Background:
Extrarenal 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-D) locally produced by immune
cells plays crucial roles in the regulation of the immune system. However, in vivo status of extrarenal
1,25-D and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-D) in acute inflammatory conditions are unknown.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to determine the extrarenal 1,25-D level in circulation in
bilaterally nephrectomized rats, induced by low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
Methods:
Renal 1,25-D synthesis was terminated through bilateral nephrectomy in rats. The rats received
intraperitoneal LPS (50 μg/kg BW) three times and the experiment was ended 24 hours after
nephrectomy. Serum 1,25-D, 25-D, calcium, phosphorus, intact parathyroid hormone, and calcitonin
levels were measured and immunohistochemistry was applied to detect the sources of extrarenal 1,25-
D synthesis.
Results:
Circulatory 1,25-D concentration remarkably increased in both LPS-treated and non-treated
bilaterally nephrectomized rats. Elevated circulatory 1,25-D did not have hypercalcemic endocrinal
effects. The increased 1,25-D level also resulted in a concurrent rapid and dramatic depletion of circulatory
25-D.
Conclusions:
Extrarenal 1,25-D could enter into the systemic circulation and, therefore, might have
systemic effects besides its autocrine and paracrine functions.