SERPINA7

The SERPINA7 gene (also known as TBG) provides instructions for making a protein called thyroxine-binding globulin. In the bloodstream, this protein carries hormones made or used by the thyroid gland, which is a butterfly-shaped tissue in the lower neck. Thyroid hormones play an important role in regulating growth, brain development, and the rate of chemical reactions in the body (metabolism). Most of the time, thyroid hormones circulate in the bloodstream attached to thyroxine-binding globulin and similar proteins.

inherited thyroxine-binding globulin deficiency - caused by mutations in the SERPINA7 gene

More than 25 mutations in the SERPINA7 gene have been identified in people with inherited thyroxine-binding globulin deficiency. Some mutations lead to a shortened, nonfunctional version of thyroxine-binding globulin. These genetic changes result in a total loss of the protein, which causes the complete form of inherited thyroxine-binding globulin deficiency (TBG-CD). Other mutations change single protein building blocks (amino acids) in thyroxine-binding globulin. These mutations alter the structure or processing of the protein, leading to the partial form of the disorder (TBG-PD).

When there is a shortage of thyroxine-binding globulin, the amount of circulating thyroid hormones is reduced. These changes do not cause any problems with thyroid function. Although inherited thyroxine-binding globulin deficiency does not cause any health problems, it can be mistaken for more serious thyroid disorders (such as hypothyroidism). Therefore, it is important to diagnose inherited thyroxine-binding globulin deficiency to avoid unnecessary treatments.

other disorders - caused by mutations in the SERPINA7 gene

Other changes involving the SERPINA7 gene cause a condition called thyroxine-binding globulin excess (TBG-E). People with this condition have unusually high levels of thyroxine-binding globulin, often two to four times greater than normal. This excess is caused by the presence of one or more extra copies of the SERPINA7 gene in each cell. Like thyroxine-binding globulin deficiency, thyroxine-binding globulin excess does not cause any problems with thyroid function.