thyroglobulin
Thyroglobulin is a protein produced by the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck. It serves as a precursor to thyroid hormones, specifically thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development in the body.
In medical settings, measuring thyroglobulin levels can help monitor certain thyroid conditions, particularly after the treatment of thyroid cancer. Elevated levels may indicate the presence of cancerous cells, while low levels can suggest effective treatment. Thus, thyroglobulin serves as an important biomarker in thyroid health management.