Search

Abstract Vitamin D has shown antimicrobial effects. This study aimed to explore the antiviral effects of vitamin D3 on saliva samples collected from patients with coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) and compare saliva and swab results to aid in policy development. Saliva and swab samples were collected from adult patients with a positive test for COVID-19 at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Jeddah. Patients who were immunocompromised and pregnant and aged

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that has various beneficial effects on the human body. The results of cholecalciferol supplementation are varied, and there has yet to be a comprehensive review regarding its effect on animal models. Therefore, this scoping review aims to summarize the evidence regarding the effect of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) supplementation on the lipid profiles of animal subjects. PubMed, Scopus, and DOAJ were searched for original research articles published until 2022. Studies were included if they were experimental studies, cholecalciferol was used as a supplement, and the changes in the lipid profile were analyzed. A total of 260 articles were collected, of which 250 articles were excluded, and 10 articles were included for qualitative synthesis. All studies used oral routes to supplement cholecalciferol with various doses and duration ranging from several weeks to several months. Most studies reported reduced lipid parameters in serum or organ-specific animals supplemented with cholecalciferol. As conclusion, cholecalciferol reduces lipid content in animal subjects and may have a beneficial effect on populations with metabolic diseases such as diabetes and dyslipidemia. Further research is required to explore the mechanism of how cholecalciferol affects the lipid profiles of experimental animals.

Abstract Background and Aims Vitamin D deficiency impacts a significant proportion of the world's population, and this deficiency has been linked to various conditions characterized by imbalanced serotonin regulation. The objective of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on serum serotonin levels. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central for Randomized Clinical Trials, and Web of Science up to September 2022, without any language restrictions. The effect sizes were calculated using the standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Six randomized clinical trials involving 356 participants were included in the analysis. Our findings indicated no significant changes in serotonin levels between the intervention and control groups (SMD: 0.24 ng/mL, 95% CI: −0.28, 0.75, p > 0.10). Subgroup analysis also did not reveal any significant changes in serotonin levels among children, participants with autism spectrum disorders, interventions lasting 10 weeks or longer, or those receiving vitamin D doses below 4000 IU/day. Conclusion Although the results obtained in this systematic review are inconclusive, they support the need for further well‐designed randomized trials to assess the potential role of vitamin D supplementation in regulating serotonin levels and potentially ameliorating depression and related disorders.

Introduction: There is rising concern about vitamin D deficiency around the globe due to its increasing association with multiple medical disorders. Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is an established risk factor for atherosclerotic disorders, and Carotid Artery IntimaMedia Thickness (CIMT) is considered a radiological marker of subclinical atherosclerosis. Aim: To find a correlation between serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-(OH)-D) levels and CIMT among patients with DM. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted, including 100 adult patients with Type 2 DM who were admitted to the Department of Medicine at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, India from October 2020 to September 2021. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25-(OH)-D levels

Objective. To report cross-sectionally serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] in women living in Italy within 12 months from breast cancer (BC) diagnosis. Methods. Baseline data were obtained from 394 women diagnosed with primary BC, enrolled from 2016 to 2019 in a lifestyle trial conducted in Italy. Subjects’ characteristics were compared between two 25(OH)D concentrations (hypovitaminosis D30, and ≥35 versus

Introduction: Peripheral sensorimotor polyneuropathy is present in nearly half of the patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Over the past 10 years, animal and human studies have suggested that vitamin D3 treatment may have a role in preventing or reducing neuropathic complaints and symptoms.

Mucopolysaccharidosis type IVA (MPS-IVA) is a rare lysosomal storage disease caused by N-acetylglucosamine-6-sulfate-sulfatase enzyme deficiency. MPS-IVA patients show severe extra-skeletal and skeletal manifestations, featured by bone pain and deformities, frailty fractures and early onset osteoporosis. The enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with elosulfase alpha stabilizes the MPS-IVA extra-skeletal manifestations but does not significantly improve MPS-IVA skeletal manifestations. We administered an integrated therapy to an MPS-IVA 41-year-old male patient, composed of zoledronic acid, cholecalciferol and a normocalcemic (calcium intake >1 g/day), hyposodic (sodium intake

Background and objectives: In spite of bone’s healing capacity, critical-size bone defect regeneration and peri-implant osseointegration are challenging. Tissue engineering provides better outcomes, but requires expensive adjuncts like stem cells, growth factors and bone morphogenic proteins. Vitamin D (Vit.D) regulates calcium and phosphorus metabolism, and helps maintain bone health. Vit.D supplements in deficient patients, accentuates bone healing and regeneration. Therefore the aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the role of adjunctive Vit.D on bone defect regeneration. Methods: Comprehensive database search of indexed literature, published between January 1990 and June 2022, was carried out. English language articles fulfilling inclusion criteria (clinical/in vivo studies evaluating bone regeneration including osseointegration and in vitro studies assessing osteogenic differentiation, with adjunct Vit.D) were identified and screened. Results: Database search identified 384 titles. After sequential title, abstract and full-text screening, 23 studies (in vitro – 9/in vivo – 14) were selected for review. Vit.D as an adjunct with stem cells and osteoblasts resulted in enhanced osteogenic differentiation and upregulation of genes coding for bone matrix proteins and alkaline phosphatase. When used in vivo, Vit.D resulted in early and increased new bone formation and mineralization within osseous defects, and better bone implant contact and osseointegration, around implants. Adjunct Vit.D in animals with induced systemic illnesses resulted in bone defect regeneration and osseointegration comparable to healthy animals. While systemic and local administration of Vit.D resulted in enhanced bone defect healing, outcomes were superior with systemic route. Conclusions: Based on this review, adjunct Vit.D enhances bone defect regeneration and osseointegration. In vitro application of Vit.D to stem cells and osteoblasts enhances osteogenic differentiation. Vit.D is a potentially non-invasive and inexpensive adjunct for clinical bone regeneration and osseointegration. Long term clinical trials are recommended to establish protocols relating to type, dosage, frequency, duration and route of administration.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble molecule referring to the different isoforms, ergocalciferol (D2) and cholecalciferol (D3). Its physiological functions include increasing calcium serum concentrations. 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D) (Calcifediol), a non-active, circulating instant precursor is seen as a pre-hormone. Studies have shown that a deficiency in calcifediol is related to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, immune system, neurological, and anti-neoplastic functions. Vitamin D supplementation has shown its benefit as prophylaxis and treatment during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and an increase in the prescribing of vitamin D supplementation has been observed. The intention of this review article is to provide guidance on the recommended dosage regimen as a prophylactic measure during COVID-19 and its use as a supplement in general. From this review article, it is clear that vitamin D has an important role to play not only in COVID-19 but also in various other health aspects of the human body. Contribution: This review article highlighted the role of vitamin D in managing vitamin D deficiency and its role as a supplement in the management of respiratory tract infections, especially COVID-19. This overview can assist physicians in optimising healthcare by optimised dosing recommendations and indications.

Introduction. Vitamin D is a liposoluble vitamin that has many important roles in the human body. Daily requirements for vitamin D are met through intake of food and exposure to sunlight. The high frequency of vitamin D deficiency is a public health problem that can be corrected using food supplements (FS), which is why its consumption is increasing. The quality of FS, including the content of active components, depends on the good manufacturing practice which is not strictly regulated for the production of FS, as well as the formulation, packaging and storage. Because of that, the quality of FS can be variable. The aim of our pilot study was to examine the conformity of the actual determined content of vitamin D and the declared content in 49 FS, in the form of tablets and capsules, present on the market in Republic of Srpska. Method. Determination of vitamin D content was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results. The range of the determined content of vitamin D in relation to the declared content, expressed as a percentage, was from 64,4% to 188,8%, whereby the deviation is not statistically significant (mean: 100.50%; Cl 95% -0.54 to 0.17; p=0.313 tablets; mean: 98.02%; Cl 95% -3.00 to 0.42; p=0.127 capsules). When measurement uncertainty is taken into account, only one sample (2.0%) was outside the legally allowed range (88.8% more than labeled). Conclusion. Therefore, it has been shown that most of the examined products are of satisfactory quality in terms of vitamin D content, but it is necessary to continuously monitor the food supplements that are on the market.

ABSTRACT Objective: The occurrence of partial remission (honeymoon phase) in type 1 diabetes (T1D) has been associated with a reduced risk of chronic microvascular complications of diabetes. We have published case reports showing that a combination therapy with the DPP-4 inhibitor sitagliptin plus vitamin D3 (VIDPP-4i) can prolong the honeymoon phase in patients with new-onset T1D. In the present case-control study, we investigated the frequency of occurrence of clinical remission (CR) in patients with new-onset T1D after VIDPP-4i treatment. Subjects and methods: In this case-control study, we collected data spanning 10 years from medical records of 46 patients (23 females) recently diagnosed with T1D. Overall, 27 participants with CR (insulin dose-adjusted glycated hemoglobin [IDAA1c] ≤ 9) at 12 or 24 months composed the case group, and 19 participants without CR served as the control group. Chi-square with Yates correction was used to analyze the association between VIDPP-4i use and CR, and odds ratio (OR) was used to determine the chance of CR due to VIDPP-4i treatment exposure. Results: In all, 37 patients (80.4%) experienced CR at some time over 24 months. The mean CR duration was 13.15 ± 9.91 months. Treatment with VIDPP-4i was significantly associated with CR. At 24 months, the OR of CR after VIDPP-4i exposure was 9.0 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.21-30.18, p = 0.0036). Additionally, 9 (33.6%) and 4 (14.8%) patients in the VIDPP-4i group experienced insulin-free CR at 12 and 24 months, respectively. Conclusion: Therapy with VIDPP-4i was associated with a higher frequency and duration of the honeymoon phase. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory and pro-autophagy actions and influences the genetic and epigenetic landscape to promote healthy aging. A deficiency of this vitamin leads to accelerated aging. Deficiency of vitamin D causes sarcopenia, osteoporosis, frailty and a high risk of fractures and consequently high morbidity. To complicate matters, in the elderly, various factors like reduced dietary intake, reduced mobility and sun exposure, decreased production and activation of vitamin D, reduction in the population of vitamin D receptors and diminished responsiveness of tissues to vitamin D cause reduced vitamin D levels and function. The above factors indicate that a special considered approach be adopted for the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency in the elderly.

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide. The amount and quality of bone at the implant installation site have an impact on the implant’s prognosis however, the effects of menopause on jaw bone remain unknown. Few studies have looked at the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in India’s general population, but none have looked at the link between vitamin D deficiency (osteoporosis) and postmenopausal women’s jaw Bone Mineral Density (BMD). This is the first study of its sort in India to look at postmenopausal women’s vitamin D levels and jaw BMD. Aim: To evaluate and correlate vitamin D levels and jaw BMD in pre and postmenopausal females undergoing implant therapy. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study will include 50 partially or completely premenopausal (n=25) and postmenopausal females (n=25) having edentulous anterior and posterior maxillary and mandibular jaws. Females will be tested to evaluate their vitamin D levels and jaw BMD with Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and results will be recorded in Hounsfield Units (HU) using Planmeca romexis viewer software. Chi-square test and Students t-test will be used.

Abstract Background Vitamin D status has been implicated in COVID-19 disease. The objective of the COVID-VIT-D trial was to investigate if an oral bolus of cholecalciferol (100,000 IU) administered at hospital admission influences the outcomes of moderate-severe COVID-19 disease. In the same cohort, the association between baseline serum calcidiol levels with the same outcomes was also analysed. Methods The COVID-VIT-D is a multicentre, international, randomised, open label, clinical trial conducted throughout 1 year. Patients older than 18 years with moderate-severe COVID-19 disease requiring hospitalisation were included. At admission, patients were randomised 1:1 to receive a single oral bolus of cholecalciferol (n=274) or nothing (n=269). Patients were followed from admission to discharge or death. Length of hospitalisation, admission to intensive care unit (ICU) and mortality were assessed. Results In the randomised trial, comorbidities, biomarkers, symptoms and drugs used did not differ between groups. Median serum calcidiol in the cholecalciferol and control groups were 17.0 vs. 16.1 ng/mL at admission and 29.0 vs. 16.4 ng/mL at discharge, respectively. The median length of hospitalisation (10.0 [95%CI 9.0–10.5] vs. 9.5 [95%CI 9.0–10.5] days), admission to ICU (17.2% [95%CI 13.0–22.3] vs. 16.4% [95%CI 12.3–21.4]) and death rate (8.0% [95%CI 5.2–12.1] vs. 5.6% [95%CI 3.3–9.2]) did not differ between the cholecalciferol and control group. In the cohort analyses, the highest serum calcidiol category at admission (>25ng/mL) was associated with lower percentage of pulmonary involvement and better outcomes. Conclusions The randomised clinical trial showed the administration of an oral bolus of 100,000 IU of cholecalciferol at hospital admission did not improve the outcomes of the COVID-19 disease. A cohort analysis showed that serum calcidiol at hospital admission was associated with outcomes. Trial registration COVID-VIT-D trial was authorised by the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health products (AEMPS) and registered in European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials (EudraCT 2020-002274-28) and in ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT04552951 ).

Introduction: Neuroblastoma is the most common and earliest childhood tumour with complicated biological and clinical characteristics. The treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical resection, stem cell therapy and many other modes, making the management difficult to tolerate and unacceptable. Thereby increasing the need to develop novel therapies or repurpose already existing ones with anticancer potential. Many studies have shown that vitamin D3 has anticancer properties. Vitamin D3 receptors have been found in neuroblastoma cell lines, according to research. Anticancer property of vitamin D3 hasn’t been studied much in neuroblastoma cell lines. Aim: To evaluate the antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects of vitamin D3 on human neuroblastoma cell lines-SH-SY5Y. Materials and Methods: The present study was an in-vitro study in which human neuroblastoma cell lines SY5Y (a total of 2 cell lines) were obtained from National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, Maharashtra, India, and control cells are cells from the cell lines that were left untreated. The antiproliferative effect of vitamin D3 in human neuroblastoma cell lines evaluated using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. After 48 hours of incubation and treatment with six different (0.01, 0.1, 1, 10, 100, and 1000 ng/mL) concentrations of vitamin D3, the percentage of viable cells was determined using spectrophotometry and compared with control cells (untreated cells from cell lines). Different vitamin D3 (250 ng/mL, 500 ng/mL, 1000 ng/mL) doses were applied to cells and they were then incubated for 24 hours, Cell death and malformations were then observed using a phase contrast microscope, and Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) fragmentation was investigated using gel chromatography. The obtained results were expressed as percentage of inhibition and tabulated in Microsoft Excel Sheet Version 16.16.27 and scatter plot graph was used to calculate IC50 (Half maximal inhibitory concentration). Results: The vitamin D3 showed antiproliferative property in SH-SY5Y cells at an IC50 of 164 ng/mL when tested against human neuroblastoma cells using the MTT assay. Phase contrast microscope demonstrated that vitamin D3 treated cells showed condensation of nuclei, shrinkage of the cytoplasm, convolution of outline and cell peeling demonstrating apoptosis. DNA fragmentation also showed typical DNA ladder formation confirming apoptosis in vitamin D3 treated cells, which showed that the treated cells’ DNA was more damaged than the control cells’ DNA. Conclusion: Vitamin D3 exhibited both proapoptotic and antiproliferative properties, as demonstrated by the MTT assay, Phase Contrast, and DNA fragmentation.

Abstract Objective To investigate the effects of combination therapy with cholecalciferol and lansoprazole on residual β-cell function and glycemic control in children with new-onset type 1 diabetes. Methods Children aged 6-12 years with type 1 diabetes were allocated to receive cholecalciferol and lansoprazole (Group 1) or no treatment (Group 2). Children were maintained on their respective insulin regimens and kept records of blood sugar and insulin doses taken. Children were followed at three-month intervals for six months. Changes in mean fasting C-peptide and HbA1c levels, daily insulin doses, fasting blood glucose and mean blood glucose levels from baseline to end of the study were analyzed. Results Twenty-eight children (14 per group) met the eligibility criteria. Fasting C-peptide levels decreased significantly from baseline to study end in both groups (mean decrease -0.19±0.09ng/mL and -0.28±0.08ng/mL, p=0.04 and p=0.001; Group 1 and Group 2 respectively). However, fasting C-peptide level drop was significantly smaller in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (30.6% and 47.5% respectively; p=0.001). Likewise, daily insulin doses decreased significantly in both groups (-0.59±0.14units/kg and -0.37±0.24units/kg respectively; p=0.001). All patients recruited completed the study. No adverse events were reported. Conclusion Combined therapy with cholecalciferol and lansoprazole for six months was associated with smaller decline in residual β-cell function and lower insulin requirements in children with new-onset type 1 diabetes. Preliminary findings of this small-scale study need to be confirmed by larger studies. Registry of Clinical Trials (www.ctri.nic.in) under number REF/2021/03/041415 N.

Review article is devoted to one of the most common polygenic endocrinopathies in women of reproductive age, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). We review the current criteria used to make a correct diagnosis based on four phenotypes of PCOS: Frank (phenotype A) – biochemical and/or clinical hyperandrogenism, oligo-/anovulation, polycystic ovarian morphology according to ultrasound; anovulatory (phenotype B) – oligo-/anovulation, biochemical and/or clinical hyperandrogenism; ovulatory (phenotype C) – biochemical and/or clinical hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovarian morphology according to ultrasound; non-androgenic (phenotype D) – oligo-/anovulation, polycystic ovarian morphology according to ultrasound. This article presents the main theories of PCOS pathogenesis: peripheral, central, insulin, genetic, and also considers epigenetic factors. PCOS is a multifactorial disease in which genes are responsible for the mechanisms of the process, and environmental factors through epigenetics affect the genetic material. PCOS phenotypes play an important role in clinical practice, as they allow an individualised approach to the selection of therapy in each case, taking into account the pathogenesis of the disease and predicting its course in the future. The main therapeutic options for treating patients with PCOS, taking into account the multifactorial nature of the disease and the patient's interest in pregnancy, are reviewed. The article presents modern methods for the correction of hyperandrogenism and anovulation, with special emphasis on the need for progesterone therapy.

Introduction: The 25-hydroxy (OH)D3 (Vitamin D, Cholecalciferol) and Haemoglobin (Hb) level have a significant role in the regulation of immune response. A decrease in Vitamin D and haemoglobin concentrations is a common risk factor for diabetes. The link between Vitamin D and insulin resistance has been studied more thoroughly in patients with diabetes mellitus, although data from people with prediabetes is scarce. Aim: To study the association of Vitamin D and Hb levels in prediabetes patients. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in the Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai from July 2020 to December 2020. Total 100 subjects with prediabetes conditions were included and their Vitamin D and Hb levels were measured. The patients who gave written informed consent for prediabetes screening according to ADA-2020 recommendations for prediabetes were included and their Vitamin D and Hb level done as part of the routine check-up were collected. Data were statistically analysed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Chi-square test. Results: Data of total 100 patients was analysed, including 68 female patients and 32 male patients. Out of 100 patients, 84 were aged between 25-50 years and 16 were aged between 51-65 years. The difference between male and female were statistically significant with p-value

Introduction: Vitamin D belongs to the group of fat-soluble vitamins. cholecalciferol (D3) and ergocalciferol (D2) are the most important forms. Vitamin D is associated with a regulatory role in calcium and phosphate metabolism. In recent years, there has been attention to its pleiotropic action. Aim: The aim of the study was to present the general characteristics of vitamin D and explore its relation with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, pain management, insulin resistance, influenza and chronic kidney disease (CKD).Description: VDR receptor has been detected in the cells of the intestines, bones, kidneys, heart, brain, prostate, breast, ovaries, skin. In the ovaries, vit. D3 affects the production of progesterone, estradiol or estrone which suggest its important role in the folliculogenesis and ovulation. Women with PCOS have significantly lower levels of vitamin D3 compared to healthy women. It has been suggested that the deficiency of this vitamin may be related to infertility. Research show that vit. D3 may affect the mechanisms of the inflammatory and nocyceptive pain perception. A significant connection has also been found between vit. D3 and the metabolism of the adipose tissue and insulin secretion. Vitamin D3 deficiency may increase the risk of development of obesity and insulin resistance as well as CKD.Summary: The observation of statistically significant correlation between the reduced level of vit. D3 and occurrence of numerous diseases indicates the need for further research to explain the mechanisms in which D3 deficiency may contribute to development of these diseases. This knowledge is important for the development of new prevention and treatment methods of the diseases mentioned in this article.

Aim. To evaluate the status of vitamin D in women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and establish its associations with comorbidity, disease activity, and body composition components. Materials and methods. 86 women with RA (average age 58.18.5 years) were enrolled in the study. We analyzed the relationship of vitamin D levels with clinical and laboratory parameters and with the results of two-energy x-ray absorptiometry. MannWhitney or KruskalWallis, 2 and Spearman tests were performed using Statistica for Windows 10.0 (StatSoft Inc., USA). Results. Vitamin D level was 22.4 [17.8; 27.3] ng/ml: deficiency was detected in 33%, and insufficiency in 46% of women with RA. Only 41% of patients with low vitamin D levels received supplements of cholecalciferol, while only 9% in a sufficient dose. 25(OH)D level was significantly lower in RA patients with sarcopenia, obesity, high activity according to DAS28 and in those who did not receive vitamin D supplements. There werent differences in 25(OH)D levels among subgroups of patient according to age, fertility, BMD status, comorbidity index, RA duration, ESR and CRP levels, medical therapy performed. Conclusion. 79% of patients with RA had low levels of vitamin D, while less than half of them received additional cholecalciferol supplements. Low vitamin D levels in RA patients were associated with high disease activity, sarcopenia, and obesity.

Introduction: Cholecalciferol plays vital role in bone mineralisation. Major circulating and storage form of vitamin D is 25-hydroxycholecalciferol {25(OH)D3} which is formed in the liver after 25-hydroxylation. It is also the form of vitamin D that is measured in blood tests to detect deficiency of vitamin D. There is scarcity of literature to support the best therapy at the lowest effective dose that is practicable, cost efficient and devoid of probable side effects. Oral medication compliance is a major stumbling block to replenishing vitamin D levels in the body. Vitamin D administered intramuscularly (i.m.) may be able to overcome this limitation. Aim: To compare the effectiveness of oral versus intramuscular vitamin D in adults with fracture around hip and vitamin D deficiency. Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted in Orthopaedics Ward in Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, from January 2020 to June 2021. Total 60 male and female, above 18 years, with fractures around the hip and vitamin D levels less 30 ng/mL were included in the study. In group O (n=30) patient received oral vitamin D supplementation of 60000 IU once a week for six weeks. In group I (n=30) patient received single dose of 600000 IU vitamin D injection (i.m.). Follow-up of patients was done at baseline, six weeks and 12 weeeks for serum values of vitamin D, calcium, alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone levels. Bivariate analytical techniques has been used to measure the improvement of group I with group O. Results: The mean age in group I was 60.40±16.38 years and in group O was 59.47±15.17 years (p-value=0.82). There were total 31 females, 13 in group I and 18 in group O. No significant difference was observed among the groups in vitamin D level at the baseline, {group I: 13.84±3.54 ng/mL; group O: 16.45±6.3 ng/mL, p-value=0.053}. At six weeks, the mean value of the vitamin D significantly increased in both groups (p-value=0.001; group I: 40.94±4.67 ng/mL and group O: 33.64±9.89 ng/mL). At the 12th week, the mean value of the vitamin D was significantly higher in group I (44.52±7.09 ng/mL) compared to group O (24.65±10.92 ng/mL), p-value

Background and purpose: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in Iran. Death toll due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is high in this country. The purpose of the present investigation was to provide more information on the relationship between serum levels of vitamin D in confirmed cases of COVID-19 in north of Iran. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was performed in COVID-19 patients (n=80) attending Sari Imam Khomeini Hospital, Iran 2020, who were confirmed for COVID-19 infection with CT-Scan or RT-PCR. Seventy healthy individuals were also examined as the control group. SPSS V19 was applied for data analysis. Results: In this study, 80 patients with COVID-19 (mean age: 57.22 ± 17.44 years old) and 70 healthy individuals (mean age: 48.69 ± 12.99 years) were studied. There were 38 and 35 males in these two groups, respectively. Serum Vitamin D levels were significantly lower in patients with COVID-19 than those in the control group (18.72 ± 12.53 vs. 30.86 ± 15.19 ng/ml, P< 0.001). Conclusion: This study showed that serum levels of Vitamin D were lower in patients with COVID-19 than healthy individuals and frequency of Vitamin D deficiency was higher in these patients. Hence, further studies are needed to clarify the role of serum Vitamin D concentrations in patients with COVID-19 infection.

Vitamin D has pleiotropic effects, including maintaining calcium and phosphate homeostasis, and affecting the immune and endocrine systems. The article summarizes data on the expected biological effects of vitamin D on children’s health. The results of randomized clinical trials evaluating the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the incidence of acute respiratory tract infections are reviewed in detail. It has been shown that daily intake of vitamin D at a dose of 10 to 25 mcg/day (400–1000 IU/day) compared with placebo leads to a significant decrease in the proportion of children and adolescents who have had at least one episode of acute respiratory infection. The criteria for the provision of calciferol and the gradation of the status of vitamin D deficiency and deficiency in different countries are discussed. It has been shown that in the interpretation of the 25 (OH) D results there is a consensus on two points: calcidiol levels below 12 ng/ml (30 nmol/L) are considered clearly insufficient, and levels above 30 ng/ml (75 nmol/L) are considered sufficient in all regions. The incidence of hypovitaminosis D has been reported in children aged 3 to 7 years, where the overall combined assessment, regardless of age group, ethnic composition and breadth of the studied populations, showed that 13% of European children had a serum calcidiol concentration of less than 12 ng/ml (

Objective(s): Acute renal ischemia may cause acute renal dysfunction due to lack of blood supply; the manifestations are renal tubular cell apoptosis, infiltration of macrophages, and microvascular destruction. Many studies have shown that erythropoietin (EPO) and vitamin D3 (VD3) can be used to prevent or treat renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, and VD3 may interact with EPO. In the present study, the effects of the combination of VD3 and EPO in I/R acute kidney injury were studied. Materials and Methods: Rats were divided into 5 groups: sham-operated (SHAM), AKI without treatment (AKI-control), AKI treatment with VD3(AKI+VD3), AKI treatment with EPO(AKI+EPO), AKI treatment with VD3 and EPO(AKI+VD3+EPO). The effects of the combination of VD3 and EPO on AKI were assessed by histologic, inflammation, and apoptosis studies.Results: The degree of damage in renal tissue was significantly reduced in VD3, EPO, and combined groups. Combination therapy with VD3 and EPO markedly improved Creatinine clearance rate (CCr). The combined treatment group showed the lowest F4/80+ and CD68+ expressions. The expression of Bcl-2 in the combined treatment group was higher than those in VD3 group and the EPO group, while Bax’s expression goes in the opposite direction.Conclusion: This provides further evidence that VD3 and EPO have beneficial effects in I/R injury via anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis pathways. The synergistic protective effect of VD3 and EPO is of profound significance in the development of new strategies for the prevention and treatment of acute kidney injury (AKI).

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The World Health Organization has declared that a pandemic situation exists in relation to the disease caused by the new coronavirus, COVID-19. So far, the absence of a vaccine against the new coronavirus has led people worldwide to seek various therapeutic alternatives, including use of cholecalciferol. DESIGN AND SETTING: Narrative review developed by a research group at a public university in Recife (PE), Brazil. METHODS: We searched the literature on the use of cholecalciferol for prevention or treatment of COVID-19, using the MEDLINE and LILACS databases, with the keywords “vitamin D”, “cholecalciferol”, “SARS-CoV-2”, “COVID-19” and “coronavirus”, from January 1, 2020, to June 10, 2020. Narrative reviews, cohort studies and ecological studies were selected. RESULTS: We retrieved 32 references, of which 8 were considered eligible for intensive review and critical analysis. These comprised five narrative reviews, two observational studies and one protocol proposal. Most of the studies selected reported positive effects from use of vitamin D for prevention or treatment of COVID-19. However, there was little quantitative data to assess the real impact of using this vitamin as an intervention against this disease. CONCLUSIONS: Current studies on vitamin D used for purposes other than bone health promotion cannot be taken as support to justify its use in a disease as recent as COVID-19. Studies of greater robustness, with higher levels of clinical evidence, need to be conducted. Rational use of this vitamin needs to be ensured, thereby minimizing the impacts on the patient and the public healthcare system.

The aim of the study was to calculate the costs of lowering blood pressure (BP) in complex antihypertensive therapy of arterial hypertension (AH) with and without cholecalciferol. Material and methods. A total of 154 patients with grade II AH were included into the study. They were divided into the AH(+)Х group - those who received combined antihypertensive therapy plus cholecalciferol 2000 IU / day and the comparison group - AH(-)Х. Office BP and total vitamin D levels were measured. The costs of drug therapy were calculated. Results. On repeated examination, the level of vitamin D in the blood increased and in the AH(+)Х group it became higher (p = 0.0000001) than in the AH (-)Х group. The cost of drug therapy per person in the AH(+)Х group was higher than in the AH(-)Х group ($ 106.8 and $ 91.5, respectively), but the cost of reducing 1 mm Hg systolic BP in the AH(+)Х group was $ 3.9 less than in the AH(-)Х group.Conclusion. The economic costs of reducing systolic BP, with more frequent achievement of its target values, were the lowest in the complex therapy with cholecalciferol, especially in combination with a diuretic.

A link between vitamin D deficiency and susceptibility to infectious diseases was suggested over a hundred years ago. Epidemiological studies show a strong association between seasonal fluctuations in vitamin D levels and the incidence of various infectious diseases, including septic shock, acute respiratory infections, and influenza. Our understanding of vitamin D metabolism and its extra-skeletal functions has improved significantly over the past three decades, and the discovery that the vitamin D receptor and 1a-hydroxylase, an enzyme needed to convert vitamin D to its active form, is present in the cells of the immune system, revolutionized in this area. Recent studies have shown that vitamin D regulates the expression of specific endogenous antimicrobial peptides in immune cells, modulates the immune response and the course of autoimmune processes; these actions indicate the potential role of vitamin D in modulating the immune response to various infectious diseases. This publication reviews the literature on the effects of vitamin D on immunity, its potential in the prevention and treatment of viral diseases, with a particular focus on COVID-19.

Aim.The purpose of the study is to increase the effectiveness of treatment of metabolic syndrome (MS) in young patients with vitamin D deficiency. Materials and methods.The study involved 54 patients with MS and vitamin D deficiency (50% of women, 50% of men), aged 2044years. To assess the concentration of melatonin at a young age, a control group of 42 practically healthy volunteers with comparable demographic characteristics with no signs of MS was formed. Results.In patients with MS and vitamin D deficiency, there was a significant decrease in the average daily level of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin in the urine by 3.7 times, compared with the group of individuals without MS. Patients with MS and vitamin D deficiency (n=54) were randomly assigned to two groups with comparable clinical and demographic characteristics. Patients of the 1st group (n=27) observed dietary recommendations and took the drug Metformin at a dose of 1700 mg/day for 12 months. In the 2nd group (n=27), in addition to the one indicated in the 1st treatment group, correction of vitamin D deficiency was performed (a micelled preparation of cholecalciferol at a dose of 4000 IU/day, for 6 months, then 2000 IU/day for another 6 months) and the level of melatonin (melatonin preparation at a dose of 3 mg/day for 6 months). After treatment in young patients with MS, there was a significant change in the median of the studied parameters in all therapeutic groups, but more pronounced dynamics was observed in group 2 in terms of: WC in women, BMI, insulin resistance index, LDL cholesterol, TG, hs-CRP, hs-TNF-, IL-6, leptin. Conclusion.To increase the effectiveness of MS treatment in young patients with vitamin D deficiency, it is necessary to determine the level of melatonin (urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin) and, if it decreases, carry out correction of melatonin and 25 (OH) vitamin D in addition to the standard therapy of this syndrome.

Rickets is a disease that has been known to mankind for several decades. Overcoming this public health problem was a triumph of science and public policy in the 20th century, but over the course of several decades rickets sharply returned as a result of cultural, environmental and political factors. Vitamin D plays a fundamental role in the regulation of calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, and, consequently, in the development of rickets. In addition to these classic skeletal effects, recent studies have shown that vitamin D has other significant extracellular effects that can complicate the course of the disease and have long-term effects on children’s health. Vitamin D sufficiency in children has been defined as serum 25(OH) D levels of over 30 ng/ml, insufficiency as 21-30 ng/ml, deficiency as less than 20 ng/ml. The upper limit of the reference range is 100 nmol/L, as levels above may be associated with vitamin D toxicity in children. Serum 1.25(OH)2D should not be used for the assessment of vitamin D status. Natural sources of vitamin D are very limited, therefore, its use in the form of nutritional supplements is the primary mean of preventing and treating rickets. The recommended drug for the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency is cholecalciferol (D3). Colecalciferol is recommended to be given at a dose of 1000 IU/day to all children aged 1 to 6 months regardless of the type of feeding or the season of the year to prevent vitamin D deficiency. This article presents modern ways of preventing, diagnosing and treating rickets.

Introduction. Vitamin D plays a fundamental role in the regulation of calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, and in recent decades its non-calcemic effects have been intensively studied.The aim of the work was to analyze the patterns of vitamin D availability in young children against the background of prolonged use of an aqueous solution of cholecalciferol in preventive doses.Materials and methods: 192 children of the first three years of life were examined (Arkhangelsk – 77 (40.1%), Moscow – 38 (19.8%), Stavropol – 77 (40.1%) children). Assessment of vitamin D availability was carried out by the level of serum calcidiol (25(OH)D). Based on the initial vitamin D supply, patients were divided into groups, and participants used cholecalciferol preparations for 30 days.Results. The baseline vitamin D supply was 26.0 (19.5–35.4) ng/ml. Median 25(OH)D in children in the Moscow region is higher than in Arkhangelsk and Stavropol (p

Relevance: immunotropic effects of cholecalciferol are caused by vitamin-D-induced synthesis of antimicrobial peptides (AMP), in particular р-defensins. There are very few studies in pediatric clinical practice confirming the effect of vitamin D availability on AMP synthesis.Aim: analysis of the correlation between vitamin D availability and AMP production and assessment of the effect of cholecalciferol medication intake on defensin synthesis in young children.Materials and methods: 108 healthy children aged 1 month to 3 years were examined, of which 34 (31.5%) were adequately provided with vitamin D (calcidiol level over 30 ng/ml), 40 (37.0%) with insufficiency (20 to 30 ng/ml), 27 (25.0%) with vitamin D deficiency (10 to 20 ng/ml) and 7 (6.5%) with severe deficit (less than 10 ng/ml). In the presence of hypovitaminose of vitamin D the monthly course of cholecalciferol in doses of 2000-4000 lU/day was prescribed for correction, and in normal provision -prophylactic administration of 1000 IU/day. The indices of 25(ON)D, β1- and β2-defensins were determined three times.Results. On natural feeding, the rates of β1-defensin are 2.3 times (p

Abstract Background Emerging evidence showed promising effects of vitamin D on headaches characteristics. Thus, it seems there is still a need for more researches to clarify the mechanisms by which this vitamin exerts anti-migraine effects. Methods The present study was conducted as a 16-week randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial on 80 episodic migraine patients allocated in 2 parallel groups each consisted of 40 patients who received vitamin D 2000 IU/d or placebo. At baseline and after the intervention completion, headache diaries and migraine disability assessment questionnaire (MIDAS) were used to assess migraine related variables in patients. Also, interictal serum concentration of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) (as the dominant mediator of migraine pain pathogenesis) was evaluated using ELISA method. Results The mean (SD) of age in the vitamin D and placebo groups was 37 (8) and 38 (12) years, respectively. ANCOVA test adjusted for baseline values, and confounders showed vitamin D supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in MIDAS score after 12 weeks in the intervention group (21.49 (16.22–26.77)) compared to placebo (31.16 (25.51–36.82) P value: 0.016). Moreover, after controlling for baseline levels, and other variables using ANCOVA, CGRP level was appeared to be significantly lower following vitamin D supplementation (153.26 (133.03–173.49) ng/L) than the patients in the placebo arm (188.35 (167.15–209.54) ng/L) (P value = 0.022). Conclusion According to the current findings, vitamin D supplementation in episodic migraineurs, particularly in those with migraine with aura, may potentially improve migraine headache characteristics and disability probably through attenuating CGRP levels. Therefore, these results could provide a new insight into anti-nociceptive effects of vitamin D; however, more studies are required to confirm our findings. Trial registration The trial is registered in the Iranian registry of clinical trials (IRCT) at 11 July 2018, with IRCT code: IRCT20151128025267N6 .

Catheter ablation is established as a treatment option for patients with high number Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs). However, complications can occur: cardiac tamponade, coronary artery injury or infectious endocarditis. Reversible causes such as hypocalcaemia, hypomagnesaemia and hypokalemia can be responsible for PVCs. Here, a case of nine years old boy, with vitamin D deficiency that presented high number PVCs which corrected using vitamin D dietary supplementation was described. A nine-year-old boy was hospitalised in the Cardiology Department for catheter ablation of PVCs. He presented short of breath during football matches and asthenia. Electrocardiography(ECG) and Holter ECG demonstrated high number PVCs with a morphology consistent of Right Ventricular Outflow Tract (RVOT) origin. Catheter ablation was postponed until Vitamin D came to normal values. Dietary supplementation was performed, together with Holter ECG monitoring. After vitamin D normalisation, PVC burden reduced significantly without the need of catheter ablation or anti-arrhythmic drugs. Catheter ablation and anti-arrhythmic drugs can be avoided in patients with frequent PVCs and vitamin D deficiency.

One of the main fat-soluble vitamins is vitamin D, whose primary function is the regulation of calcium-phosphate metabolism and mineralization of bone tissue. Vitamin D occurs in two forms: vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) – found in plants and fungi (mainly yeasts) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) – produced in animals. Hypovitaminosis of vitamin D leads to metabolic bone diseases in children and adults and can also affect the incidence of many chronic diseases such as: multiple sclerosis, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, bronchial asthma, cancer, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease and heart failure. The aim of the current study was to assess the content of vitamin D in dietary supplements available in pharmacies and supermarkets in the EU. The evaluation involved analysing the ratio of vitamin D content in supplements in relation to the typical demand of the organism. This study assessed 15 popular over-the-counter dietary supplements in the form of tablets, capsules, lozenges and lollipops for children as well as in the form of effervescent tablets. On the basis of the labels on the packaging, the vitamin D content of the supplements was assessed in relation to the dietary demands of the body. Self-administration of over-the-counter multivitamin supplements is not an optimal way to increase vitamin D levels. It is recommended, therefore, that individuals requiring vitamin D supplementation seek specialist medical advice to optimal treatment strategies.

The aim of this paper was to assess vitamin D status in infants and young children in Moscow. 211 children aged 0 to 3 years were examined, of which 103 (48.8%) were under the age of 12 months, 64 (30.3%) children were 2 years old, 44 (20.9%) were 3 years old. The number of boys and girls was almost equal (52.6 and 47.4%). In the examined group of children, only 38.4% had the serum calcidiol level within the normal range (> 30 ng/ml). In other cases (61.6%), the children were diagnosed with one or another degree of vitamin D deficiency: severe deficiency in 2.4%; deficiency in 27.5%; insufficiency in 31.8% of patients. The frequency of registration of vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency increases significantly with the increase of years (R = -0.22, p = 0.0018). When comparing the obtained data with the results of study RODNICHOK, it was found that the vitamin D deficiency value in Moscow children was significantly lower than that in the regions located to the south (Kazan 65.0%; p

Objective(s): The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of vitamin D on glucose metabolism, as well as the expression of five key genes involved in the development of diabetes complications in liver tissue of diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups (8 rats in each group). The first group served as control and the other two groups received an intraperitoneal injection of 45 mg/kg streptozotocin to develop diabetes. Groups were treated for four weeks either with placebo or vitamin D (two injections of 20000 IU/kg). Thereafter, serum levels of glucose, insulin and HbA1c were assessed. Liver tissue was examined for the level of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and the gene expression of AGE cellular receptor (AGER), glyoxalase-1 (GLO-1), aldose reductase (AR), O-linked N-acetylglucosamine transferase (OGT) and glutamine/ fructose-6-phosphate aminotransferase (GFAT). Results: Vitamin D injection resulted in a significant increase in plasma level of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, which could improve hyperglycemia about 11% compared to placebo-receiving diabetic rats (P=0.005). Insulin level increased as a result of vitamin D treatment compared to control (3.31±0.65 vs. 2.15±0.79; P= 0.01). Serum HbA1c and liver AGE concentrations had a slight but insignificant reduction following vitamin D intake. Moreover, a significant decline was observed in gene expression of AGER and OGT in liver tissue (P=0.04 and PConclusion: Vitamin D might contribute in ameliorating diabetes complications not only by improving blood glucose and insulin levels, but also by suppressing AGER and OGT gene expression in the liver.

Vascular calcification (VC) and malnutrition associated with cardiovascular disease are common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) treated with dialysis. VC, which reflects vascular aging, and malnutrition are also encountered in the non-CKD elderly population. This similarity of clinical findings suggests that the progression of CKD is related to aging and the existence of a causal relationship between VC and malnutrition. To retard renal progression, a low- or very-low-protein diet is usually recommended for CKD patients. Dietary education may induce malnutrition and deficiency of important nutrients, such as vitamins K and D. Menaquinone-7, a type of vitamin K2, is under investigation for inhibiting VC in elderly patients without CKD, as well as for prevention of VC in patients with CKD. Nutritional vitamin D, such as cholecalciferol, may be considered to decrease the required dose of active vitamin D, which increases the risk of VC due to increased calcium and phosphate loads. Omega-3 fatty acids are important nutrients and their ability to inhibit VC needs to be evaluated in clinical trials. This review focuses on the ability of supplementary nutrients to prevent VC in patients with CKD, in whom dietary restriction is essential.

Vitamin D insufficiency is associated with various disease processes. We determined whether consumption of a diet supplemented with HyD®, a 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25(OH)D3) source, would safely increase plasma 25(OH)D3 concentrations in Golden Retrievers with low vitamin D status. We hypothesised that dietary supplementation with HyD® would rapidly increase and sustain plasma 25(OH)D3 levels in healthy Golden Retrievers with low vitamin D status compared with supplementation with vitamin D3. Of fifty-seven privately owned dogs recruited with written owner consent, eighteen dogs with low vitamin D status were identified and sorted between two groups to have similar initial plasma 25(OH)D3 concentrations, sex distributions, ages and body weights. Dogs of each group were fed a dry dog food supplemented with either 16 μg/kg of 25(OH)D3 as HyD® (n 10) or 81 μg/kg of cholecalciferol (D3) (n 8) for 4 months. Plasma 25(OH)D3 concentrations were determined monthly. A significant time effect (P < 0⋅001) and time by group interaction (P = 0⋅0045) were found for monthly determined plasma 25(OH)D3 concentrations. Dogs fed the HyD®-supplemented diet experienced a 40⋅5 % rise in plasma 25(OH)D3 values after 1 month (P < 0⋅001) and no change thereafter. Plasma 25(OH)D3 values of dogs supplemented with vitamin D3 did not increase (P > 0⋅05) and were less than values of dogs supplemented with HyD® (P = 0⋅044). With few exceptions, average haematologic, biochemical and urinalyses results remained within the reference range for both groups. Dietary supplementation with HyD® is sufficient to safely increase and sustain plasma 25(OH)D3 levels in healthy dogs.

Aim: Low levels of immune-related micronutrients have been identified in β-thalassemia samples. Moreover, the excess amount of iron, contributing to oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of the disease, alters the immune system in β-thalassemia, which is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials & Methods: Searches of PUBMED and EMBASE were conducted to identify the level and supplementation of micronutrients in β-thalassemia, published from 2001–May 2020. Results: The review found six observational and five interventional studies supporting the importance of supplementing vitamins and minerals among patients with β-thalassemia. Conclusion: Supplementation of immune-related vitamins and minerals might bring benefits to the immune system, especially in reducing oxidative stress in β-thalassemia.

Background: Helicobacter pylori (HPY) provokes gastrointestinal disorders and gastric cancer. We supposed that HPY disrupts the 25-OH-Vitamin-D3 (Vit.D3) absorption. We evaluated the association between Vit.D3 and anti-HPY immunoglobulins (Igs) and the Vit.D3 potency as a predictive biomarker for HPY infection. Materials and Methods: 603 patients' raw data were gathered from a private clinical laboratory. Anti-HPY Igs including serum IgG, IgA, and IgM, in addition to HPY-stool antigen, were assessed by the immunoassay methods. Vit.D3 was determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Correlations, ordinal comparisons, cutoff points (COP), and odds ratio (OR) were estimated. Results: The age mean ± standard deviation was 39.83 ± 18.426 for female and 38.82 ± 16.937 for male participants (P = 0.521). Significant correlations existed after age and gender adjustment between Vit.D3 serum levels and the HPY IgG (R = 0.298) and IgA (R = 0.271) but not for IgM (R = −0.103). Approximately, 48% of males and 36% of females had insufficient/deficient Vit.D3 serum levels (male/female OR: 1.65; 1.16–2.33; P = 0.0051). After age and gender adjustment, the best COP of Vit.D3 to predict an HPY IgG-positive patient was Vit.D3 >32.80 ng/mL with 66.23% diagnostic accuracy (DAAC), 30.43% specificity (SPC), and 90.41% sensitivity (SEN). For the HPY IgA, the values were Vit.D3 >37.83 ng/mL, DAAC = 60.45%, SPC = 58.82%, SEN = 64.20%. For HPY IgM, the values were Vit.D3 >37.32 ng/mL, DAAC = 58.97%, SPC = 57.33%, and SEN = 100%. Conclusions: Vit.D3 had a good association with anti-HPY Igs and may be a good biomarker for immunity competence against HPY infection if the patient's age and gender are considered when interpreting the laboratory results.

Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health problem in all age groups, mainly caused by insufficient exposure to sunlight, inadequate diets, inefficient absorption and use, higher requirements or higher losses. Knowing the implications of vitamin D for the body and sensitive growth and development periods, it is important to perform biological determinations, to make proper prophylaxis and to intervene promptly when changes occur. The age groups recommended for vitamin D administration are infants (whether they receive natural, formula or complementary feeding) and adolescents. Besides the well-known role of vitamin D in phosphocalcic metabolism, there is an increasing debate about the involvement of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of non-musculoskeletal diseases.

Introduction: Current epidemiological studies indicate, that insufficiency of vitamin D affects 50% of the population worldwide. 1α,25(OH)2D – active form of vitamin D affects tissues and organs through vitamin D receptor (VDR). Attention to the role of vitamin D deficiency in hypertension development has been continuously increased during recent decades. The aim of the study: The purpose of this narrative systemic review was to analyse and summarize available data on role of vitamin D deficiency in hypertension development. Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed and Google Scholar database was carried out using the following keywords: hypertension, calcitriol, vitamin D, 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Description of the state of knowledge: Vitamin D influence blood pressure level through renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and parathormon regulation. Studies conducted on animal model could explain possible mechanism of vitamin D influence on blood pressure control. However, clinical trial results are equivocal due to differences in sample size, heterogeneity of patient baseline characteristics, different vitamin D doses and study duration. Summary: Further research is needed to confirm the role of vitamin D in hypertension development.

Abstract Vitamin D, a fat-soluble prohormone, has wide-ranging roles in the regulation of many physiological processes through their interactions with the vitamin D receptors (VDR). It plays a major role in bones and calcium metabolism. Vitamin D deficiency is not uncommon and it has been associated with many health-related issues, including skeletal and non-skeletal complications. The association of low vitamin D and cardiovascular diseases and risk factors has been explored in both animal and human studies. However, studies and trials on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors and hypertension are conflicting with inconsistent results. Therefore, large, well-powered randomized controlled trials are warranted. If successful, supplementation with easy and low-cost vitamin D can impact our health positively. Here, we summarized the evidence for the association of vitamin D, cardiovascular diseases and risk factors, including coronary artery diseases, stroke, and hypertension, and mortality, with special consideration to resistant hypertension.

There is growing evidence that vitamin D3 deficiency could be a contributing factor in the development of different chronic diseases and their complications. A better understanding of how diabetes influences bone tissue metabolism may become an underlying basis for effective prevention and treatment of skeletal disorders in diabetes. This study was performed to define diabetes-associated impairments in bone tissue remodeling in relation to vitamin D bioavailability and to estimate the effects of cholecalciferol treatment. We established that chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes was accompanied by a 2.15-fold decrease of 25OHD content in the serum. Vitamin D deficiency correlated with impairments of tibia biomechanical properties (decline of bone maximal load and stiffness values). µCT analysis of tibia showed respectively 3.0-, 2.1- and 1.3-fold decreases in trabecular bone volume per tissue volume, trabecular number and cortical thickness in diabetes indicating the development of secondary osteoporosis. Diabetes led to up-regulation of NF-κB/phosho-p65, RANKL, RANK (2.3-, 1.51-, 1.72-fold respectively) and down-regulation of OC, OPG and VDR (1.5-, 1.6- and 1.8-fold respectively) in tibial tissue of diabetic mice. Diabetes-associated abnormalities in the serum levels of RANKL, OPG and TRAP were also detected. Restoration of circulatory 25OHD content was achieved due to cholecalciferol treatment. Better vitamin D availability and increased VDR expression resulted in normalization of RANKL/RANK/OPG- and NF-κB-associated pathways that attenuated diabetes-induced structural and biomechanical abnormalities in bone tissue.

Background: Vitamin D can be one of the candidate substances that are used as additional supplementation in the treatment of anxiety-related disorders in women with estrogen imbalance.