A game-changing discovery in the medical world: A new cell type was identified in the thyroid gland

Turkish researchers made a historical discovery that resonated in the medical world and changed nearly 150 years of routine. Endocrine Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Erhan Ayşan and his research group broke new ground in the world medical literature by identifying a new cell type that secretes parathyroid hormone in the thyroid gland.

Until now, it was accepted in medical school textbooks and basic physiology and histology resources that there were only two cell types in the thyroid gland. These were follicle cells that secrete T3 and T4 and parafollicular cells, which were discovered approximately 150 years ago. With the new comprehensive research, a third cell type was identified within the thyroid tissue.

Commenting on the subject, Prof. Dr. Erhan Ayşan said, "Basic physiology and histology books contain the information 'Parathormone is secreted only from the parathyroid glands'. We identified a new cell group that secretes parathyroid hormone in the thyroid gland and managed to image these cells. This discovery changes one of the basic knowledge of medical education."

The discovery in question also clarified some clinical questions that have not been answered clearly in the medical world for many years. It was thus understood why parathyroid hormone levels decreased in some patients even though the parathyroid glands were left in place in successful thyroid surgeries, and why hormone levels did not reset in cases where all parathyroid glands were removed. Prof. Dr. Ayşan noted that the fact that these new cells in the thyroid gland, along with the thyroid tissue, are effective in the surgical process provides a clear explanation for this situation.

Stating that the findings obtained will open up a new approach algorithm in thyroid surgery for discussion in the coming years, Ayşan drew attention to the importance of organ-preserving surgery. It was stated that the "thyroid-sparing surgery" method, which leaves healthy parts in the patient's body instead of removing the entire thyroid gland, can significantly improve the quality of life of patients by preserving natural hormone secretions.

On the other hand, it was stated that the roles of these new cells in thyroid cancers, Hashimoto's disease, Graves' disease and thyroid inflammation will be investigated. It is anticipated that studies on this subject may open the door to early diagnosis methods and new treatment options in the future. The success in question is not individual; It was emphasized that it was obtained through the joint work of a large, multidisciplinary research team consisting of basic sciences, engineering and clinical sciences.