THE EFFECT OF IODIDE ON THE RELEASE OF THYROID HORMONE IN HYPERTHYROIDISM*

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Abstract
The mechanism whereby the iodide ion beneficially affects the syndrome of hyperthyroidism remains unclear. Wolff and Chaikoff have shown that in the rat, elevation of the serum inorganic iodide concentration to approximately 30 micrograms per 100 ml. inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormone (1). This effect, however, is transient. Stanley has presented evidence that in man, when the serum inorganic iodide concentration exceeds 6 micrograms per 100 ml. there is partial inhibition of organic binding of iodine in the thyroid gland (2). These experiments suggest that iodine exerts its effect by slowing the rate of synthesis of thyroid hormone. A different process by which iodide may affect hyperthyroidism is intimated by the in vitro studies of Albert and associates (3).