Classic calcium-regulating hormone; salmon calcitonin is a therapeutic form.
Part of the Foundational & therapeutic peptides cluster
Overview
Calcitonin is a 32-amino-acid peptide hormone secreted by thyroid C-cells that helps regulate blood calcium. Salmon calcitonin has been used as an approved medicine in several jurisdictions.
Source & context
Biological / chemical source: Thyroid parafollicular (C) cells
Primary research or clinical context: Approved therapeutic (osteoporosis, hypercalcemia in some markets)
Physiology
Calcitonin lowers blood calcium in part by acting on osteoclasts and the kidney, opposing parathyroid hormone. Its disulfide-bridged ring and amidated C-terminus are structural features often highlighted in peptide-hormone education.
Human vs. salmon forms
Salmon calcitonin is more potent and longer-acting than the human sequence and has been formulated as an approved medicine. Any clinical use of calcitonin should follow licensed medical guidance.
FAQ about Calcitonin
What is Calcitonin?+
Calcitonin is a 32-amino-acid peptide hormone secreted by thyroid C-cells that helps regulate blood calcium. Salmon calcitonin has been used as an approved medicine in several jurisdictions.
Is Calcitonin an approved medicine?+
Calcitonin: Approved therapeutic (osteoporosis, hypercalcemia in some markets). Always follow licensed medical guidance for approved products.
What is the typical length of Calcitonin?+
Calcitonin is commonly described as approximately 32 amino acids (Hormone).