The Regulation and Function of Calcium in the Human Body - Essay Example

A fascinating interplay of pathways and signals are involved in calcium regulation. As research and new technologies evolve, new aspects are elucidated in these complex mechanisms. Various animal models have been used to understand cellular responses and hormonal regulation (Eckermann 2008). Moe (2008) states "normal homeostatic regulation maintains serum levels, intracellular levels, and optimal mineral content in bone”, summarizing the intricacy of structures and organs that contribute to "normal" levels.

The major organs involved in the regulation of its metabolism are the parathyroid glands, the kidneys, the skeleton, and the gut (Wysolmerski & Insogna 2007). Our body obtains the necessary amount of calcium from two major sources: diet (through intestinal absorption) and bones (through calcium mobilization). Foods that include a high amount of calcium are dairy milk, cheese yoghurt, and green vegetables. The amount of calcium people need varies: young people need a high intake so that growth and development are assured.

Older women need calcium supplementation to prevent osteoporosis. Calcium is absorbed in the very beginning of the small bowel: the duodenum and the first portion of the jejunum. The intestinal absorption is regulated by Vitamin D, and its mobilization is tightly regulated by various hormones and signalling mechanisms, with a continuous remodelling of calcium storage. For example, if calcium is not adequately obtained from the diet, a series of hormonal mechanisms are set off to get the necessary amount from bones; if this process is sustained for a long period of time, bones weaken.

The kidneys are also important organs that regulate calcium metabolism and keep blood levels (Choudhury & Levy 2007). In the different portions of the kidney, calcium is reabsorbed, so that equilibrium is achieved in the blood. Additionally, in both the proximal and distal nephrons, filtrated calcium is passively or actively absorbed into the bloodstream obtaining adequate levels in the urine.