Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a polypeptide hormone composed of 84 amino acids that is secreted by the parathyroid glands in response to low blood calcium levels. PTH acts to increase blood calcium levels by releasing calcium from bone, reducing calcium excretion by the kidneys, and enhancing intestinal calcium absorption. The secretion of PTH is regulated through negative feedback by calcium levels in the blood, maintaining calcium homeostasis. Disorders involving abnormal PTH levels, such as hyperparathyroidism and hypoparathyroidism, can develop and result in conditions like osteoporosis.