Human calcitonin

Human calcitonin is a 32-amino acid polypeptide hormone produced by the parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland. It acts as a regulatory agent in calcium and phosphorus metabolism by inhibiting osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, thereby lowering serum calcium and phosphate levels. Human calcitonin increases bone calcium content and reduces serum calcium and phosphorus concentrations primarily through direct action on osteoclasts via the calcitonin receptor, leading to decreased bone breakdown. It also increases renal excretion of calcium, phosphate, sodium, and chloride[4][6]. Clinically, it is used as an alternative for patients who develop antibodies against salmon-derived formulations. Its main indications include treatment of hypercalcemia (especially in emergencies), Paget's disease of bone, and postmenopausal osteoporosis[1][2][4][5]. Human calcitonin is less potent than salmon-derived forms due to its higher tendency to aggregate[4].

Other names

CGNLSTCMLGTYTQDFNKFHTFPQTAIGVGAP (amino acid sequence)