Association of serum reverse triiodothyronine, diiodothyronine and thyronamine levels with cardiovascular risk factors and disorders

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Potential associations of thyroid function with cardiovascular disorders in subjects with euthyroidism or subclinical dysfunction are the matter of debate and ongoing controversy. Emerging markers of thyroid function including reverse T3 (rT3), diiodothyronine (T2) and T1 thyronamine (T1AM) may refine the definition of peripheral thyroid dysfunction and may hence improve the validity of association analyses for cardiovascular disorders.The comprehensive examination program of the population-based Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP) offers unique options to analyze the complex associations of serum rT3, T2 and T1AM levels with cardiovascular disorders. The overall aim of the project is to confirm the hypothesis that serum rT3, T2 and T1AM levels are associated with cardiovascular risk factors and disorders. Specifically, we will address three major areas of cardiovascular disorders. First, we will assess the putative associations of serum rT3, T2 and T1AM levels with resting and exercise induced hypertension. Second, the relations with subclinical markers of atherosclerosis will be investigated. These markers include atherosclerotic wall alterations as defined by MR aortography, carotid intima-media thickness, carotid plaques, ankle-brachial index and endothelial dysfunction. Finally, associations of serum rT3, T2 and T1AM levels with subclinical precursors of heart failure including impaired systolic and diastolic ventricular function and limited exercise capacity will be analyzed.Depending on the availability of cardiovascular phenotypes in the SHIP data set, statistical analyses will be done on a cross-sectional or longitudinal basis. All analyses will be adjusted for major confounders and will address the potential balance between established and emerging markers of peripheral thyroid function.From the project we expect deeper insight into the association between thyroid function and cardiovascular disorders. Particularly, findings from this project may help clinicians in finding the right treatment decisions for patients with subclinical thyroid dysfunction.