This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing theresources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject andinvestigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source,and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed isfor the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator.We are interested in determining whether people with sub clinical hypothyroidism (borderline abnormal thyroid gland function) have other health problems that increase their risk for heart disease, and whether these health issues are improved by treating the thyroid problem. The disease process that we are most interested in investigating is called endothelial dysfunction, which means that blood vessels do not function as well as they should. Endothelial dysfunction is seen early in the development of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), a known risk factor for heart disease. This study will compare the functioning of blood vessels in both normal subjects and subjects with borderline abnormal thyroid function. The study will also evaluate the thickness of the blood vessel walls, which is also associated with hardening of the arteries. Additionally, blood tests will be drawn to compare other risk factors that are associated with heart disease (e.g. cholesterol). The results of the study will help to determine whether patients with borderline abnormal thyroid function should be treated to decrease their risk for heart disease.
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