Selective thyroid hormone receptor modulators.

Thyroid hormone regulates many important processes in vertebrates. Analysis of the symptoms that accompany hypo- and hyperthyroidism, the most common disorders of the thyroid, suggests that there are certain desirable biological effects brought about by an excess or deficiency of thyroid hormone, and that selective thyroid hormone receptor modulators (STRMs) would be potentially useful therapeutic agents. This review will provide an introduction to thyroid hormone biology, and will discuss the chemistry and pharmacology of the first generation STRMs.