What is the Origin of Calcitonin?

The term is a direct combination of "calci-", referring to calcium, and "-tonin," suggesting a tone or action upon it, reflecting its function to "tone down" or reduce blood calcium levels. This hormone was first discovered and isolated in the early 1960s, expanding the understanding of the endocrine control over skeletal metabolism. Its identification revealed a dual hormonal regulatory system for calcium, involving both the thyroid and parathyroid glands.

What is the Mechanism of Calcitonin?

Calcitonin exerts its hypocalcemic effect primarily by acting directly on osteoclasts, the bone-resorbing cells. The hormone binds to specific calcitonin receptors on these cells, inhibiting their activity and thus decreasing the rate at which calcium is released from the bone matrix into the circulation. Simultaneously, it promotes the renal excretion of calcium and phosphate, further contributing to the reduction of serum calcium concentrations. This mechanism is crucial for protecting the skeletal structure and preventing excessive mineral loss.

Calcitonin ∞ Area

Calcitonin

Meaning

Calcitonin is a peptide hormone synthesized and secreted by the parafollicular C-cells of the thyroid gland, playing a pivotal role in calcium homeostasis. Its primary physiological function is to counteract the effects of parathyroid hormone by lowering serum calcium levels. Clinically, this hormone is of interest in the diagnosis and monitoring of medullary thyroid carcinoma and occasionally in the therapeutic management of hypercalcemia or bone pain. It is an essential component of the body’s intricate system for maintaining mineral balance.

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How Do Peptide Therapies Influence Bone Density over Time?

Peptide therapies influence bone density by signaling the body's own cells to build new, stronger bone tissue over time.

∞ Bone Loss
∞ BPC-157
∞ Peptide Therapy

HRTioAugust 3, 2025

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How Do GLP-1 Agonists Affect Thyroid Cancer Risk?

GLP-1 agonists carry a theoretical risk for a rare thyroid cancer based on animal data, but large human trials have not confirmed this risk.

∞ LEADER Trial
∞ Absolute Risk
∞ Thyroid Cancer Risk

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How Do Semaglutide Protocols Influence Thyroid Health Long Term?

Semaglutide primarily influences thyroid health indirectly by improving metabolic markers through weight loss, with direct C-cell effects being a species-specific concern not established in humans.

∞ Food and Drug Administration
∞ TSH Levels
∞ Hypothyroidism

HRTioAugust 1, 2025