calcitonin

American  

[kal-si-toh-nin] / ˌkæl sɪˈtoʊ nɪn /

noun

Biochemistry.

1. a polypeptide hormone that participates in the regulation of calcium levels in vertebrates by inhibiting loss of calcium from bone to the blood.

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calcitonin British  

/ ˌkælsɪˈtəʊnɪn /

noun

1. Also called: thyrocalcitonin.  a hormone secreted by the thyroid that inhibits the release of calcium from the skeleton and prevents a build-up of calcium in the blood Compare parathyroid hormone

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calcitonin Scientific  

/ kăl′sĭ-tō′nĭn /

1. A peptide hormone secreted by the thyroid gland that stimulates bone formation and lowers blood calcium and phosphate levels.

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Etymology

Origin of calcitonin

First recorded in 1960–65; calci- + tone + -in ²

Compare meaning

How does calcitonin compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• calcitriol vs. calcitonin
• parathyroid hormone vs. calcitonin

Example Sentences

Oral medications that affect the same calcitonin gene-related peptide pathway have now become available.

From Seattle Times

These cells release calcitonin, a hormone that regulates the levels of calcium and bone-building phosphorus in the blood.

From Washington Post

The arrival of therapies targeting calcitonin gene-related peptide and its receptor is rightly seen as a highlight of recent years, and many hope that the approach will yet yield greater benefits.

From Nature

I lost my sense of smell 15 years ago after my doctor prescribed calcitonin nasal spray for low bone density.

From Seattle Times

They said he provided or helped gain access to prescription-dose vitamin D; calcitonin; ferrous sulfate; Advair; testosterone; and various thyroid medications.

From New York Times