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Multiple Choice
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) functions in stimulating the activity of which of the following cells?
A
Osteoclasts
B
Chondrocytes
C
Erythrocytes
D
Osteoblasts
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of parathyroid hormone (PTH): PTH is a hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands that plays a critical role in regulating calcium levels in the blood. It does this by influencing bone remodeling, kidney function, and calcium absorption in the intestines.
Identify the types of cells involved in bone remodeling: Bone remodeling involves two main types of cells—osteoblasts, which build bone, and osteoclasts, which break down bone to release calcium into the bloodstream.
Determine the specific action of PTH on bone cells: PTH stimulates osteoclast activity indirectly by signaling osteoblasts to produce signaling molecules (such as RANKL) that activate osteoclasts. This leads to increased bone resorption and the release of calcium into the blood.
Eliminate unrelated cell types: Chondrocytes are involved in cartilage formation, not bone remodeling. Erythrocytes are red blood cells and are unrelated to PTH's function. Osteoblasts are involved in bone formation, but PTH primarily stimulates osteoclast activity for calcium regulation.
Conclude that the correct answer is osteoclasts, as these are the cells directly responsible for breaking down bone tissue in response to PTH stimulation.