Skip to main content
Ch. 6 Bones and Bone Structure
Martini - Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology 11th Edition
Martini, Nath, Bartholomew11th EditionFundamentals of Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136874089Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 6, Problem 6

The hormones that coordinate the storage, absorption, and excretion of calcium ions are:
(a) Growth hormone and thyroxine
(b) Calcitonin and parathyroid hormone
(c) Calcitriol and cholecalciferol
(d) Estrogens and androgens

Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that calcium ion homeostasis in the body is primarily regulated by hormones that control calcium storage in bones, absorption from the digestive tract, and excretion by the kidneys.
Recall that parathyroid hormone (PTH) increases blood calcium levels by stimulating bone resorption, increasing calcium absorption in the intestines (indirectly via calcitriol), and reducing calcium excretion by the kidneys.
Recognize that calcitonin lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting bone resorption and promoting calcium deposition in bones.
Note that growth hormone and thyroxine mainly influence growth and metabolism, not directly calcium regulation; calcitriol and cholecalciferol are forms of vitamin D involved in calcium absorption but not the primary hormones coordinating all three processes; estrogens and androgens influence bone density but are not the main regulators of calcium ion balance.
Conclude that the hormones coordinating storage, absorption, and excretion of calcium ions are calcitonin and parathyroid hormone.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
2m
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Calcitonin and Parathyroid Hormone

Calcitonin and parathyroid hormone (PTH) are key regulators of calcium homeostasis. Calcitonin lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting bone resorption, while PTH increases calcium levels by stimulating bone breakdown, enhancing intestinal absorption, and reducing renal excretion.
Recommended video:
Guided course
4:31
Hormone Review Table Example 1

Calcium Ion Homeostasis

Calcium ion homeostasis involves maintaining stable calcium levels in the blood and tissues, essential for muscle contraction, nerve function, and bone health. Hormones regulate calcium absorption from the gut, storage in bones, and excretion via kidneys to keep this balance.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:59
Introduction to Homeostasis

Role of Vitamin D Metabolites (Calcitriol and Cholecalciferol)

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is converted into calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, which promotes calcium absorption in the intestines. While important for calcium metabolism, these metabolites primarily enhance absorption rather than directly coordinating storage and excretion.