Calcium balance Flashcards
Rachitis (rickets)
Malformation (weakness) of bones caused by the lack of vitamin-D that leads to a decreased absorption of calcium from the gut during development.
Osteoporosis
Weakening of the bones due to a loss of minerals (Calcium) and organic components.
Osteoblast
Bone forming progenitor cell.
Osteoclast
Phagocyte digesting bone tissue allowing remodelling of bone.
Osteoid tissue
Organic part of the bone matrix made up by fibers and other components, its mineralization finishes bone formation.
Remodelling
The continuous degradation and rebuilding of the bone tissue.
Calcification
(Mineralization) osteoid tissue becomes bone tissue by the “drizzle” of calcium salts.
Mineralization
(calcification) Osteoid tissue becomes bone tissue by the precipitation of calcium salts.
Ergocalciferol
Vitamin D2, precursor of calcitriol, a dietary supplement found in certain fish oils and fungi.
Cholecalciferol
Vitamin D3 (hormone), precursor of calcitriol, synthesised in the skin upon UV radiation.
Calcitriol
Hormone prepared from D2 and D3; increases calcium absorption in the gut and calcium mobilization in the bone, thus increases calcium level in the blood.
Pararthormon
Hormone of the pararhyroid glands; increases calcium reabsorption in the kidneys and calcium mobilization in the bone, thus increases calcium level in the blood.
Calcitonin
Hormone produced by C cells in the thyroid gland: Inhibits osteoclast activity, thus decreases calcium level in the blood.