Interferon-α Triggers Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases via Lysosomal-Dependent Degradation of Thyroglobulin.

ABSTRACT: Context:Autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs) arise from complex interactions among genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Thyroglobulin (TG) is a major susceptibility gene for both Graves disease and Hashimoto thyroiditis. Interferon-α (IFNα), a cytokine secreted during viral infections, has emerged as a key trigger of AITD. We have shown that IFNα upregulates TG transcription; however, how the upregulation of TG transcription by IFNα triggers AITD is still unknown. Objective:To evaluate how IFNα triggers AITD by testing its effects on TG processing. Design:We exposed human thyroid cells to IFNα and evaluated its effects on TG expression and processing. Results:Human thyroid cells exposed to INFα had increased levels of TG mRNA but reduced TG protein levels, indicating TG protein d

SUBMITTER: Faustino LC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6179164 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature