Thyroid

Abstract

Preface: The highlight of the year in basic thyroidology is the description of the molecular architecture of the thyroglobulin dimer. For decades, small pieces of knowledge were accumulated that are now integrated into the complete picture of the thyroglobulin glycoprotein three-dimensional structure as well as the few key functional hormonogenic tyrosine residues which allow thyroxine and tri-iodothyronine synthesis. Genetic research revealed new and unexpected molecular mechanisms causing Pendred syndrome and autosomal dominant familial multinodular goiter. In clinical thyroidology, important trials showed the effectiveness of new therapeutic approaches for Graves’ orbitopathy and for MTC8 deficiency but failed to provide evidence for a beneficial effect of thyroid hormones in early life on psychomotor development in euthyroid children with Down syndrome. Finally, preliminary results on the association of air pollution and mild maternal hypothyroxinemia during pregnancy were confirmed in a large study investigating 5 different cohorts. In summary, the year in thyroidology is again characterized by fascinating insights into thyroid biology and important clinical progress for diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases.