The autoimmune target in Graves disease is the receptor for which hormone?

Study for the Stevens Immunology-Serology Test. Explore flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations and hints. Get exam ready now!

Multiple Choice

The autoimmune target in Graves disease is the receptor for which hormone?

Explanation:
In Graves disease the immune system makes antibodies that bind to the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor on thyroid cells. These antibodies act like TSH itself, turning on the receptor and triggering the same signaling pathway that drives thyroid hormone production. This causes increased synthesis and release of thyroid hormones and often diffuse thyroid enlargement. Since the autoimmune target is the receptor for thyroid-stimulating hormone, not receptors for ACTH, growth hormone, or LH, the receptor for TSH is the correct target.

In Graves disease the immune system makes antibodies that bind to the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor on thyroid cells. These antibodies act like TSH itself, turning on the receptor and triggering the same signaling pathway that drives thyroid hormone production. This causes increased synthesis and release of thyroid hormones and often diffuse thyroid enlargement. Since the autoimmune target is the receptor for thyroid-stimulating hormone, not receptors for ACTH, growth hormone, or LH, the receptor for TSH is the correct target.

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