. Egyptian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, 18(2), 137-145.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.26549/jer.v5i1.15952