Parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP)

Parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) is a protein that plays a role similar to parathyroid hormone (PTH), regulating calcium levels in the body. It helps manage calcium in bones, kidneys, and other tissues. Although PTHrP is naturally produced in the body and important for development, it can also be produced by certain cancers. When tumors produce excessive PTHrP, it can cause a condition called humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy, leading to dangerously high calcium levels in the blood. This abnormal production often indicates advanced cancer and requires medical attention to manage calcium balance.