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triiodothyronine

hormone
Also known as: 3,5,3′-triiodothyronine, L-triiodothyronine, T3(Show More)

Quick Summary

Triiodothyronine, also known as T3, is an iodine-containing hormone derived from thyroxine. It is one of the two primary hormones secreted by the thyroid gland, with the other being thyroxine (T4). The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces these hormones which are vital for metabolism and growth.1234

Thyroxine contains four iodine atoms, while triiodothyronine contains three. Although the thyroid gland produces more thyroxine, it is converted into triiodothyronine in many tissues, and it is primarily triiodothyronine that exerts the action of thyroid hormone in the body's target tissues. This hormone plays a crucial role in stimulating oxygen consumption and regulating metabolism across all body cells and tissues.214

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