Abstract
Calcitonin is 32-aminoacids polypeptide whose primary function is to inhibit osteoclasts activated bone resorption. In mammals is secreted in the thyroid gland specialized cells called C cells which have embrygenic origin in ultimobranchial bodies.
C cells are about 0.1 % of the mass of thyroid gland. To achieve hypocalcemic effect is necessary all 32 aminoacids.
Calcitonin is released from thyroid gland first of all by calcium and magnesium. Calcitonin is decreasing bone resorption which can demonstrated in vivo and in vitro.
Calcitonin has been used to treat osteoporosis and algodystrophic syndrome. It had a lot of studies with good results on bone mineral density and fracture rate.
The benefit-risk balance in the post-menopausal osteoporosis indication that the CHMP considered negative and recommended the withdrawal from the market of all products authorized only in this single indication across the European Union. Intracranialy calcitonin act as a neurotransmiter.
Prevailing opinion is view that calcitonin protects the skeleton under conditions of increased calcium demand as happens in times of growth, pregnancy and lactation. Calcitonin is also important tumor marker of thyroid carcinoma.