PTHrP (Parathyroid Hormone-related Peptide)

PTHrP (Parathyroid Hormone-related Peptide) is a protein similar to parathyroid hormone. It helps regulate calcium levels in the body by telling bones to release calcium and kidneys to retain it. While it is naturally involved in fetal development and maintaining healthy tissues, PTHrP can also be produced by some cancers, leading to too much calcium in the blood, a condition called hypercalcemia. This dysregulation can cause symptoms like weakness, nausea, or confusion, and may require medical treatment to manage calcium levels effectively.