Influence of Abnormal Thyroid Hormone Changes on Lipid Peroxidation and Antioxidant Imbalance in Hypothyroid and Hyperthyroid Patients

Abstract

The thyroid gland is the primary metabolic regulator in the body. Thyroid hormones are required for normal organ development. Thyroid hormones in high concentrations may alter the metabolism of oxygen in cells and stimulate the production of free radicals.  Thyroid hormone has a pro-oxidant effect and increases the production of oxygen free radicals, resulting in a decrease in antioxidant state in hyperthyroidism when compared to normal and hypothyroidism. Thyroxin treatment causes oxidative stress as well. Immune suppression is caused by oxidative stress and hypothyroidism. It appears that thyroid gland plays a central role in generating generalized oxidative stress in diseased condition. Thyroid hormones play an important role in mitochondrial oxidative metabolism regulation. The aim of this study is to look into free radical scavenging activity, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant status in patients with hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. In conclusion, our present study suggests a very high production of ROS and oxidative stress in patients with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism with enhanced lipid peroxidation and concomitant failure of antioxidant defense mechanisms.