PTH-related peptide

Parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) is a protein similar to parathyroid hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the body. It plays a natural role in growth and development, especially during fetal life and in tissues like the skin and bones. However, when PTHrP is produced in excess, such as by certain cancers like lung or breast cancer, it can cause high calcium levels in the blood, a condition known as hypercalcemia. This can lead to symptoms like weakness, confusion, and nausea. PTHrP's activity is important for maintaining calcium balance, but abnormal levels can contribute to disease.