Final answer:
Iodine accumulation in thyroid cells involves symport with sodium, which is essential for producing Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), and deficiencies in iodine can result in goiter.
Step-by-step explanation:
Iodine accumulation in thyroid cells involves symport with sodium. This process is crucial for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which include Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3). Iodide ions are actively transported into thyroid follicle cells through the action of a Na+/I- symporter, an integral membrane protein that moves iodide into the cells against the concentration gradient in cotransport with sodium. These iodide ions are then oxidized, bound to tyrosine amino acids, and arranged into the thyroid hormones. A deficiency in iodine uptake can result in goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland due to excessive stimulation by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) without sufficient production of thyroid hormones.