The role of vitamin D in the remyelination process in multiple sclerosis: A review of the current criteria

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that results in myelin degradation and varying degrees of axonal degeneration. This disease occurs as nerve lesions or damaged myelin in the central nervous system. Many studies have examined the association between MS and vitamin D deficiency. This suggests that vitamin D may be involved in the immune response process. However, few studies have investigated the role of this vitamin in the remyelination of axonal fibers in MS. Vitamin D receptors and enzymes that convert vitamin D to metabolites that activate the receptor are expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) cells. This indicates the potential effect of this vitamin on the CNS. In vitro studies have also shown that vitamin D is directly involved in the remyelination of neurons by interacting with factors that affect the proliferation and differentiation of neuronal stem cells into oligodendrocyte precursor cells. Understanding the basic mechanisms of the role of vitamin D in the axonal fibers myelination is essential for the management of MS patients with vitamin D deficiency. In addition to reviewing the latest findings on multiple sclerosis, epidemiology and symptoms, this study examines the different dimensions of the role of vitamin D in the process of myelination and remyelination after injury to nerve cells. Further studies in this regard will have clear implications for disease management as well as personalization of disease treatment in the future.