tyreotropinfrisättande

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone, often abbreviated as TRH, is a decapeptide produced in the hypothalamus of the brain. It plays a crucial role in the endocrine system, specifically in regulating the production of thyroid hormones. TRH acts on the anterior pituitary gland, stimulating it to release another hormone called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), also known as thyrotropin. This release is part of a feedback loop.

When TRH binds to receptors on the cells of the anterior pituitary, it triggers a cascade of events that leads to the synthesis and secretion of TSH into the bloodstream. TSH then travels to the thyroid gland, where it stimulates the production and release of thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These thyroid hormones are essential for regulating metabolism, growth, and development throughout the body.

The release of TRH is itself regulated by the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood. High levels of T3 and T4 exert a negative feedback effect on both the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary, suppressing the release of TRH and TSH. Conversely, low levels of thyroid hormones lead to increased TRH and TSH secretion, thereby boosting thyroid hormone production. This intricate feedback mechanism ensures that thyroid hormone levels are maintained within a narrow, optimal range. TRH is also involved in other physiological processes, including thermoregulation and behavioral responses.