IDDF2024-ABS-0441 Exploring the gut-thyroid axis: dietary deficiencies and gene expression patterns in pediatric patients with thyroid disorders

<h3>Background</h3> This study aims to investigate the interplay between gut health, thyroid disease, and dietary intake of key nutrients (kcals, zinc, and iron) in pediatric patients. Specifically, we aimed to analyze the expression of genes related to iodine metabolism, thyroid hormone synthesis, gut barrier function, and host-microbiome interactions in relation to dietary deficiencies. <h3>Methods</h3> Stool samples were collected from 20 pediatric patients diagnosed with thyroid disease, and nucleic acids were extracted for genetic analysis. Additionally, dietary intake of kcals, zinc, and iron was assessed through dietary records. qPCR and PCR techniques were employed to target specific genes involved in iodine metabolism (NIS, TPO), thyroid hormone synthesis (TG, TR), gut barrier function (ZO-1, Occludin), inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6), host-microbiome interaction (TLRs, AMPs), and hormone signaling (GLP-1R, GIPR). Statistical analyses were conducted to correlate gene expression levels with dietary deficiencies and thyroid disease severity. <h3>Results</h3> Our initial examination uncovered notable dietary deficiencies in caloric intake, zinc, and iron among the pediatric subjects. Analysis of gene expression patterns revealed disturbances in genes associated with iodine metabolism, thyroid hormone synthesis, and gut barrier function. Specifically, changes in expression levels of NIS and TPO genes were observed, which correlated with inadequate intake of iodine, zinc, and iron. Additionally, variations were detected in gut barrier genes ZO-1 and Occludin, suggesting possible compromises in intestinal integrity among pediatric patients with thyroid disorders and dietary insufficiencies. <h3>Conclusions</h3> The findings suggest a complex interplay between gut health, dietary intake, and thyroid disease in pediatric patients. Dietary deficiencies in kcals, zinc, and iron may exacerbate dysregulation in genes related to iodine metabolism and thyroid hormone synthesis, potentially impacting thyroid function. Moreover, alterations in gut barrier function genes highlight the role of intestinal integrity in thyroid health. Future studies should explore interventions targeting dietary optimization and gut health maintenance to improve thyroid outcomes in pediatric populations.