Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is distinguished by the existence of autoantibodies, specifically thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAbs) and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAbs), which initiate an assault on the thyroid tissue, resulting in damage. Our organization is deeply committed to driving progress in the field of Hashimoto's thyroiditis through the provision of state-of-the-art diagnostic solutions and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches.
Overview of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, alternatively referred to as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis or Hashimoto's disease, represents an autoimmune disorder wherein the immune system erroneously targets the thyroid gland, triggering chronic inflammation and consequent harm to thyroid tissue. This detrimental process impairs the production of vital thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4), ultimately leading to the development of hypothyroidism.
Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, with certain human leukocyte antigen (HLA) variants, such as HLA-DR3 and HLA-DR5, being associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. Environmental factors, including viral infections, iodine exposure, and certain medications, have also been implicated in triggering Hashimoto's thyroiditis. These factors can initiate an autoimmune response, leading to the production of autoantibodies that target thyroid-specific proteins, such as TPO and thyroglobulin.
Fig.1 Overview and natural history of Hashimoto thyroiditis. (Klubo-Gwiezdzinska J., et al., 2022)
Drug Discovery and Development for Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Currently, the primary therapeutic for Hashimoto's thyroiditis is hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine (LT4). LT4 is a synthetic form of thyroxine that helps restore thyroid hormone levels and alleviate the symptoms of hypothyroidism. It is crucial to monitor thyroid function regularly and adjust LT4 dosage to maintain optimal hormone levels.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in developing novel drug therapies for Hashimoto's thyroiditis. These therapies aim to modulate the autoimmune response, reduce inflammation, and potentially halt or slow down the progression of the disease. Our company is at the forefront of such developments, offering innovative solutions for Hashimoto's thyroiditis therapeutics. Please click on the links below to learn more about our therapy services.
Our Services
At our company, we are committed to advancing diagnostics and therapeutic options for Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Our therapy development services focus on innovative approaches to modulate the autoimmune response and reduce inflammation associated with the disease. Disease models play a crucial role in understanding the pathogenesis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and evaluating potential therapeutic interventions. Our company specializes in the development of preclinical disease models that accurately mimic the disease's characteristics and progression.
TPO-Induced Models
One of the key autoantigens involved in Hashimoto's thyroiditis is thyroid peroxidase (TPO). Autoantibodies against TPO play a critical role in the destruction of thyroid tissue. By immunizing animals with TPO or TPO-derived peptides, we can induce the production of autoantibodies against TPO.
TG-Induced Models
Autoantibodies against thyroglobulin (TG) contribute to the destruction of thyroid tissue and the development of hypothyroidism. Our company provides TG-induced model development services to facilitate the study of TG-related immune responses and disease progression.
TSHR-Induced Models
The thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) is implicated in the pathogenesis of Graves' disease, an autoimmune condition closely related to Hashimoto's thyroiditis. By immunizing animals with TSHR or TSHR-derived peptides, we can induce the production of TSHR autoantibodies and mimic the autoimmune response seen in Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Our cell-based models, including primary thyroid cell cultures and co-culture models, provide valuable insights into the immune-thyroid interactions and disease progression. Additionally, our organoid models, such as thyroid organoids and immune-thyroid co-culture organoids, allow for the investigation of complex cellular interactions within the thyroid gland.
Through rigorous experimentation and analysis, we generate valuable data on drug candidates, including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and toxicology profiles. In addition to the aforementioned services and models, we also provide customized solutions and develop disease models that cater specifically to your unique needs. If our services have piqued your interest, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Reference
- Klubo-Gwiezdzinska Joanna, and Leonard Wartofsky. "Hashimoto thyroiditis: an evidence-based guide to etiology, diagnosis and treatment." Polish archives of internal medicine 132.3 (2022).