Thyroid gland functions are regulated by a hormone known as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Increased levels of TSH, as well as increased signaling through the receptor for TSH, result in hyperthyroidism (characterized by weight loss because the body increases the amount of energy it burns) and goiter.

Signals downstream of the receptor for TSH had been thought to be mediated mainly by a protein complex known as Gs. But now, a study that appears online on August 9, in advance of publication in the September print issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation, indicates that in mice Gq/G11-mediated signaling has an essential role in transmitting TSH-induced signals and therefore in regulating thyroid gland function. This makes Gq and G11 potential new targets for the treatment of hyperthyroidism and goiter.

In the study, Stefan Offermanns and colleagues from the University of Heidelberg, Germany, generated mice lacking the alpha-subunits of both Gq and G11 only in cells of the thyroid gland. These mice had reduced thyroid gland function and many had symptoms similar to individuals with hypothyroidism. In addition, the thyroid gland in these mice was unresponsive to the proliferative effects of TSH and a goitrogenic diet. The authors therefore suggest that inhibiting Gq and G11, or the molecules activated downstream of these G proteins, might be of therapeutic benefit for individuals with diseases characterized by increased thyroid gland function and/or growth.

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Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK after breast and lung cancer. More than 80 per cent of bowel cancers occur in people over 60. Around two-thirds of cases of bowel cancer may be preventable by changes in diet and lifestyle.

Half of all cancers could be prevented by changes to lifestyle. Cancer Research UK's Reduce the Risk campaign has five simple messages to help people reduce their risk of cancer. These are:

Stop smoking: this is the best present you will ever give yourself Stay in shape: cut your cancer risk by keeping a healthy weight Eat and drink healthily: limit alcohol and maintain a healthy diet Be SunSmart: protect yourself from the sun and harmful UV Look after number one; be aware of any body changes and go for screening

For further information on Cancer Research UK‚¬?„?s Reduce the Risk campaign visit www.reducetherisk.

For further information on bowel cancer visit wwwncerhelp.

About Cancer Research UK

Together with its partners and supporters, Cancer Research UK's vision is to beat cancer.

Cancer Research UK carries out world-class research to improve understanding of the disease and find out how to prevent, diagnose and treat different kinds of cancer. Cancer Research UK ensures that its findings are used to improve the lives of all cancer patients. Cancer Research UK helps people to understand cancer, the progress that is being made and the choices each person can make. Cancer Research UK works in partnership with others to achieve the greatest impact in the global fight against cancer.

For further information about Cancer Research UK's work or to find out how to support the charity, please call 08701 602040 or visit

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