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Osteocalcin

Meaning

Osteocalcin is a non-collagenous protein synthesized and secreted primarily by osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, making it a critical biochemical marker of bone turnover and health. This protein is incorporated into the bone matrix, where it is believed to regulate the mineralization process, and a portion is released into the circulation, providing a measurable index of bone building activity. Beyond its role in the skeletal system, osteocalcin, particularly its undercarboxylated form, acts as a hormone that influences energy metabolism, testicular function, and cognitive processes. Monitoring osteocalcin levels is valuable for assessing the efficacy of bone-targeting therapies and understanding the bone-metabolism axis.