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Thyroid hormones are a group of hormones produced by the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. The primary thyroid hormones are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). T3 is considered the more active form. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism in virtually every cell in the body.

The synthesis of thyroid hormones involves the uptake of iodine from the bloodstream by the thyroid gland, which is then combined with tyrosine, an amino acid. This process is stimulated by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is released by the pituitary gland in the brain. TSH secretion is, in turn, regulated by the hypothalamus through thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). This forms the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis.

Thyroid hormones influence a wide range of bodily functions, including growth and development, particularly in infants and children, and are essential for normal brain development. They affect heart rate, body temperature, and the rate at which the body converts food into energy. They also impact digestion, muscle function, and bone maintenance.

Disruptions in thyroid hormone production can lead to various health conditions. Hypothyroidism, a condition of insufficient thyroid hormone, can cause fatigue, weight gain, and a feeling of coldness. Hyperthyroidism, an excess of thyroid hormone, can lead to weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety. The levels of thyroid hormones in the blood are monitored through blood tests, often measuring TSH, T3, and T4.