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JOHN EAGER HOWARD, CALCIUM METABOLISM, BONES AND CALCIUM HOMEOSTASIS. A REVIEW OF CERTAIN CURRENT CONCEPTS, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 17, Issue 9, 1 September 1957, Pages 1105–1123, https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem-17-9-1105
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Abstract
THE purpose of this paper is to discuss some current views on the physiology of bone and the factors which control the metabolism and economy of calcium in the body as a whole. There are tremendous gaps in our knowledge. Nevertheless, this is an opportunity to review our thoughts and attitudes on these matters as they have developed over the years.
In the field of modern medical investigation the clinician is usually placed at the bottom of the totem pole, beneath his colleagues versed in the more basic sciences. Yet for a chemical or physical thesis to be accepted as physiologically sound for the human being, it must be shown to operate in him, sick or well. In this respect the clinician runs the final laboratory experiment for his colleagues; and, in addition, from his observation seat, often can provide clues of import to medical advancement. Furthermore, his opportunities for viewing the subject in its broadest aspects are apt to be greater than those of the biochemist or physicist. In the discussion to follow, I shall try to portray the bones as living cellular units, holding within their confines vast stores of mineral, especially calcium. As the result of forces operating upon the skeletal units, bones have the capacity to grow, repair themselves and break down; but in addition it is through the mediation of their powers to alter the flow of calcium into or out of their confines that the calcium concentration of our internal milieu is so closely guarded.
