Anatomy and Physiology: Normocalcemia is directly maintained by:

Question

Normocalcemia is directly maintained by:

 

A. Osteoclasts

B. Osteoblasts

C. Osteocytes

D. Osteomalacia

 

I am thinking the answer is osteocytes since they monitor and maintain the bone matrix, and are able to communicate to the osteoblasts and osteoclasts so the bone matrix can be made or broken down as needed.

Answer 1

Hi Mackenzie, the answer to this question is:  A (osteoclasts).  Let me explain further.

 

The regulation of calcium and calcium levels in our bodies are under direct hormonal regulation.  The hormone PTH, which is secreted by the parathyroid glands, stimulates osteoclasts when the calcium levels in our bodies are low.  The osteoclasts then resorb and break down bone, which releases calcium into circulation and ultimately raising the calcium levels in our body.  When we have an increase in our blood calcium levels, known as hypercalcemia, our thyroid glands release a hormone known as Calcitonin.  This hormone also acts on the osteoclast by inhibiting its actions on the bone, helping to decrease blood calcium levels.  

 

Out of all of the answer choices, choice A is the best answer.

 

Hope that helps :)