For more than two decades, the NICHD has taken the lead in seeking answers to the problem of hypoparathyroidism. The primary focus of the NICHD’s research is finding ways to fight the injury or loss of the parathyroid glands and the subsequent loss of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Researchers also are attempting to develop synthetic PTH, along with better methods for delivering the synthetic hormone, and are exploring the possibility of thymus transplants. The NICHD is working closely with other NIH branches, including the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases, to further advances in these areas.