Specific GH secretagogue binding sites were detected in normal human thyroid tissue and in thyroid cancers, with higher density in medullary thyroid carcinoma, raising questions about GH peptide effects on the thyroid.
Highest in medullary carcinomaGHS receptor density was highest in medullary thyroid cancer, suggesting potential as a diagnostic marker or therapeutic target
What the researchers found
Specific GHS binding sites were detected in normal and neoplastic human thyroid tissue, with highest density in medullary thyroid carcinoma, suggesting GH secretagogues may affect thyroid biology and that GHS-R could serve as a thyroid cancer marker.
Why it matters
If GH secretagogues affect the thyroid, this has safety implications for people using these peptides. Additionally, elevated GHS-R in thyroid cancer could serve as a diagnostic or therapeutic target.
How the study worked
In-vitro binding study using 125I-Tyr-Ala-hexarelin on membrane preparations from normal human thyroid and various thyroid tumors. Binding affinity and density characterized across tissue types.
What this study cannot tell us
In-vitro binding study. Functional consequences of GHS-R activation in thyroid tissue were not tested. Limited tumor sample numbers.
How to read the evidence
Preliminary in-vitro binding evidence in human tissue providing clear receptor characterization data across thyroid tissue types.
When this study was published
Published in 2000. The clinical significance of GHS-R in thyroid tissue continues to be investigated.
The bigger picture
GH secretagogue receptors are being found in an increasing number of tissues beyond the pituitary. Each new location raises questions about both therapeutic opportunities and safety considerations.
Questions still open
- Could GH secretagogue use affect thyroid function or thyroid nodule growth?
- Can GHS-R imaging detect thyroid cancers?
- Does GHS-R activation promote or inhibit thyroid cancer cell growth?
Common questions
Should GH peptide users worry about their thyroid?
Could this help detect thyroid cancer?
Read the original research
Specific binding sites for synthetic growth hormone secretagogues in non-tumoral and neoplastic human thyroid tissue.
The Journal of endocrinology, 165(1), 139-46
Citation
Cassoni, P; Papotti, M; Catapano, F; Ghè, C; Deghenghi, R; Ghigo, E; Muccioli, G. (2000). Specific binding sites for synthetic growth hormone secretagogues in non-tumoral and neoplastic human thyroid tissue.. The Journal of endocrinology, 165(1), 139-46.