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Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

Meaning

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) is a vital polypeptide hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands, acting as the primary endocrine regulator of calcium and phosphate homeostasis in the extracellular fluid. Its physiological role is to elevate circulating calcium levels when they fall below the homeostatic set point, protecting against hypocalcemia. PTH achieves this by acting on the bone, kidney, and indirectly on the small intestine, making it an essential component of skeletal and mineral metabolism in the context of hormonal health.