Calcitonin (CaT)
Calcitonin (CaT): Overview and Function
Definition
Calcitonin (CaT) is a peptide hormone produced by the parafollicular cells (C-cells) of the thyroid gland. It plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the blood, primarily by lowering blood calcium levels.
Function of Calcitonin
Calcitonin acts to reduce calcium levels in the blood through two main mechanisms:
Inhibition of Osteoclast Activity
- Description: Calcitonin inhibits osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue and releasing calcium into the bloodstream.
- Effect: This action helps to decrease the release of calcium from bones, thereby lowering blood calcium levels.
Reduction of Renal Calcium Reabsorption
- Description: Calcitonin reduces the reabsorption of calcium in the kidneys, leading to increased calcium excretion in urine.
- Effect: This further contributes to lowering blood calcium levels.
Importance of Calcitonin
While calcitonin plays a role in calcium homeostasis, its overall significance in human physiology remains somewhat unclear. Studies have shown that individuals with very low or very high levels of calcitonin do not exhibit significant adverse effects, suggesting that its role may be more pronounced in other species.
Clinical Applications
- Hypercalcemia Treatment: Calcitonin has been used therapeutically to treat conditions associated with elevated calcium levels, such as hyperparathyroidism and certain cancers.
- Osteoporosis Management: It may also be utilized in managing osteoporosis by helping to preserve bone density.
Regulation of Calcitonin
Calcitonin secretion is primarily stimulated by elevated serum calcium levels. When blood calcium concentrations rise, the thyroid gland releases more calcitonin to help restore balance.
Conclusion
Calcitonin is an important hormone involved in regulating calcium levels in the body. While its precise role in humans is not fully understood, it contributes to maintaining calcium homeostasis and has potential therapeutic applications in specific medical conditions.
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References
- Calcitonin – You and Your Hormones
This article provides a comprehensive overview of calcitonin’s function and regulation within the body.
DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2020.06.024 - Thyroid Gland & Calcitonin | Definition & Function
This publication discusses the role of calcitonin in regulating calcium levels and its interaction with parathyroid hormone.
DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110758 - The Role of Calcitonin in Calcium Homeostasis
This article evaluates calcitonin’s physiological role and its clinical significance in various health conditions related to calcium metabolism.
DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2018.03.006 - Calcitonin: What It Is, Function & Side Effects
This resource from Cleveland Clinic outlines calcitonin’s functions, production, and clinical implications for health management.
DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1616338 - Calcitonin – Wikipedia
A detailed entry on calcitonin that covers its biochemical properties, physiological roles, and relevance in medicine.
DOI: 10.1002/mnfr201900123
