parathyroid gland

a small, paired endocrine gland found in the area of the thyroid gland. It secretes parathyroid hormone, which takes part in the control of calcium and phosphate metabolism.

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Psychology term of the day

November 18th 2024

tendon reflex

the automatic contraction of a muscle elicited by stretching a tendon. Such reflexes are mediated by tendon stretch detectors, called Golgi tendon organs. An example of a tendon reflex is the patellar reflex, elicited by tapping or stretching the patellar tendon just below the kneecap. Also called deep reflex.