Thyroxine

Definition

Thyroxine, also known as T4, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development. It influences almost every cell in the body by controlling the rate at which they use energy.

Related terms

Metabolism:

The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms that enables them to grow, reproduce, maintain their structures, and respond to their environments.

Thyroid Gland:

An endocrine gland located in the neck that produces thyroid hormones (including thyroxine) which regulate the body's metabolic rate.

Hypothyroidism:

A condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland which results in insufficient production of thyroid hormones like thyroxine, leading to a decrease in metabolic processes