Which hormone, produced in the thyroid gland, inhibits bone resorption?

• A. Parathyroid hormone
• B. Calcitonin
• C. Growth hormone
• D. Testosterone

Answer: (B)

The hormone that inhibits bone resorption and is produced by the thyroid gland is calcitonin. This hormone plays a critical role in the regulation of calcium levels in the body. By decreasing osteoclast activity, calcitonin effectively reduces the breakdown of bone tissue, which can lead to a decrease in the release of calcium into the bloodstream. This mechanism helps to lower blood calcium levels when they are elevated, providing a balance to calcium homeostasis in conjunction with parathyroid hormone, which increases bone resorption.

The understanding of calcitonin's role in bone metabolism is crucial, especially in the context of disorders such as osteoporosis, where the balance between bone formation and resorption is disrupted. By inhibiting bone resorption, calcitonin contributes to bone density maintenance, highlighting its therapeutic potential in certain bone-related conditions.