Calciferol and health: much more than bones

Abstract

The discovery of “vitamin” D began with the study of childhood rickets. Over the past few decades, however, the nonskeletal effects of this hormone are becoming increasingly recognized, albeit mainly in adults. Categories of disease such as malignancy, autoimmunity, and cardiovascular disorders have been added to the skeletal complications associated with low calciferol status. Although the mechanisms underlying the bone mineral effects of calciferol deficiency are fairly clear, we are in the very early stages of understanding its nonskeletal effects. An early step in this direction is reported in this issue of The Journal by Codoñer-Franch et al from Spain. Studying a group of obese children, the authors found (not unexpectedly) that the group had evidence of vitamin D deficiency, as assessed by low 25-hydroxy-cholecalciferol 25(OH)D levels and elevated parathyroid hormone levels. The authors then looked at a variety of biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial activation. Many of these markers were elevated in the obese children, and in some cases, there was an intriguing correlation with 2(OH)D levels. Obviously, this is very preliminary work. Yet it does hint at the complexity of the relationship between the levels of what was once thought to be a simple nutrient involved in bone development and a host of adult diseases. Article page 848▶ Vitamin D Status is Linked to Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Endothelial Activation in Obese ChildrenThe Journal of PediatricsVol. 161Issue 5PreviewTo examine vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and serum calcium-phosphorus levels relationships to biomarkers of oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation, and endothelial activation, potential contributors for vascular complications in obese children. Full-Text PDF