Parathyroid hormone

High school (ages 12+)
Human Body

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/parathyroid-hormone

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific name?Parathyroid hormone (PTH), Parathormone, Parathyrin
2. What is the molecular composition?A polypeptide hormone consisting of 84 amino acids
3. What is parathyroid hormone and where does it come from?Parathyroid hormone is a tiny hormone made by the small glands behind the thyroid. It helps keep bones strong by balancing the minerals calcium and phosphate.
4. Why does the body release more parathyroid hormone when calcium is low?When blood calcium drops, the glands sense it and secrete more PTH to raise calcium levels by acting on bones, kidneys, and vitamin D.

Homeostasis: The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.
Osteoclast: A large cell that breaks down bone tissue, releasing minerals.
Calcitriol: The biologically active form of Vitamin D, crucial for calcium and phosphate absorption.