THYROTROPE Meaning and
Definition
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A thyrotrope is a specialized type of endocrine cell found in the anterior pituitary gland that produces and releases the hormone thyrotropin, also known as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH is a glycoprotein hormone responsible for regulating the functioning of the thyroid gland.
Thyrotropes constitute a significant population within the anterior pituitary and play a vital role in maintaining proper thyroid function. These cells are under the control of hypothalamic thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), which stimulates thyrotrope secretion of TSH. The thyrotrope cells possess specific receptors for TRH and respond to its binding by initiating a cascade of intracellular reactions that lead to TSH release.
The primary function of thyrotropes is to regulate the production and release of TSH, which in turn controls the synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland. TSH acts on the thyroid gland, stimulating the synthesis and release of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), two hormones crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and development in the body.
Overall, thyrotropes, as part of the endocrine system, contribute to the intricate balance and control of thyroid hormone levels, ensuring their proper functioning throughout the body. Dysregulation of these cells or abnormalities in the production of TSH can result in imbalances in thyroid hormone levels, leading to disorders such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
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One who has a thyroid type of constitution.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for THYROTROPE
- rhyrotrope
- fhyrotrope
- ghyrotrope
- yhyrotrope
- 6hyrotrope
- 5hyrotrope
- tgyrotrope
- tbyrotrope
- tnyrotrope
- tjyrotrope
- tuyrotrope
- tyyrotrope
- thtrotrope
- thgrotrope
- thhrotrope
- thurotrope
- th7rotrope
- th6rotrope
- thyeotrope
- thydotrope
Etymology of THYROTROPE
The word "thyrotrope" has a Greek origin. It is derived from two Greek roots: "thyro" meaning "thyroid gland" and "tropos" meaning "to turn" or "to direct". Hence, "thyrotrope" refers to a substance or entity that acts on or regulates the functions of the thyroid gland.
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