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Calcitonin: discovery, development, and clinical application
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver.
Summary
Researchers discovered calcitonin, a hormone that precisely regulates calcium levels in the body. This discovery led to new treatments for bone diseases like osteoporosis and hypercalcemia.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Calcium Homeostasis
- Neuropeptide Hormones
Background:
- Precise regulation of plasma calcium is vital for numerous physiological processes.
- Mechanisms controlling calcium homeostasis were poorly understood in the mid-20th century.
- Initial research focused on parathyroid hormone (PTH) and its role in hypocalcemia.
Observation:
- A novel calcium-regulating hormone, calcitonin, was discovered.
- Calcitonin is released in response to hypercalcemia and lowers plasma calcium.
- Calcitonin inhibits osteolysis, counteracting PTH's effect.
Findings:
- Calcitonin is a 32-amino acid peptide hormone produced by C cells.
- Salmon calcitonin, isolated by the researchers, is highly potent and clinically used.
- Calcitonin effectively treats Paget's disease, hypercalcemia, and osteoporosis.
Implications:
- Calcitonin's discovery expanded the understanding of calcium regulation.
- Salmon calcitonin provides potent therapeutic benefits for bone disorders and pain relief.
- The clinical use of calcitonin generated significant revenue, particularly for osteoporosis treatment.