The Claim

Reverse T3 is the preferred substrate for deiodinase activity in human liver microsomes, with outer ring deiodination occurring approximately 400 times more efficiently than inner or outer ring deiodination of T4 or T3.

Source: Deiodination of thyroid hormone by human liver.

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
20score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

How it works
1 study reviewed
In plain English

In human liver tissue, reverse T3 is processed by deiodinase enzymes about 400 times faster than T4 or T3 through outer ring deiodination.

See the scientific wording

Reverse T3 is the preferred substrate for deiodinase activity in human liver microsomes, with outer ring deiodination occurring approximately 400 times more efficiently than inner or outer ring deiodination of T4 or T3.

Why this might work

A single enzyme in liver cells removes iodine from reverse T3 much faster than from other thyroid hormones, turning it into an inactive form. This enzyme works by grabbing reverse T3 first, using a special molecule to pull off an iodine atom from the outer ring, and does this about 400 times faster than it acts on T4 or T3.

Verified mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Deiodination of thyroid hormone by human liver.

    In the liver, there's a special enzyme that breaks down thyroid hormones, and it works about 400 times faster on reverse T3 than on other forms like T4 or T3 — this study proved that exactly.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.