Arg25Pro (c.915G > C) polymorphism of transforming growth factor beta 1 gene suggests an association with increased risk for Hashimoto's thyroiditis

Abstract

Background: The etiopathogenesis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) - has not been clearly elucidated although the role of chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines has been established. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1) is required to maintain immune homeostasis, and is implicated in lymphocyte infiltration, production of autoantibodies and thyrocyte destruction seen in patients with HT.