Definition - What does Thyroxine mean?
Thyroxine is one of the major hormones made by the thyroid gland. Thyroxine is an important regulator of body functions including body temperature, metabolism, growth, development, and heart rate. The thyroxine molecule is formed using 4 iodine atoms and thus is sometimes referred to as T4.
SureHire explains Thyroxine
Thyroxine, along with triiodothyronine (T3), is a thyroid hormone. Thyroxine travels through the blood stream and is then converted to triiodothyronine in the cell where it acts to control metabolism. Production of thyroxine by the thyroid gland is controlled by thyroid stimulating hormone (THS), which is produced by the pituitary gland. If the body produces too much THS, a condition called hyperthyroidism may result. If too little THS is produced, the result is hypothyroidism. Because 4 iodine atoms are needed for the manufacture of each thyroxine molecule, a person must have iodine in their body to produce this hormone. A lack of iodine will stunt the creation of thyroxine in the thyroid and cause the gland to swell into a goiter. Medications or surgery may be necessary to treat conditions related to improper thyroxine production.
