Vitamin D3 Levels Research Articles

The Level of 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D3 in Gingival Crevicular fluid and Serum Pre-Post Scaling and Root Planning in Chronic Periodontitis Patients in Western Libya: Comparative Study

Despite the critical role of vitamin D in the body, it can be affected by several factors that may cause deficiency and imbalances in vitamin D levels. The study aimed to evaluate 25-Hydroxy vitamin D3 in chronic periodontitis patients. The total study participants were 40 patients. They were divided into (20) as a study group with moderate to severe chronic periodontitis, and (20) chronic gingivitis patients were chosen as a control group. Gingival crevicular fluid and serum samples were collected at baseline and six weeks after therapy for the study group and at baseline for the control group. Systemic and local levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D3 were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. The study group of diseased patients received initial periodontal therapy (SRP). The study showed that respective local 25-Hydroxy vitamin D3 levels significantly increased from baseline up to six weeks after (SRP) (3.41ng/ml versus 4.57ng/ml), P=0.022. The respective systemic 25-Hydroxy vitamin D3 levels significantly increased after six weeks from SRP (39.88ng/ml versus 41.48 ng/ml), P=0.001.

The determination of heart failure with preserved systolic function by using Galectin-3 and other cardiac markers is affected by vitamin D status

Objective: Vitamin D affects heart muscle contraction through its direct and indirect effects on calcium and phosphorus metabolism. We aimed to investigate N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, high-sensitive troponin-I, galectin-3, fibroblast growth factor-23, suppression of tumorigenesis-2, and parathormone levels concerning Vitamin-D status in patients with heart failure with preserved systolic function. Materials and Methods: Seventy-one patients diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and 61 healthy individuals as a control group were enrolled in the study. The relation between vitamin-D level and heart failure with preserved ejection and the determination of cut-off levels of all parameters was evaluated using ROC and logistic regression analyses. Results: While vitamin-D levels in the patient group were lower than the controls (median 14.5 vs. 21.11 ng/ml, P=0.002), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, galectin-3, suppression of tumorigenesis-2 and parathormone levels in the patient group were significantly higher. The area under the curve values of these four elevated markers in the ROC analysis was significant for the diagnosis of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. In the logistic regression analysis, a one-unit decrease in vitamin-D increased the risk of having heart failure with preserved systolic function 1,084 times, while a 10-unit categorical decrease in vitamin-D increased the risk 2,27 times. In the patient group, the area under the curves for N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, galectin-3, suppression of tumorigenesis-2 and parathormone were higher when vitamin-D was >20 ng/ml compared to the group with vitamin-D < 20 ng/ml. Conclusions: N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, galectin-3, suppression of tumorigenesis-2 and parathormone were affected by the vitamin-D status in determining heart failure with preserved systolic function, with increased detection capability when vitamin-D is >20 ng/ml.

Synergistic effect of metformin and vitamin D3 on osteogenic differentiation of human adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells under high d-glucose conditions

IntroductionVitamin D3 plays a vital role in bone health, with low levels of vitamin D3 being related to skeletal fragility, fractures, and metabolic disorders such as diabetes. Metformin is known as an antihyperglycemic agent for regulating blood sugar. A correlation between diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis is attracting considerable interest, and research to find the prevention and treatment is gradually being studied. In this study, we investigated the effect of metformin and vitamin D3 on osteogenic differentiation of human adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSCs) under high d-glucose concentrations and optimized by combining vitamin D3 and metformin in the process. MethodsROS production of AT-MSCs under high d-glucose conditions was measured by DCFH-DA assay. The differentiated AT-MSCs were analyzed by Alizarin Red S staining and optical density measurement. The investigation involved the examination of osteogenic master genes' expressions using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) techniques. ResultsInterestingly, the results have shown that human AT-MSCs will exhibit high ROS accumulation and low osteogenic differentiation capabilities, indicated by low calcium deposition, as well as low expression of indicative genes such as ALP, Runx-2 under high d-glucose conditions. The combination of vitamin D3 and metformin remarkedly accelerated the osteogenic differentiation of AT-MSCs under high d-glucose concentrations more effectively than the administration of either agent. ConclusionsThis study partially explains an aspect of an in vitro model for pre-clinical drug screening for osteoporosis-related diabetic pathological mechanisms, which can be applied for further research on the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis in diabetic patients.

Emerging role of vitamin D3 in alleviating intestinal structure injury caused by Aeromonas hydrophila in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)

Bacterial pathogens destroy the structural integrity of functional organs in fish, leading to severe challenges in the aquaculture industry. Vitamin D3 (VD3) prevents bacterial infections and strengthens immune system function via vitamin D receptor (VDR). However, the correlation between VD3/VDR and the structural integrity of functional organs remains unclarified. This study aimed to investigate the influence of VD3 supplementation on histological characteristics, apoptosis, and tight junction characteristics in fish intestine during pathogen infection. A total of 540 healthy grass carp (257.24 ± 0.63 g) were fed different levels of VD3 (15.2, 364.3, 782.5, 1,167.9, 1,573.8, and 1,980.1 IU/kg) for 70 d. Subsequently, fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila, a pathogen that causes intestinal inflammation. Our present study demonstrated that optimal supplementation with VD3 (1) alleviated intestinal structural damage, and inhibited oxidative damage by reducing levels of oxidative stress biomarkers; (2) attenuated excessive apoptosis-related death receptor and mitochondrial pathway processes in relation to p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling (P < 0.05); (3) enhanced tight junction protein expression by inhibiting myosin light chain kinase signaling (P < 0.05); and (4) elevated VDR isoform expression in fish intestine (P < 0.05). Overall, the results demonstrated that VD3 alleviates oxidative injury, apoptosis, and the destruction of tight junction protein under pathogenic infection, thereby strengthening pathogen defenses in the intestine. This finding supports the rationale for VD3 intervention as an essential practice in sustainable aquaculture.

EFFECT OF CHOLECALCIFEROL (VITAMIN D3) LEVELS ON VARIOUS TIMES AND DURATIONS OF EXPOSURE TO ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT (SUN EXSPOSURES)

Sunbathing triggers the vitamin D production, which functions to increase the immune system. Vitamin D is very beneficial for the health of the body, exposure to sunlight in sufficient time the body will get adequate vitamin D. The purpose of this study is to explain the level of vitamin D3 levels that are often found to occur due to exposure to ultraviolet rays of the sun (Sun Exposures). This research method is an experimental study with a completely randomized design (CRD). The research design used was a randomized post test only control group design. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal Wallis test with statistical test results obtained levels of Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) with p value = 0.675 (&gt; 0.05) meaning there was no difference in each treatment group.

The roles of serum vitamin D and tobacco smoke exposure in insomnia: a cross-sectional study of adults in the United States.

Tobacco smoke exposure and vitamin D (VD) status were both associated with insomnia. However, the combined effect of smoking and VD on insomnia has not been discussed. This study aimed to explore the role of VD in the association between tobacco smoke exposure and insomnia. Data on adults were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) database in 2005-2008 for this cross-sectional study. Weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore the associations between serum cotinine, serum VD, and insomnia. A surface diagram was drawn to reflect the effect of VD on the association between serum cotinine and insomnia. In addition, the potential regulating effect of VD in subgroups of smoking status was also performed. The evaluation index was odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Among the eligible participants, 1,766 had insomnia. After adjusting for covariates, we found that elevated serum cotinine levels were associated with higher odds of insomnia [OR = 1.55, 95% CI: (1.22, 1.97)]. However, the relationship between serum VD level and insomnia was not significant (P = 0.553). Higher serum cotinine levels were also associated with higher odds of insomnia [OR = 1.52, 95% CI: (1.17, 1.98)] when serum VD level was <75 nmol/L; however, this relationship became non-significant when serum VD concentration was elevated (P = 0.088). Additionally, the potential regulating effect of VD was also found in adults who were not smoking. VD may play a potential regulative role in the association between tobacco smoke exposure and insomnia. Further studies are needed to clarify the causal relationships between VD, tobacco smoke exposure, and insomnia.

The clinical value of serum-related indexes in differentiating simple premature thelarche from idiopathic central precocious puberty.

To explore the changes of serum-related indexes at different time points, so as to identify the critical time of converting from simple premature thelarche (PT) to idiopathic central precocious puberty (ICPP). This is a retrospective study. The subjects of the study were 50 girls with PT who were admitted to the Children's Hospital of Hebei Province from January 2019 to September 2020. The enrolled 50 children were divided into the conversion group(n=12) and the non-conversion group(n=38) according to whether PT was converted into ICPP during follow-up. Furthermore, the levels of serum-related indexes and uterine and ovarian volumes were compared after the diagnosis of PT. The IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels of children in the conversion group began to change significantly from six months after the diagnosis, with statistically significant differences when compared with the levels of children at the initial diagnosis, three months and those of the non-conversion group at the same time points (p<0.05). The levels of vitamin-D, DHEA and leptin began to change significantly at nine months after the diagnosis (p<0.05). Besides, uterine and ovarian volumes in the conversion group began to increase significantly six months after the diagnosis, with statistically significant differences when compared with those in the non-conversion group (p<0.05). Findings in our study suggest that regular monitoring of vitamin-D, IGF-1, IGFBP-3, DHEA and leptin levels, and uterine and ovarian volumes can predict the conversion from PT to ICPP at an early stage.

Effect of Vitamin D3 Levels on Varicella-Zoster Virus Infection and IFN-Gamma Expression in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study in Iraq

Background: This study aimed to explore the correlation between Vitamin D3 levels and IFN-Gamma expression in children residing in the southern and central provinces of Iraq. Vitamin D3 plays a pivotal role in immune function, and IFN-Gamma is a crucial cytokine involved in antiviral defense. Investigating the connection between Vitamin D3 and IFN-Gamma offers valuable insights into immune responses and potential implications for infectious diseases.Methods: A case-control study was conducted, involving children from various schools and kindergartens in the southern and central provinces of Iraq. The study assessed Vitamin D3 levels and measured IFN-Gamma expression. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the relationship between these variables.Results: The outcomes revealed a significant positive correlation between Vitamin D3 levels and IFN-Gamma expression within the study population (p &lt; 0.05). Children with higher Vitamin D3 levels exhibited elevated IFN-Gamma expression, suggesting a possible immunomodulatory impact of Vitamin D3 on IFN-Gamma production.Conclusion:These findings underscore the importance of maintaining adequate Vitamin D3 levels to support immune function, particularly in relation to IFN-Gamma expression. Improving Vitamin D3 status could potentially bolster antiviral defense mechanisms and reduce susceptibility to viral infections among children in the southern and central provinces of Iraq. Further investigation is warranted to delve into the underlying mechanisms and potential clinical ramifications of this significant association. Additionally, exploring the long-term effects of maintaining optimal Vitamin D3 levels on immune function and the outcomes of infectious diseases in this population would offer valuable insights for preventive and therapeutic strategies.

Effects of Vitamin D3 level on the gene expression of Immune checkpoint Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes antigen-4 in Iraqi patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis is chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease that affects synovium, rheumatoid arthritis. Antigen presentation cells (APCs) link B7-1 and B7-2 with cytotoxic T-lymphocyte related protein-4 (CTLA-4), the member of the immunoglobulin superfamily, that causes T-regulatory cells to cause APCs to produce an inhibitory signal to autoreactive T cells (Treg). This study looked at the effects of vitamin D3(Vit-D3) on the expression of the CTLA-4 gene in whole blood taken from RA patients.Methods: The case control study was conducted on 100RA patients acute and remission stages of the disease depending on DAS-28 and CDAI with respect to the level of vitamin D3. The cases and samples were obtained from Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq from Jun 2022 to January 2023. In addition,45 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. Standardized gene expression at a level of a reference gene (GAPDH) and enumerated by the ∆Ct-value and fold change (2-∆∆Ct) method using qPCR. The ESR was measured in all subjects and serum CTLA-4, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (ACCP), RF was measured using ELISA techniques. The D3 level was assessed using immunofluorescent technique.Results: Significantly increased ESR and serum CTLA-4 levels, ACCP, CRP, RF in RA patients compared to controls (p≤0.05), respectively. The vitamin D3 was significantly reduced in acute cases and substantial raised in remission case compared to the controls (p≤0.05) fold change of gene expression was dramatically elevated in patients excepts in acute male cases compared to 1. There was a significant positive correlation between vitamin D3 and CTLA-4 expression.Conclusion: The current study showed that Vit-D3 up-regulates CTLA-4 gene expression as the defensive mechanism in contradiction of a severity of a disease and possible therapeutic targets through the action of Treg population and immunotolerance.

Machine learning classification of vitamin D levels in spondyloarthritis patients

ObjectivesPredict the 25 dihydroxy 20 epi vitamin d3 level (low, medium, or high) in spondyloarthritis patients. MethodsObservational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. We collected information from 115 patients. From a total of 32 variables, we selected the most relevant using mutual information tests, and, finally, we estimated two classification models using machine learning. ResultWe obtain an interpretable decision tree and an ensemble maximizing the expected accuracy using Bayesian optimization and 10-fold cross-validation over a preprocessed dataset. ConclusionWe identify relevant variables not considered in previous research, such as age and post-treatment. We also estimate more flexible and high-capacity models using advanced data science techniques.

Portable graphene oxide modified immunosensor for the detection of Vitamin D3

The prompt asserts that identifying low levels of vitamin D (hypovitaminosis D) in pregnant women and infants at an early stage is crucial due to the irreversible clinical consequences that can result. The measurement of 25-hydroxy Vitamin D3 levels can serve as a valuable indicator of the risk of developing Vitamin D deficiency. Graphene, a two-dimensional material composed of sp2 hybridized carbon atoms, is highly regarded due to its exceptional thermal, electronic, optical and mechanical properties, as well as its single-atom thickness and large surface area. In this investigation, graphene oxide (GO) were incorporated into paper electrodes, creating a cost-effective material that served as a matrix for developing an immunosensor. Using modified Hummer’s method, graphene oxide was synthesized and subsequently drop-cast onto the surface of a screen-printed paper electrode (SPPE), resulting in enhanced electrochemical signal. Thereafter, SPPE was modified with graphene oxide (GO) and further functionalized with 25-hydroxy Vitamin D3 monoclonal antibody using cross-linking chemistry of EDC:NHS. To characterize the synthesized GO, various analytical techniques were employed, including UV–Vis, FT-IR, Particle Size Analyser, Raman analysis, FE-SEM, TEM and XRD analyses. The stratified modification of the electrode surface was monitored through FT-IR and EIS techniques. Finally, the sensor response was measured after hybridization with different antigen concentrations by CV and DPV analyses. For electrochemical measurements, “K3[Fe (CN)6]3-/4- (5 mM in PBS buffer, pH 7.2)” was utilized as a redox indicator. The developed smart phone android based immunosensor showed a sensitivity of 2036.12µA/mm2/fg and LOD 5.96 fg/µL for electrochemical detection of vitamin D3.

Feeding Programs and Addition High Levels of Calcium, Phosphorus and Vitamin D3 to Aged Laying Hens’ Diets on Productive Performance

This study was conducted in poultry farm belong to Department of Animal Production/College of Agriculture/University of Anbar from 15/3/2022 to 6/6/2022 (84) days, 3 periods (28 days/period). The aim of studying was studying effect of feeding programs and addition high levels of Calcium, phosphorous and vitamin D3 to aged laying hens’ diets on productive performance. In this study, 150-layer hens of Lohmann Brown breed, aged 52 weeks were used in this experiment. Laying hens were distributed randomly to ten treatments with five replicates per treatment (3 hens/replicate) in close system (cages). A completely randomized experimental design with a 2x2x2 factorial arrangement consisting Morning feeding with once time (A1), Evening feeding with twice times equal half (A2) 6 hours difference between the first and second period. Feed Additives (B) included: B1(3000 IU vitamin D3, 3.5% Ca and 0.5% P). B2(5000 IU vitamin D3, 4% Ca and 0.6% P.), B3(5000 IU vitamin D3, 4.5% Ca and 0.7% P), B4 (7000 IU vitamin D3, 4% Ca and 0.6% P), B5 (7000 IU vitamin D3, 4.5% Ca and 0.7% P). During the experimental periods hen’s performance traits included egg production H.D%, egg weights, egg mass, feed consumption, and feed conversion ratio were recorded. The results of statistical analysis showed that no effect of feeding programs A1 and A2 on productive performance which included egg production (H.D %), egg weight, egg mass, feed consumption and feed conversion ratio.

Effects of Long-Term High-Ergosterol Intake on the Cholesterol and Vitamin D Biosynthetic Pathways of Rats Fed a High-Fat and High-Sucrose Diet.

Dyslipidemia is a lifestyle-related (physical inactivity or obesity) disease; therefore, dietary foods that can easily be consumed in daily life is important to prevent dyslipidemia. Ergosterol, a precursor of vitamin D2, is a fungal sterol present in the membranes of edible mushrooms and other fungi. Ergosterol is converted to brassicasterol by 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7), a cholesterol biosynthesis enzyme that converts 7-dehydrocholesterol (a precursor of vitamin D3) into cholesterol. Previously, we reported that ergosterol increases 7-dehydrocholesterol, decreases cholesterol levels by competitive effect of DHCR7, and reduces DHCR7 mRNA and protein levels in human HepG2 hepatoma cells. Here, we investigated the effects of long-term high ergosterol intake on the cholesterol, vitamin D2, and D3 biosynthetic pathways of rats fed a high-fat and high-sucrose (HFHS) diet using GC-MS and LC with tandem mass spectrometry. In HFHS rats, oral ergosterol administration for 14 weeks significantly decreased plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total bile acid, and cholesterol precursor (squalene and desmosterol) levels and increased 7-dehydrocholesterol levels compared to HFHS rats without ergosterol. Ergosterol, brassicasterol, and vitamin D2 were detected, cholesterol levels were slightly decreased, and levels of vitamin D3 and its metabolites were slightly increased in rats fed HFHS with ergosterol. These results showed that ergosterol increased vitamin D2 levels, inhibited the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway, and possibly promoted vitamin D3 biosynthesis in vivo. Therefore, daily ergosterol intake may aid in the prevention of dyslipidemia.

Role of glutathione reduction in causation severe complications of coronavirus disease-2019

Abstract Background: Coronavirus is a pandemic disease that emerged in China in 2019 with severe respiratory syndromes in conjunction with organ failure and advanced mortality rate where it has attracted worldwide interest. The pathogenicity of the virus increases by exacerbated oxidative stress that leads to the accumulation of free radicals in the body. Frequently, those free radicals are neutralized by antioxidants, especially glutathione. Objective: Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the role of glutathione in the pathogenicity of the virus alongside certain blood parameters. Materials and Methods: In this study, 90 participants were examined for glutathione levels using a specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit in addition to the levels of hemoglobin (Hb). Ferritin and vitamin D3 were also measured as they are linked to the level of glutathione in coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Result: The lowest level of Reduced glutathione in COVID-19 hospitalized patients especially male patients alongside with vitamin D3 and Hb levels. Whereas a significant (P &lt; 0.05) increase in ferritin level was recorded. However, a significant (P &lt; 0.05) increase in ferritin level was recorded. Conclusion: This study showed a significant relationship between glutathione level and disease severity in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, where the depletion of the glutathione level may have a central role in COVID-19 severity and pathophysiology.

Effect of Adding Different Levels of Vitamin D3 to Diet and its Relationship to Qualitative Traits and Hatchability for Japanese Quail

A study was conducted to understand the effect of adding different levels of vitamin D to the diet of Japanese quail and its relation to qualitative traits and hatchability. The duration of the experiment was 8 weeks. 240 birds (180 females + 60 males) were used on the basis of homogenization, at the age of (45) days, from Japanese quail; The birds were randomly distributed into 4 treatments, each containing 3 replicates, 15 females and 5 males for each replicate, as the birds were raised in floor cages inside the hall. The experimental treatments were distributed as follows: T1: Males and Females feed in diet free from additives D3 control diet) T2: Adding D3 by 50 mg kg - feed from D3 T3: Adding D3 by 100 mg kg -1 m -1 feed from D3 T4: Adding D3 by 150 mg kg feed from D3. The results showed a significant improvement (P ≤ 0.05) in some qualitative characteristics of the egg during the first and second period and the average of the two periods for the treatments compared with the control treatment from the experiment. While the results showed that there were no significant differences in the characteristics of fertility and hatching for each of the first and second hatching, and the rate of hatching for the two treatments compared with the treatment control of the experiment.

Abstract B067: Markers of vitamin D3 activity in normal breast tissue and subsequent breast cancer: A pilot study

Abstract Vitamin D3 (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3)), has been hypothesized to be associated with breast cancer initiation and progression through several different mechanisms. In addition to playing a key role calcium and phosphate homeostasis, it has been shown to be involved in various processes associated with carcinogenesis, including immune modulation, proliferation, and cellular differentiation. Population-based studies have consistently shown circulating levels of vitamin D3 are lower among African American populations compared to other racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Epidemiologic evidence is mixed as to whether circulating vitamin D3 levels are associated with risk of developing breast cancer, with a recent meta-analysis reporting null results. Fewer reports examine the association between tissue-based markers of vitamin D3 metabolism and breast cancer risk. Here, we seek to determine whether the target of vitamin D3, the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), and vitamin D3 synthesizing and degrading enzymes (CYP24A1, CYP27B1, respectively) are present in normal breast tissue, and if so, whether presence in the tissue is associated with risk of subsequent breast cancer. We utilized tissue specimens from the Susan G. Komen Tissue Bank at Indiana University to determine the expression of VDR, CYP24a1 and CYP27b1 in tissue from healthy, cancer-free donors. We selected n=14 women who developed a subsequent breast cancer, age, self-reported race and ethnicity-matched to n=28 women who did not develop cancer. Healthy breast tissue from n=4 men were also included, although results are preliminary and will only be described. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed for VDR (Cell Signaling), CYP24A1 (Invitrogen) and CYP27B1 (Santa Cruz Biotechnology) on the formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue. Slides will be scored by a breast pathologist to determine the amount and intensity of the staining. Descriptive statistics will be used to summarize donor characteristics and IHC markers, including results stratified by self-reported race. Correlations between IHC markers will also be assessed. Logistic regression models will be performed to determine if an association exists between VDR, CYP24A1, CYP27B1 and development of breast cancer. Understanding the protein expression of normal breast tissue in those who do and do not develop breast cancer may identify pathways amenable to prevention strategies. Citation Format: Anastasia Ebersole, Rana German, Michele L. Cote. Markers of vitamin D3 activity in normal breast tissue and subsequent breast cancer: A pilot study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr B067.

Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism and serum vitamin D level as risk factors for acquiring Type II diabetes mellitus.

The studies on the relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk and vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms are still inconclusive. Therefore, the objective of the study was to assess possible risks of acquiring T2DM due to polymorphisms in the VDR gene or abnormal serum levels of VD. 362 participants (181 T2DM patients and 181 healthy controls) from the Diabetic Center, Sulaimaniyah/Iraq, from December 2020 to May 2021 were volumtarily enrolled in the study. For each participant, HbA1c, fasting blood sugar (FBS), serum cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglyceride (TG), markers of calcium homeostasis, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), phosphorus, VD and insulin were measured. In addition, FokI, TaqI, ApaI, and BsmI genotypes were also performed using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The results showed that VD level was significantly lower in T2DM compared to the control group. While, HbA1c was significantly higher in T2DM than in the control group. In contrast to AA (P=0.034) and CC (P=0.011) genotype of ApaI (rs7975232) gene polymorphism, which were dominant among the control group, AC-genotype was significantly (P=0.0001) dominat among T2DM group. Meanwhile, TT-genotype of TaqI (rs731236) was significantly (P=0.05) dominant among control group. While there were not any significant differences between other genotypes among T2DM and control groups. In conclusion, low VD-level is a possible risk factor for developing T2DM, and an association was found, especially betweenApaI genotypes and T2DM.

Emerging perspectives: unraveling the anticancer potential of vitamin D3.

Vitamin D3, a fat-soluble vitamin known for its critical function in calcium homeostasis and bone health, is gaining interest for its anticancer properties. Observational studies have suggested a negative relationship between vitamin D levels and the incidence of some malignancies throughout the years, prompting substantial investigation to find its anticancer effects. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to investigate the diverse function of vitamin D3 in cancer prevention and therapy. We explored the molecular mechanism underlying its effects on cancer cells, which range from cell cycle control and death to angiogenesis and immune response modulation. Insights from in vitro and in vivo studies provide valuable evidence supporting its anticancer potential. Furthermore, we look at epidemiological and clinical studies that investigate the relationship between vitamin D3 levels and cancer risk or treatment results. Vitamin D3 supplementation's safety profile and cost-effectiveness increase its attractiveness as an adjuvant therapy in conjunction with traditional treatment regimens. Our critical review of the current literature provides an in-depth understanding of vitamin D3's anticancer effect, covering the obstacles and possibilities in realizing its promise for cancer prevention and therapy. The findings of this study might pave the way for the development of innovative treatment techniques that take use of the advantages of vitamin D3 to fight cancer and improve patient care. As research progresses, a better understanding of vitamin D3's anticancer processes will surely simplify its incorporation into personalized cancer care techniques, hence enhancing patient outcomes in the battle against cancer.

Association of Blood Calcidiol Levels and Metabolic Syndrome in Children and Adolescents With Vitamin D Deficiency.

This retrospective cohort study aimed to determine whether severe calcidiol deficiency [25-hydroxyvitamin (OH)D <30 nmol/L] improvement has a beneficial effect on cardiometabolic parameters in children and adolescents (5-17 years) with or without metabolic syndrome (MetS). Logistic regression analysis was performed to test for multivariate associations between potential confounders and changes in vitamin D (VD) status from baseline to follow-up care when predicting binary categorical outcomes. Of 562 participants, 146 (26%) had MetS. Individuals with severe VD deficiency (VDD) were more likely to have MetS with elevated blood pressure than those with sufficient (≥75 nmol) VD levels (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 4.46; 1.08-18.43; p < .05) at follow-up. In the logistic regression model, every unit increase in VD across time decreased the odds of MetS (AOR, 0.98; 95% confidence interval: [0.96, 0.99]; p < .05). Improvement in VD status demonstrated a beneficial metabolic effect in children and adolescents with severe VDD.

Vitamin D and Acute Diarrhea in Children: A Meta-Analysis

Diarrhea remains a significant health concern worldwide, particularly in developing countries, contributing to 10% of deaths in children under 5 years. Bacterial infections, notably Shigella and Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC), are prevalent causes. This study explores the association between vitamin D3 levels and acute diarrhea in children through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Ten studies, including case-control, cross-sectional, and cohort designs, were analyzed. The meta-analysis revealed a significant relationship between vitamin D3 deficiency and acute diarrhea, indicating a higher risk in children with lower vitamin D3 levels. While conflicting findings exist, this study provides valuable insights into the potential role of vitamin D3 in mitigating the risk of acute diarrhea in children.