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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about calcitonin is true?
A
Calcitonin lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting osteoclast activity in bones.
B
Calcitonin increases calcium absorption in the intestines.
C
Calcitonin stimulates the release of calcium from bones into the bloodstream.
D
Calcitonin is produced by the parathyroid glands.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of calcitonin: Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland, specifically by the parafollicular cells (also known as C cells). Its primary function is to regulate calcium levels in the blood.
Review the mechanism of calcitonin: Calcitonin lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue and releasing calcium into the bloodstream.
Eliminate incorrect options: Calcitonin does not increase calcium absorption in the intestines; this function is associated with vitamin D. Calcitonin also does not stimulate the release of calcium from bones into the bloodstream; this is the opposite of its function.
Clarify the source of calcitonin: Calcitonin is produced by the thyroid gland, not the parathyroid glands. The parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which increases blood calcium levels.
Conclude the correct statement: Based on the above clarifications, the correct statement is that calcitonin lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting osteoclast activity in bones.