Synonym(s)
- calcitrin
- thyrocalcitonin
Definition(s)
- A peptide hormone that lowers calcium concentration in the blood. In humans, it is released by thyroid cells and acts to decrease the formation and absorptive activity of osteoclasts. Its role in regulating plasma calcium is much greater in children and in certain diseases than in normal adults.
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Definition from: MeSH via Unified Medical Language System
at the National Library of Medicine
See also Understanding Medical Terminology.