Background of cTSH
The Canine Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (cTSH), as known by its name, is a hormone released by the thyrotropic cells in the canine’s anterior pituitary gland. It is integral to the function and health of dogs’ bodies due to its crucial role in stimulating the thyroid gland, which in turn, regulates the metabolism of the body.
The discovery of cTSH dates back to the late 1900s when scientists noted an active component in the pituitary gland. It took years of research to firmly establish the role of the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) in dogs and its crucial functions in their body metabolism.
The gene locus of cTSH is located on chromosome 1q43. This gene codes for a protein known as the beta subunit of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, which, together with the alpha subunit, forms a heterodimer known as TSH. These two subunits, mostly the beta subunit, create a protein structure that enables TSH to interact with its receptor on the surface of the thyroid gland.
cTSH Function and signal pathway
cTSH has a single function to stimulate the thyroid gland. This is a small gland located near the trachea of the neck and this crucial hormone stimulates its growth and function. It triggers the thyroid gland to produce triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), two hormones necessary for ensuring a healthy metabolism and overall growth of the canine body.
cTSH controls a vital signaling pathway, the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/ Protein Kinase A pathway. By binding to the TSH receptor on the thyroid gland, cTSH catalyzes an enzyme to generate cAMP. This second messenger can activate Protein Kinase A, which leads to a sequence of various intracellular events to regulate thyroid hormone production.
cTSH related diseases
Addressing cTSH-related diseases, an over or under secretion of cTSH can cause thyroid gland disorders. Hypothyroidism is a common disease that occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Clinical signs include lethargy, weight gain, cold intolerance, and changes in the coat and skin. Conversely, excessive TSH can lead to hyperthyroidism causing weight loss, increased appetite, hyperactivity, and a rapid heart rate.
In the field of medicine, cTSH not only aids in the diagnosis but can also help in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment for hypothyroidism. The cTSH test is now widely used throughout the veterinary medicine community to measure the level of thyroid stimulation in dogs. This is a simple blood test that measures the cTSH level as an assessment of the overall thyroid function.
List of drug candidates related to cTSH
The list of drug candidates related to cTSH is wide-ranging. There are synthetic versions of dog TSH available in the market as well as replacements for T3 and T4 hormones - levothyroxine is a commonly used synthetic hormone. Moreover, there are medications available to inhibit the production of excessive thyroid hormones in cases of hyperthyroidism.
In conclusion, the Canine Thyroid Stimulating Hormone plays a vital role in the functioning of the canine body. Understanding the details of cTSH, from its discovery and genetic background to its function and related diseases, is fundamental for all veterinary professionals. Disease associated with cTSH indicates a deep understanding of the paramount role played by the thyroid gland in dogs' overall health. The advancements in drugs and medications related to this hormone have provided an efficient solution to curing or managing the conditions related to it, thus improving the overall quality of life for dogs.
