NAc-3-T1AM: a novel hormone connecting thyroid and cardiovascular function

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Lutz Schomburg, since 9/2017
• Subject Area: Endocrinology, Diabetology, Metabolism
• Term: from 2015 to 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 280123330

Several risk factors such as thyroid dysfunction and hypertonia have been identified to predispose to cardiovascular disorders; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still not completely understood. In our previous work, we described the first in vivo characterization of a novel endogenous thyroid hormone derivative, N-acetyl-3-iodothyronamine (NAc-3-T1AM), which is produced by liver and white fat from 3-iodothyronamine. The new hormone increases heart rate and blood pressure potentially by activating beta-adrenergic signaling on cardiomyocytes. The main goal of this research project is to unravel the molecular mechanisms of NAc-3-T1AM biosynthesis and metabolism and beta-adrenergic signaling in the heart using novel in vivo and in vitro techniques. Furthermore, we aim to establish a reliable quantification method for NAc-3-T1AM in human serum to study the influence of NAc-3-T1AM on thyroid hormone metabolism, aging, body weight and cardiac disorders. NAc-3-T1AM constitutes a previously unknown TH metabolite controlling cardiac function with several subsequent implications for the pathophysiology of CVDs. Thus we will enhance our understanding of thyronamine metabolism and action in cardiovascular function with a potentially significant benefit for human health.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 1629: THYROID TRANS ACT - Translation of Thyroid Hormone Actions beyond Classical Concepts
• Ehemalige Antragstellerin: Carolin Stephanie Höfig, Ph.D., until 8/2017