Parathyroid hormone (PTH) has a molecular weight of approximately 9.5 kDa. This hormone is produced and secreted by the parathyroid glands, four small glands located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. The primary function of PTH is to regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. In this sense, it is essential for maintaining proper mineral balance in the body, which is critical for numerous physiological processes, including bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
The overproduction of parathyroid hormone (Hyperparathyroidism) leads to elevated calcium levels in the blood, which can result from a tumor in the parathyroid glands. On the other hand, Insufficient production of parathyroid hormone (Hypoparathyroidism) reduces calcium levels.
Antibodies against PTH can be used in research and clinical settings to detect and quantify levels in blood or tissues. In diagnostics, measurements are commonly used to assess parathyroid function and to diagnose and monitor conditions such as hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism. Clinical applications involve using PTH measurements to diagnose and monitor disorders related to calcium metabolism.
Synonyms
Parathyroid hormone, Parathormone, Parathyrin, hPTH; Parathormone; Parathyrin; Parathyroid hormone 1 (PTH1); Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
Research Areas
Cardiovascular, Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation, Signal Transduction