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Multiple Choice
The parathyroid hormone is primarily responsible for which of the following functions?
A
Regulating blood calcium levels
B
Promoting water reabsorption in the kidneys
C
Controlling metabolic rate
D
Stimulating the production of insulin
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by identifying the primary function of the parathyroid hormone (PTH). Recall that PTH is secreted by the parathyroid glands and plays a critical role in calcium homeostasis.
Step 2: Understand the mechanism of PTH. It increases blood calcium levels by stimulating osteoclast activity in bones (breaking down bone tissue to release calcium), enhancing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, and promoting activation of vitamin D to increase calcium absorption in the intestines.
Step 3: Compare the listed options to the known functions of PTH. The correct function should align with its role in regulating blood calcium levels.
Step 4: Eliminate options that are unrelated to calcium regulation. For example, promoting water reabsorption in the kidneys is primarily associated with antidiuretic hormone (ADH), controlling metabolic rate is linked to thyroid hormones, and stimulating insulin production is related to pancreatic beta cells.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Regulating blood calcium levels,' as this directly corresponds to the primary function of parathyroid hormone.