Data-Based Model Identification of the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Thyroid Complex

Abstract

The thyroid gland, in conjunction with the pituitary and the hypothalamus, forms a regulated system due to their mutual influence through released hormones. The equilibrium point of this system, commonly referred to as the “set point” ’, is individually determined. This means that determining the correct amount of medication to be administered to patients with hypothyroidism requires several treatment appointments creating an extended treatment process. Because the dynamics of the system have not yet been fully explored, mathematical models are needed to simulate the mutual influence of the respective hormones as well as their course over time. These models enable a deeper understanding of the functionality in the context of data measurements. Therefore, two time-dependent mathematical models are presented to replicate this overall influence of disparate systems. Both are based on a system of two differential equations modelling the interacting hormones. The parameters of the two models are identified according to different calibration approaches by means of patient data collected in a retrospective study in collaboration with the Medical University of Vienna. The hormonal course in the time domain as well as equilibrium curves including the set-point are then simulated and analyzed with respect to the normalized mean squared error. These calibrated systems allow a more profound insight into the functionality of the HPT complex.