Thyrocalcitonin: Effects on Calcium Kinetics in the Rat.

Abstract

Conclusion Thyrocalcitonin is able to produce and maintain a low plasma calcium level in an intact animal fed a normal diet. The marked inhibition of bone catabolism by thyrocalcitonin would suggest that this is the main mechanism involved in the lowering of the plasma calcium. Since bone anabolism is also decreased (a factor which would tend to raise plasma calcium) any contribution to the lowering of plasma calcium from this process would appear unlikely. Thyrocalcitonin administration results in an increased calcium balance. The utilization of dietary calcium by the gut is enhanced by TCT. In summary, thyrocalcitonin is a calcium-sparing hormone.