In humans, the effect of the hormone calcitonin is to _________.
A) temporarily decrease blood calcium levels when administered in large doses
B) increase blood calcium levels by stimulating osteoclasts
C) increase blood calcium levels by inhibiting osteoblasts
D) decrease mitosis of chondrocytes at the epiphyseal plate

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hormone calcitonin is secreted by the thyroid gland and works to temporarily decrease blood calcium levels by inhibiting bone resorption (the breakdown of bone by osteoclasts). When administered in large doses (such as in the treatment of osteoporosis), calcitonin can further decrease blood calcium levels. It does not stimulate osteoclasts, inhibit osteoblasts, or affect mitosis of chondrocytes at the epiphyseal plate.

In Humans, the Effect of the Hormone Calcitonin Is to _________