Vitamin-D induced neurological disorders: A review

Abstract

Vitamin D inadequacy represents a pervasive global health concern, impacting an estimated 1 billion individuals. Beyond its well-established role in calcium regulation and skeletal health, contemporary investigations reveal that vitamin D serves as a crucial neuro-steroid hormone, exhibiting diverse protective and regulatory functions within the brain. Neurons and glial cells express vitamin D receptors, with particularly elevated levels found in key regions such as the hippocampus, hypothalamus, thalamus, subcortical grey nuclei, and substantia nigra. Insufficient levels of vitamin D have been associated with compromised functionality in various cerebral processes. The deficiency in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations may be reversible, providing a potential avenue for intervention. Given the limited availability of efficacious therapeutic alternatives, beyond disease-modifying strategies, comprehensive exploration of various risk factors is imperative. Addressing these factors in the realm of neurology may contribute to ameliorating brain disorders. Associations between genetic and environmental factors and prolonged vitamin D insufficiency as a predisposing element for diverse neurological conditions necessitate thorough examination. This underscores the importance of scrutinizing the role and justification of vitamin D-based therapeutic interventions. The straightforward and cost-effective nature of such interventions may offer potential benefits in both primary and secondary prevention of a spectrum of neuropsychiatric illnesses.