Definition

A hormone produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate calcium levels in the blood.

Example

Thyrocalcitonin plays a crucial role in lowering blood calcium levels.

Conversation

Have you heard about thyrocalcitonin?

No, what is it?

It's a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the body.

That sounds important for maintaining health!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thyrocalcitonin is formed from "thyro-" (from Greek "thyreos", meaning shield, referring to the thyroid gland's shape), "calc-" (from Latin "calx", meaning lime or calcium), and "-tonin" (from Greek "tonos", meaning tension or tone). The word refers to a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate calcium levels in the body.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'thyroid' gland, which has a 'shield' shape ('thyro-'), and how it relates to 'calcium' ('calc-') regulation in the body, with '-tonin' indicating its role in maintaining 'tone' or balance.

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