Mechanisms in the kidney that control magnesium and calcium levels discovered

(Massachusetts General Hospital) The gene KCTD1 directs production of a protein that functions in the kidney to maintain a normal balance of magnesium and calcium in blood. Loss of KCTD1 impairs the ability of the kidney to properly absorb magnesium and calcium from urine in the kidney, leading to abnormally low magnesium and calcium blood levels, thereby triggering the parathyroid glands to secrete excess parathyroid hormone that in turn leads to metabolic bone disease.
Source: EurekAlert! - Biology - Category: Biology Source Type: news