calcitonin eel

Calcitonin eel is a peptide hormone derived from the thyroid gland of the eel and is used primarily in research and investigational settings. It acts as a hypocalcemic hormone, contributing to the regulation of calcium homeostasis by reducing blood calcium levels. The mechanism of action involves acting as an agonist at the calcitonin receptor, leading to inhibition of bone resorption by osteoclasts and increased renal excretion of calcium, phosphate, and sodium. Calcitonin from non-mammalian sources such as eel has greater potency per milligram and a longer duration of action compared to mammalian forms. It has been studied for use in conditions like postmenopausal osteoporosis, Paget’s disease of bone, hypercalcemia associated with malignancy, and prevention of severe upper limb hemiplegia[1][3][5]. Its analgesic effects may be mediated through central modulation involving β-endorphins[5].

Other names

calcitonin, eel