Abstract:
Thyroid dysfunction is a significant global health issue, with maternal hypothyroidism affecting 2–2.5% of pregnancies in subclinical or overt forms. It disrupts offspring development, causing thyroid dysfunction, immune dysregulation, and impaired organ formation due to thyroid hormone deficiency. Objective: To assess the impact of maternal hypothyroidism on the offspring's immune system in early postnatal ontogenesis. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on laboratory rats (n = 10 per group). Hypothyroidism was induced by administering Mercazolil at a dose of 0.5 mg per 100 g in drinking water 4 weeks before pregnancy and during pregnancy. Offspring immune parameters, including thymus and spleen masses, leukocyte composition, and cytokine level, were measured. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Offspring from hypothyroid mothers showed reduced thymus and spleen mass, altered white blood cell profile, and impaired immune function. Conclusion. Maternal hypothyroidism negatively affects immune organ development in offspring, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and management during pregnancy.
