scholarly journals Vitamin D and allergies

2013 ◽  
Vol 78 (3) ◽  
pp. 353-363
Author(s):  
Guro Gafvelin

An increasing amount of evidence has established that the biologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D3, possesses immunoregulatory properties. Vitamin D exerts its effects through binding to the nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR), which is expressed by cells of the immune system. Most of the immunological effects mediated by vitamin D-VDR are regulatory, inhibiting adaptive immune responses. It has become apparent that the incidence of vitamin D insufficiency is surprisingly high in the general population. A link between low vitamin D serum levels and the increased prevalence of allergic diseases has been proposed. This possible connection has been investigated in numerous studies on associations between vitamin D serum concentrations and different allergic conditions, as well as studies on the effect of vitamin D supplementation. Although there is some evidence for a protective role of vitamin D in asthma, no consensus on the role of vitamin D in allergic disease has yet been reached. Still, treatment strategies involving vitamin D supplementation to risk groups, combinatorial corticosteroid and vitamin D treatment in asthma and vitamin D as an immunomodulator in allergen specific immunotherapy show promise for the future.

2017 ◽  
Vol 95 (2) ◽  
pp. 151-156 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ola Ahmed El-Gohary ◽  
Mona Abdel-Azeem Said

There are considerable public concerns about the relationship between mobile phone radiation and human health. The present study assesses the effect of electromagnetic field (EMF) emitted from a mobile phone on the immune system in rats and the possible protective role of vitamin D. Rats were randomly divided into six groups: Group I: control group; Group II: received vitamin D (1000 IU/kg/day) orally; Group III: exposed to EMF 1 h/day; Group IV: exposed to EMF 2 h/day; Group V: exposed to EMF 1 h/day and received vitamin D (1000 IU/kg/day); Group VI: exposed to EMF 2 h/day and received vitamin D (1000 IU/kg/day). After 30 days of exposure time, 1 h/day EMF exposure resulted in significant decrease in immunoglobulin levels (IgA, IgE, IgM, and IgG); total leukocyte, lymphocyte, eosinophil and basophil counts; and a significant increase in neutrophil and monocyte counts. These changes were more increased in the group exposed to 2 h/day EMF. Vitamin D supplementation in EMF-exposed rats reversed these results when compared with EMF-exposed groups. In contrast, 7, 14, and 21 days of EMF exposure produced nonsignificant differences in these parameters among all experimental groups. We concluded that exposure to mobile phone radiation compromises the immune system of rats, and vitamin D appears to have a protective effect.


2008 ◽  
Vol 14 (9) ◽  
pp. 1220-1224 ◽  
Author(s):  
J Smolders ◽  
P Menheere ◽  
A Kessels ◽  
J Damoiseaux ◽  
R Hupperts

Background Multiple Sclerosis is associated with low serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). We investigated the association between serum levels of 25(OH)D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D), the biologically active metabolite, and clinical MS severity as expressed by EDSS-score and relapse rate. Study-design Cross-sectional study. Patients and Methods Serum samples from 267 MS patients were collected for 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D measurement. Clinical MS parameters at the date of serum sampling were determined. Results: Both metabolite levels were significantly lower in the progressive forms compared to the relapsing remitting (RR)MS phenotype. In RRMS patients (disease course ≤ 5 years), high 25(OH)D levels were associated with a high chance of remaining relapse-free. Low 25(OH)D levels were associated with high EDSS-scores. 1,25(OH)2D was not directly associated with relapse rate or EDSS-score, and was dependent of age and 25(OH)D level. Conclusion Serum levels of 25(OH)D were associated with both relapse rate and disability in MS patients. These results are suggestive for a disease modulating effect of the serum concentrations of 25(OH)D on MS. The low circulating 1,25(OH)2D levels in progressive MS are due to older age and lower 25(OH)D levels. The potential consequences for vitamin D supplementation in MS will be discussed.


2020 ◽  
pp. 1-8
Author(s):  
Tanya M. Galyuk ◽  
Anton J.M. Loonen

Abstract Objective: Vitamin D deficiency may be a clinical problem in patients with addictions. The authors systematically searched for studies addressing vitamin D and addiction and develop a hypothesis which can direct future research of the possible mechanistic role of vitamin D in the process of addiction. Methods: Systematic review of the literature found in PubMed and EMBASE followed by narrative review combined with clinical experiences leading to hypotheses for future research. Results: Only five articles were identified about a role of vitamin D in the pathophysiology of addiction. Their results are in line with a possible influence of vitamin D in dopaminergic transmission. The cerebral vitamin D status depends on the functionality of genetic variants of vitamin D receptor and other involved genes. Routine serum calcidiol levels may not adequately reflect cerebral vitamin D status. Uncertainty exists regarding appropriate calcidiol blood levels and proper dosages for affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Conclusions: The putative pathophysiological role of vitamin D in substance abuse has been insufficiently studied which calls to more studies how to measure cerebral vitamin D status in clinical practice. Research is indicated whether vitamin D supplementation should use higher dosages and aim to reach higher calcidiol serum levels. Measuring dopaminergic functioning within the prefrontal cortex as reflected by neuropsychological tests selected as suitable could be a appropriate proxy for the cerebral vitamin D status when studying the pharmacogenomics of this functionality in patients.


2018 ◽  
Vol 2018 ◽  
pp. 1-9 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. A. G. Khammissa ◽  
R. Ballyram ◽  
Y. Jadwat ◽  
J. Fourie ◽  
J. Lemmer ◽  
...  

The biologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) and its receptor, the vitamin D receptor (VDR), play roles in maintaining oral immunity and the integrity of the periodontium. Results of observational cross-sectional clinical studies investigating the association between vitamin D serum level and the incidence and severity of chronic periodontitis indicate that, perhaps owing to the immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties of 1,25(OH)2D/VDR signalling, a sufficient serum level of vitamin D is necessary for the maintenance of periodontal health. In cases of established chronic periodontitis, vitamin D supplementation is associated with reduction in the severity of periodontitis. As cross-sectional studies provide only weak evidence for any causal association and therefore are of questionable value, either longitudinal cohort studies, case controlled studies, or randomized control trials are needed to determine whether or not deficiency of vitamin D is a risk factor for chronic periodontitis, and whether or not vitamin D supplementation adjunctive to standard periodontal treatment is in any way beneficial. In this article, we discuss the relationship between vitamin D, oral immunity and periodontal disease and review the rationale for using vitamin D supplementation to help maintain periodontal health and as an adjunct to standard periodontal treatment.


Author(s):  
Behrang Motamed ◽  
Hossein Hemmati ◽  
Mehdi Pursafar ◽  
Mohaya Farzin ◽  
Zakiyeh Jafaryparvar ◽  
...  

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium metabolism through the parathormone-dependent process. The deficiency of this important nutrient may be associated with hypocalcemia after thyroidectomy. To evaluate the role of vitamin D in predicting hypocalcemia following total thyroidectomy. In this study, sixty-two patients who underwent total thyroidectomy for benign or malignant thyroid disease were included in this prospective study. Preoperative vitamin D serum levels and parathormone (PTH) levels were determined. The association between preoperative vitamin D status and the development of hypocalcemia was investigated. In this study, 62 patients were evaluated. The mean age of the subjects was 47 years. Of the 62 patients studied, of which 9 were male patients (14.5%), and 53 were female (85.5%), the results of our study showed. In both groups with and without vitamin D deficiency, calcium levels decreased significantly (P=0.01). In our study, it was found that there was no significant relationship between postoperative hypocalcemia and vitamin D deficiency. (P=0.441). After reviewing the data and according to Spearman correlation statistical test, no significant relationship was observed between serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium after thyroidectomy (P=0.340). Vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor of hypocalcemia after total thyroidectomy for benign goiter. Although post thyroidectomy hypocalcemia is multifactorial, vitamin D deficiency, particularly severe form, is significantly associated with the development of biochemical and clinical hypocalcemia. Vitamin D supplementation can prevent this unwanted complication in such patients.


2014 ◽  
Vol 155 (28) ◽  
pp. 1091-1096 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tamás Nagykálnai ◽  
László Landherr ◽  
András Csaba Nagy

The active form of vitamin D, in conjunction with his own receptor, affect a multitude of biological processes in the cell (inter alia it influences the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes). There is an increasing volume of scientific publications examining the relationships between serum vitamin D levels, vitamin D supplementation and malignant diseases. Some articles suggest inverse relationship between the low serum levels of vitamin D and the breast cancer risk and mortality, whilst other publications do not support this view. Thus the present opinion is conflicted. Vitamin D can exert a beneficial influence on the symptoms and outcomes of a large number of ailments, but its role in affecting cancer is still not completely clear. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(28), 1091–1096.


2018 ◽  
Vol 2018 ◽  
pp. 1-9 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. A. G. Khammissa ◽  
J. Fourie ◽  
M. H. Motswaledi ◽  
R. Ballyram ◽  
J. Lemmer ◽  
...  

Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism, with the capacity to modulate innate and adaptive immune function, cardiovascular function, and proliferation and differentiation of both normal and malignant keratinocytes. 1,25(OH)2D, the biologically active form of vitamin D, exerts most of its functions through the almost universally distributed nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR). Upon stimulation by 1,25(OH)2D, VDR forms a heterodimer with the retinoid X receptor (RXR). In turn, VDR/RXR binds to DNA sequences termed vitamin D response elements in target genes, regulating gene transcription. In order to exert its biological effects, VDR signalling interacts with other intracellular signalling pathways. In some cases 1,25(OH)2D exerts its biological effects without regulating either gene expression or protein synthesis. Although the regulatory role of vitamin D in many biological processes is well documented, there is not enough evidence to support the therapeutic use of vitamin D supplementation in the prevention or treatment of infectious, immunoinflammatory, or hyperproliferative disorders. In this review we highlight the effects of 1,25(OH)2D on bone and calcium homeostasis, on cancer, and refer to its effects on the cardiovascular and immune systems.


2021 ◽  
pp. 155982762110056
Author(s):  
Sneha Baxi Srivastava

There is an astounding amount of conversation and research about vitamin D. It carries many claims, and there is controversy as to what adequate levels should be, how to ensure reaching appropriate serum levels, and what the consequences are of vitamin D insufficiency. This article describes the role of vitamin D, reviews some of the evidence, and provides the current recommendations for vitamin D supplementation, including if a daily walk in the sun is the most appropriate prescription or do we need something more?


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lingqiong Meng ◽  
Sue A Shapses ◽  
Xiangbing Wang

Abstract Background: Vitamin D3 is metabolized to 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] in liver, and only after it goes to kidney is it converted to its biologically active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D]. Also, the majority of both total 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D are tightly bound to vitamin D bind protein (DBP) and only a small portion remains in free form. In certain patient populations, like primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), concentrations of free vitamin D metabolites may be affected by altered levels of binding protein. Objective: To evaluate total and free 1,25(OH)2D levels in PHPT patients and healthy controls. Methods: Thirty female patients with PHPT and 30 healthy age and body mass index (BMI) matched controls were enrolled (57.1 ± 9.8 years and BMI of 32.2 ± 7.2 kg/m2). Serum levels of calcium, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), DBP, total 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D levels were examined. Serum free 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D levels were calculated using equations adapted from Bikle et al. Results: There were no significant differences in age and BMI between groups. Compared to controls, patients with PHPT had lower total 25(OH)D (25.2 ± 7.5 vs. 19.3 ± 6.4 ng/mL; p <0.001) and DBP levels (40.7± 3.1 vs. 36.5 ± 5.7 mg/dL; p <0.001). There were no significant differences in total 1,25(OH)2D levels or calculated free 25(OH)D levels between PHPT patients and controls; but the calculated free 1,25(OH)2D levels were 27% higher in the PHPT patients compared to controls (p<0.001). The calculated free (but not total) 1,25(OH)2D level was inversely correlated with DBP (r=-0.35, p<0.01) and positively correlated with iPTH levels (r=0.33, p<0.01). Conclusion: Postmenopausal patients with PHPT had lower serum total 25(OH)D, but similar free 25(OH)D levels. In contrast, total 1,25(OH)2D levels did not differ between patients and controls; however, patients had higher free 1,25(OH)2D. Because total 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D levels do not reflect free levels, standard clinical measures of circulating vitamin D may not be an accurate estimate of true vitamin D status in patients with PHPT. References: Bikle et al. Serum Protein Binding of 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D: A Reevaluation by Direct Measurement of Free Metabolite Levels. JCEM 1985;61:969-75.


2021 ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Cen Su ◽  
Biao Jin ◽  
Haiping Xia ◽  
Kangren Zhao

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Previous studies have shown inconsistent results for associations between vitamin D and risk of stroke. We gathered the existing published articles and conducted this meta-analysis with the aim to explore the association between vitamin D and risk of stroke. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> We searched for articles exploring the association between vitamin D and risk of stroke and published before April 2021 in the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. All statistical analyses were made using STATA 12.0 software. Q test and <i>I</i><sup><i>2</i></sup> were applied to examine heterogeneities between studies. <b><i>Results:</i></b> For the association between serum levels of 25(OH) vitamin D and risks of stroke, the present analysis included 20 cohort studies (including 213,276 participants) and a case-control analysis (including 13,642 participants). Additionally, the analysis included 15 studies (including 41,146 participants given vitamin D supplementation and 41,163 participants given placebo) to evaluate the influence of vitamin D supplementation on risk of stroke. Higher circulating levels of 25(OH) vitamin D were associated with a reduced risk of stroke (odds ratio/relative risk = 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.70–0.86, <i>I</i><sup><i>2</i></sup> = 41.5%, <i>p</i> = 0.025). However, the present analysis showed that vitamin D supplementation did not influence the risk of stroke (hazard ratio = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.96–1.14, <i>I</i><sup>2</sup> = 2.3%, <i>p</i> = 0.425). <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> Our analysis indicated that lower circulating level of vitamin D was associated with an elevated risk of stroke, but extra supplement of vitamin D failed to show benefit in decreasing the risk of stroke. Further research and study are also needed to show the role of vitamin D in relation to stroke.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document