Abstract
Introduction: Tissue factor (TF) is a cellular element that initiates the coagulation cascade. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the most common thyroid dysfunctions and several coagulation and hemostatic abnormalities occur in thyroid disorders. The study aims to investigate the effects of thyroid dysfunction on TF activity in the tissues, such as brain, liver, and kidney tissues, and on TF levels in sera of rats.
Methods: Thirty rats were divided equally into 3 groups: 1. Controls, 2. Hypothyroid group, 3. Hyperthyroid group. Methimazole (75 mg/100 g diet) was added to the diet of the hypothyroid group, and L-thyroxine (0.4 mg/100 g diet) was added to the diet of the hyperthyroid group to obtain experimental groups. Controls were fed with standard chow. TF activities were determined in brain, liver and kidney tissues, while TF levels were investigated in sera.
Results: In brain, liver, and kidney tissues, significant decreases were observed in TF activities of both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid rats compared to the controls. Sera TF levels increased significantly in both hypo- and hyperthyroid rats than those of controls.
Conclusion: Coagulation abnormalities can be developed and coronary artery diseases might be triggered by hypo- and hyperthyroidism.