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     Western blot analysis of Thyroglobulin expression in Mouse thyroid lysate.    

  
  

Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAbs) are autoantibodies targeting thyroglobulin (Tg), a large glycoprotein produced by thyroid follicular cells. Tg serves as a precursor for thyroid hormone synthesis, storing iodine and providing the backbone for triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) production. TgAbs arise due to immune system dysregulation, often in autoimmune thyroid disorders.

These antibodies are most notably associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease, where they contribute to thyroid tissue destruction or functional disruption. Their presence is a hallmark of autoimmune thyroiditis, aiding in diagnosis alongside other thyroid autoantibodies (e.g., anti-TPO). TgAbs are detected via immunoassays and are present in ~10-20% of healthy individuals, with higher prevalence in women and increasing with age.

Clinically, TgAbs interfere with Tg measurements, complicating monitoring in thyroid cancer patients post-thyroidectomy. Since Tg is a tumor marker for residual or recurrent disease, TgAbs can falsely lower Tg levels in immunometric assays, necessitating alternative monitoring methods. Current guidelines recommend concurrent TgAb testing during Tg evaluation to ensure accuracy. While their pathogenic role remains unclear, TgAbs may participate in immune-mediated thyroid damage through antibody-dependent cytotoxicity or immune complex deposition. Research continues to explore their prognostic value and interplay with other autoimmune markers.