Role Of Vitamin Research Articles

Relation between Polygenic Risk Score, Vitamin D Status and BMI-for-Age z Score in Chinese Preschool Children.

Both genetics and vitamin D deficiency are associated with childhood obesity. However, the role of vitamin D status between polygenic and childhood obesity has been unknown. The current study aimed to determine the relation between genetic factors, vitamin D status, and BMI-for-age z score (zBMI) in Chinese preschool children. A total of 1046 participants aged 3.7 to 6.6 years old from the Long-term Health Effects Assessment Project of Infants and Toddlers Nutritional Pack (LHEAPITNP) were included in this study. The polygenic risk score (PRS) was established based on 55 BMI-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived from a published genome-wide association study (GWAS) for BMI. Serum 25(OH)D was used as an index of vitamin D status and measured with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) assay. The Wilcoxon test or Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the differences of variables between different groups and Spearman correlation analysis was used for analyzing the correlations between the PRS, 25(OH)D levels, and zBMI. The PRS showed a positive relation to zBMI (rs = 0.0953, p = 0.0022) and 25(OH)D showed a negative relation to zBMI (rs = -0.1082, p = 0.0005) in the full-adjustment model. In addition, the differences in zBMI at different vitamin D statuses in the low-risk PRS group and the intermediate-risk PRS group were both statistically significant (plow = 0.0308, pintermediate = 0.0121), the median zBMI was both higher at vitamin D insufficiency status. And the difference in zBMI between different genetic risk groups was also statistically significant at vitamin D sufficiency status (p = 0.0077). Furthermore, genetic risk showed a positive relation to zBMI at vitamin D sufficiency status, and the p for trend was 0.0028. Our findings suggested that vitamin D was related to zBMI negatively in Chinese preschoolers and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels may only contribute to lower the zBMI in preschoolers with low and intermediate genetic susceptibility.

Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Vitamin D.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is marked by self-tissue destruction as a consequence of an alteration in the adaptive immune response that entails the evasion of immune regulation. Vitamin D carries out an immunomodulatory role that appears to promote immune tolerance. The aim of this study is to elaborate a narrative review of the relationship between vitamin D status and HT and the role of vitamin D supplementation in reducing HT risk by modulating the immune system. There is extensive literature confirming that vitamin D levels are significantly lower in HT patients compared to healthy people. On the other hand, after the supplementation with cholecalciferol in patients with HT and vitamin D deficiency, thyroid autoantibody titers decreased significantly. Further knowledge of the beneficial effects of vitamin D in the prevention and treatment of autoimmune thyroid diseases requires the execution of additional randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials and longer follow-up periods.

Role of Vitamin E Supplementation on the Reproductive and Growth Performance, Hormonal Profile and Biochemical Parameters of Female Hybrid Red Tilapia

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin E (VE) supplementation on the reproductive and growth performance, hormonal profile, and biochemical parameters of female hybrid red tilapia before spawning season. Seventy-two female hybrid red tilapia were caught with an average body-weight 272.56 ± 34.84g and an average total length 24.3 ± 2.5 cm. Healthy fish were distributed equally into 4 treatments supplemented with (0, 50, 100, 200 mg/kg) of VE given for 8 weeks. VE significantly improved weight gain, length gain, specific growth rate, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, and protein efficiency ratio. 50 mg of VE/kg diet could improve the viscerosomatic index, hepatosomatic index, and gonadosomatic index. Also, it could improve the parameters of biochemical (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, total protein, albumin, globulin, triglyceride, and alkaline phosphatase) and haematology (total erythrocytic and leucocytic count, hematocrit and hemoglobin) and increase FSH, LH, E2 and, progesterone concentrations significantly. The conclusion revealed that the addition of 50 mg of VE /kg diet has a beneficial impact on reproductive and growth performance, hormonal profile, and biochemical parameters of female hybrid red tilapia. So, it is advisable for adding 50 mg/kg of vitamin E to the fish diet before the spawning season (pre-spawning).

A Critical Review on the Long-Term COVID-19 Impacts on Patients With Diabetes

BackgroundThe world is currently grappling with the potentially life-threatening coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), marking it as the most severe health crisis in the modern era. COVID-19 has led to a pandemic, with the World Health Organization (WHO) predicting that individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of contracting the virus compared to the general population. This review aims to provide a practical summary of the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on patients with diabetes. Specifically, it focuses on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on different types of diabetic patients, the associated mortality rate, the underlying mechanisms, related complications, and the role of vitamin D and zinc in therapeutic and preventive approaches. MethodsRelevant literature was identified through searches on PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct in English, up to April 2023. ResultsCOVID-19 can lead to distressing symptoms and pose a significant challenge for individuals living with diabetes. Older individuals and those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, coronary illness, and asthma are more susceptible to COVID-19 infection. Managing COVID-19 in individuals with diabetes presents challenges, as it not only complicates the fight against the infection but also potentially prolongs the recovery time. Moreover, the virus may thrive in individuals with high blood glucose levels. Various therapeutic approaches, including antidiabetic drugs, are available to help prevent COVID-19 in diabetic patients. ConclusionsDiabetes increases the morbidity and mortality risk for patients with COVID-19. Efforts are globally underway to explore therapeutic interventions aimed at reducing the impact of diabetes on COVID-19.

A study to assess the relationship between vitamin D3 levels and the risk of acute exacerbation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the top three causes of mortality worldwide. Vitamin D deficiency in COPD has been associated with poor lung function and decreased muscle power, which further increases the risk of exacerbations. The role of vitamin D in preventing acute exacerbations of COPD has conflicting results in the literature. Hence, we planned this study to assess the relationship between vitamin D3 levels and the risk of acute exacerbations among COPD patients in a tertiary care center in north India. This was a prospective randomized control trial that was performed on 100 consecutive stable COPD patients attending the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Maharishi Markandeshwar Medical College and Hospital, Solan, India. The patients with subnormal vitamin D3 levels (i.e., less than 30 ng/mL) were divided into the intervention and control groups. Baseline demographic profiles, lung function, COPD assessment test (CAT) score, modified Medical Research Council grade and chest radiology were performed and repeated after 12 months in all these patients. All these parameters were recorded and compared with the baseline values obtained at the beginning of the study. Out of 100 subjects, 96 had vitamin D deficiency, of which 48 were assigned to the intervention group and 48 to the control group. Among the 100 subjects, 74 (74%) were males and 26 (26%) were females, with a mean age of 66.9±9.4 years. The mean vitamin D level was 14.71±6.69 in these 96 patients. The vitamin D level improved after 3 months of supplementation to the mean level of 45.56±16.18 in the intervention group. Vitamin D supplementation was positively correlated with a decrease in the rate of acute exacerbations in the intervention group in terms of reduction in mean CAT score (4.17 in intervention and 1.43 in non-interventional group, p<0.001), number of acute exacerbations (1.7 in intervention and -1.05 in non-interventional group, p<0.001), and number of emergency visits (p=0.0121) during the 9-month period after attainment of a normal vitamin D level. Vitamin D supplementation plays a key role in COPD patients with D3 hypovitaminosis in decreasing COPD acute exacerbations, improving the CAT score, and reducing the number of emergency visits.

An 8-Week Vitamin D3–Fortified Fruit Drink Supplementation Increases Serum Ferritin Concentration: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Malaysian Women With Low Iron Stores

BackgroundThere is limited randomized controlled trial evidence to support the association between vitamin D deficiency and anemia risk, highlighting the necessity for further investigations into the role of vitamin D in influencing iron status. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine the effect of vitamin D3–fortified fruit drink consumption (4,000 IU) on vitamin D and iron status biomarkers among iron-deficient women (serum ferritin of <20 μg/L [to convert μg/L ferritin to ng/mL, multiply by 1]). DesignAn 8-week double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. Subjects/settingA total of 45 healthy, nonpregnant, nonlactating subjects aged 18 through 40 years (mean [SD] 25.3 [4.6] years) were included in the study, excluding those who donated blood 6 months prior, regularly consumed nutritional supplements, or had gastrointestinal or iron metabolic disorders. InterventionSubjects were randomly assigned to receive either vitamin D3–fortified fruit drink or a placebo. Main outcome measuresMeasurements of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), serum ferritin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and full blood count concentrations were obtained at baseline, interim, and post intervention. Statistical analysesA mixed model, repeated measures analysis of variance was used to analyze the intervention effect. ResultsAttrition rate for the study was 13%, with 6 dropouts, and 39 subjects completed the study. Daily consumption of vitamin D3–fortified fruit drink in the intervention group resulted in significant increases in 25(OH)D and serum ferritin concentrations compared with the placebo group. The intervention group showed significantly higher mean (SD) changes (Δ) in both 25(OH)D (Δ 76.4 [30.2] nmol/L [to convert nmol/L 25(OH)D to ng/mL, multiply by .4] vs Δ –1.3 [10.7] nmol/L; P = .001) and serum ferritin concentrations (Δ 2.2 [4.2] μg/L vs Δ –0.3 [3.4] μg/L; P = .048) between baseline and post intervention. The other iron status biomarkers were not affected by the intervention. ConclusionsOur study found that daily vitamin D3–fortified fruit drink supplementation for 8 weeks effectively improved 25(OH)D and iron stores, indicated by increased serum ferritin concentrations, in iron-deficient women. Further research is needed to evaluate its safety, efficacy, feasibility, and optimal food fortification in diverse populations.

Is Vitamin D Deficiency a Risk Factor for Osseointegration of Dental Implants - A Prospective Study.

Early dental implant failure (EDIF) can occur even when optimal materials are used, surgical protocols are strictly followed and the quantity and quality of bone at the recipient site are sufficient. The existence of specific patient-related risk factors require an investigation into the regulatory mechanisms controlling bone metabolism, bone remodelling and bone turnover as well as serum Vitamin D. The implant stability quotient is used as a prognostic indicator for possible implant failure. The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between serum Vitamin D levels and EDIF. A total of 143 implant placement sites were identified in 53 patients enrolled in this study. All patients had the assessments of serum Vitamin D levels side by side with assessments of primary and secondary implant stability at proposed implant sites at the time of implant placement and after 12 weeks using a resonance frequency analysis device. Ten early failures (7%) were recorded. There was no correlation between gender, age, smoking, hyperglycaemia or an increased incidence of early failures. Statistical analysis reported two early failures (4.5%) in patients with serum levels of Vitamin D >30 ng/mL, two early failures (2.3%) in patients with levels between 10 and 30 ng/mL and six early failures (46.2%) in patients with levels <10 ng/mL. The role of Vitamin D as a risk factor for early implant failure should be considered in patients with Vitamin D deficiency. The incidence of early implant failures was higher in patients with low serum levels of Vitamin D. Patients with low serum Vitamin D levels had a greater rate of early implant failure.

The association between vitamin D deficiency and the clinical outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 patients

Background Vitamin D deficiency is an emerging public health problem that affects more than one billion people worldwide. Vitamin D has been shown to be effective in preventing and reducing the severity of viral respiratory diseases, including influenza. However, the role of vitamin D in COVID-19 infection remains controversial. This study aimed to analyze the association of vitamin D deficiency on the clinical outcome of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted among hospitalized COVID-19 patients at two COVID-19 referral hospitals in Indonesia from October 2021 until February 2022. Results The median serum 25(OH)D level in 191 hospitalized COVID-19 patients was 13.6 [IQR=10.98] ng/mL. The serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly lower among COVID-19 patients with vitamin D deficiency who had cardiovascular disease (p-value=0.04), the use of a ventilator (p-value=0.004), more severe COVID-19 cases (p-value=0.047), and mortality (p-value=0.002). Furthermore, serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly different between patients with mild and severe COVID-19 cases (p-value=0.019). Serum 25(OH)D levels in moderate and severe COVID-19 cases were significantly different (p-value=0.031). Lower serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly associated with an increased number of comorbidities (p-value=0.03), the severity of COVID-19 (p-value=0.002), and the use of mechanical ventilation (p-value=0.032). Mortality was found in 7.3% of patients with deficient vitamin D levels. However, patients with either sufficient or insufficient vitamin D levels did not develop mortality. Conclusions COVID-19 patients with vitamin D deficiency were significantly associated with having cardiovascular disease, mortality, more severe COVID-19 cases, and the used of mechanical ventilation. Lower serum 25(OH)D levels were associated with an increased number of comorbidities, COVID-19 severity, and the use of mechanical-ventilation. Thus, we suggest hospitalized COVID-19 patients to reach a sufficient vitamin D status to improve the clinical outcome of the disease.

The Possible Role of Vitamin D Supplementation and Exercise in A Rat Model Of Epilepsy Disease

The Possible Role of Vitamin D Supplementation and Exercise in A Rat Model Of Epilepsy Disease

Vitamin D as a Modulator of Neuroinflammation: Implications for Brain Health.

Neuroinflammation represents a critical immune response within the brain, playing a pivotal role in defense against injury and infection. However, when this response becomes chronic, it can contribute to the development of various neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. This bibliographic review delves into the role of vitamin D in modulating neuroinflammation and its implications for brain health, particularly in the context of neurological and psychiatric disorders. While vitamin D is traditionally associated with calcium homeostasis and bone health, it also exerts immunomodulatory and neuroprotective effects within the central nervous system. Through comprehensive analysis of preclinical and clinical studies, we uncover how vitamin D, acting through its receptors in glial cells, may influence the production of proinflammatory cytokines and antioxidants, potentially mitigating the cascade of events leading to neuronal damage. Clinical research has identified vitamin D deficiency as a common thread in the increased risks of multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, and depression, among others. Furthermore, preclinical models suggest vitamin D's regulatory capacity over inflammatory mediators, its protective role against neuronal apoptosis, and its contribution to neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity. These insights underscore the potential of vitamin D supplementation not only in slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases but also in improving the quality of life for patients suffering from psychiatric conditions. Future clinical studies are essential to validate these findings and further our understanding of vitamin D's capacity to prevent or alleviate symptoms, opening new avenues for therapeutic strategies against neuroinflammation-related pathologies. Neuroinflammation is a crucial immune response in the brain against injuries or infections, but its persistence can lead to diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, and depression. Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) emerges as a regulator of neuroinflammation, present in brain cells such as astrocytes and microglia, modulating immune function. Vitamin D's mechanisms of action include cytokine modulation and regulation of nuclear and mitochondrial genes. It adjusts inflammatory mediators and antioxidants, resulting in neuroprotective effects. Additionally, vitamin D impacts neurotransmitter synthesis and brain plasticity. This positions vitamin D as a potential adjunct in treating diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Lastly, its role in intestinal microbiota and serotonin synthesis contributes to psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and depression. Thus, vitamin D presents a novel therapeutic approach for neuroinflammatory, neurodegenerative, and neuropsychiatric diseases.

Correlation between Polymorphisms of Vitamin D Metabolism Genes and Perianal Disease in Crohn's Disease.

Although the role of vitamin D (VD) in the pathogenesis and progression of Crohn's disease (CD) is known, the association between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of genes linked to vitamin D pathway and CD risk is still under study. Furthermore, no significant association has been previously found between these SNPs and perianal CD (pCD), a severe phenotypic manifestation of CD that may present as perianal fistula, abscess, and recto-vaginal fistula. Among the mechanisms involved in its pathogenesis, local inflammation and intestinal microbiota alteration are recognized. VD seems to act on these elements. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of an association between SNPs of genes coding for enzymes, transporters, and receptors involved in the VD pathway and the occurrence of pCD. Blood samples of 206 patients with CD, including 34 with pCD, were analyzed for VDR, CYP27B1, CYP24A1, and GC genetic variants. VDR Apal Aa genotype and VDR BsmI Bb genotype resulted in an association with pCD (p = 0.01 and p = 0.02, respectively). Our study demonstrates for the first time the impact of the polymorphisms of genes associated with the VD pathway on the onset of pCD. Future multicenter studies are needed to confirm these data.

Role of Vitamin D on Endothelial Function and Erythropoiesis: Implications for Sickle Cell

Endothelial dysfunction and chronic anaemia are key features of sickle cell disease (SCD), which significantly increases the risk of vaso-occlusive crises, pulmonary hypertension and stroke in affected individuals. Evidence indicates that vitamin D (VD), known for bone health, is linked to better endothelial function by increasing nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, and promoting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. It also regulates erythropoiesis by enhancing and prolonging red blood cell production and lifespan. VD deficiency is common in individuals affected by SCD, intensifying the already poor cardiovascular health. Up to date, only one study have investigated the effect of VD supplementation, and endothelial function outcome measures in SCD. The potential benefits of maintaining adequate circulating VD concentration in improving endothelial dysfunction and chronic anaemia would be of immense significance to affected individuals living in sub-Saharan Africa, who bear the greatest burden of the disease, with a substantial impact on morbidity and mortality. There is a lack of clinical data investigating the effect of VD on erythropoiesis in SCD. Therefore, this review aims to examine the current evidence regarding the influence of VD on both endothelial function and erythropoiesis and the clinical implications of enhancing endothelial function and erythropoiesis through VD supplementation in this at-risk group. A thorough search of databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar, was performed to gather relevant articles exploring the interplay between VD, endothelial function and erythropoiesis in SCD. Robust clinical evidence is warranted to show the impact of VD supplementation on improving endothelial function and erythropoiesis in SCD.

The role and importance of vitamin D in patients with Corona virus disesase (COVID-19)

Severe acute respiratory syndrome novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has rapidly progressed from an outbreak to a global pandemic, with new variants emerging rapidly. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection, can lead to multiorgan damage. Due to the highly contagious and fatal nature of the virus, the priority of medical research has been to find effective treatments. Amid this search, the role of vitamin D in modulating various aspects of the innate and adaptive immune system has been debated.The aim of the work: research on the role of vitamin D in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19. Although there are some conflicting results, the consensus is that vitamin D has a number of immunomodulatory effects that may be beneficial in the context of COVID-19 and that low vitamin D levels may result in dysfunction of key antimicrobial effects, potentially contributing to a poor prognosis. The aim of the paper is to investigate the impact and importance of vitamin D in patients with the corona virus.Work methods: During this retrospective study, data were taken from the Registry of those tested for the presence of the SARS-CoV2 virus, Specialist Center "Health House" in Bijeljina. The research included 30 patients positive for the presence of the SARS-CoV2 virus and 30 patients negative for the presence of the SARS-CoV2 virus. The following parameters were observed in the research: age, gender and vitamin D values, data on the body temperature of the patients and the duration of the disease, as well as the obtained results of the inflammatory parameters (Leukocytes and C- reactive protein CRP). The dana of all patients are anonymous. All patients were tested using the molecular method of polymerase chain reaction known as RT-PCR (Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction). Separate samples were tested with Arhitectt Vitamin D reagent by the chemiluminescence method (CMIA), manufactured by Abott Arhitectt and 1000sr. Reference values of Vitamin D are from 75 to 150 nmol/L.Results: The concentration of vitamin D was lower in the group of patients with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) compared to individuals with the absence of the coronavirus disease. There is a tendency towards a negative correlation between the concentration of vitamin D and the duration of the disease in the group of patients with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), as like as the concentration of vitamin D and body temperature in the group of patients with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). There is also a tendency towards a negative relationship between the concentration of vitamin D and parameters of inflammation (CRP, Le) in the group of patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Effect of serum vitamin D levels on the severity of acute pancreatitis: A prospective study

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a serious and complex disorder with varying disease course and severity. Early and prompt interventions are crucial in management of AP. Vitamin D, being a prominent actor in calcium metabolism, also takes part in immunity and thus in immune-system related disorders, ranging from infections to cancer. In this study, the role of vitamin D status of a patient on the severity of AP was investigated.This study was conducted between June 2021 to August 2022 with a total of 315 patients. Blood samples were obtained upon admission. A 25-(OH)D3 level less than 10 ng/ml was defined as vitamin D deficiency. 10–19 ng/ml was defined as vitamin D insufficiency whereas 20 ng/ml or above was considered to be sufficient. Scoring systems (Ranson score, CTSI, BISAP, Revised Atlanta Classification (RAC) were applied.Serum 25-(OH)D3 levels of patients with AP were found to be negatively correlated with severity of the disease according to RAC (p < 0.001). In concordance to this finding, both Ranson score and BISAP were found to be statistically significantly related to 25-(OH)D3 levels. Both scoring systems revealed higher scores in patients with insufficient or deficient levels of 25-(OH)D3. Serum 25-(OH)D3 levels were not found to be related to intensive care unit admission or mortality.This study revealed that serum 25-(OH)D3 level is related to the severity of AP. In the future, interventional studies with vitamin D therapy in otherwise serum 25-(OH)D3 deficient AP patients might reveal a new potential therapeutic agent in this mechanically complex, burdensome disorder.

Role of vitamins A, C, D, E in cancer prevention and therapy: therapeutic potentials and mechanisms of action.

Cancer, a leading global cause of mortality, arises from intricate interactions between genetic and environmental factors, fueling uncontrolled cell growth. Amidst existing treatment limitations, vitamins have emerged as promising candidates for cancer prevention and treatment. This review focuses on Vitamins A, C, E, and D because of their protective activity against various types of cancer. They are essential as human metabolic coenzymes. Through a critical exploration of preclinical and clinical studies via PubMed and Google Scholar, the impact of these vitamins on cancer therapy was analyzed, unraveling their complicated mechanisms of action. Interestingly, vitamins impact immune function, antioxidant defense, inflammation, and epigenetic regulation, potentially enhancing outcomes by influencing cell behavior and countering stress and DNA damage. Encouraging clinical trial results have been observed; however, further well-controlled studies are imperative to validate their effectiveness, determine optimal dosages, and formulate comprehensive cancer prevention and treatment strategies. Personalized supplementation strategies, informed by medical expertise, are pivotal for optimal outcomes in both clinical and preclinical contexts. Nevertheless, conclusive evidence regarding the efficacy of vitamins in cancer prevention and treatment is still pending, urging further research and exploration in this compelling area of study.

The Role of Vitamin C Oxidation in Human Health: Mechanisms, Influencing Factors, and Implications in Context of COVID-19

The Role of Vitamin C Oxidation in Human Health: Mechanisms, Influencing Factors, and Implications in Context of COVID-19

Vitamin D deficiency and its associated factors in active TB patients at a tertiary hospital and three primary health care level facilities in Lusaka, Zambia: A cross sectional analytical study

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading infectious cause of morbidity and mortality in Zambia. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with increased TB incidence and severity but data for the Zambian setting is lacking, inclusive of the general population. We sought to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its associated factors in active TB patients in comparison to matched adults from the general population without TB, and to compare clinical and radiological severity of TB based on vitamin D status.&#x0D; Methods: We enrolled 89 TB patients and 78 matched adults from the general population. Demographic and clinical data was collected. The key findings on physical examination were body mass index (BMI), mid upper arm circumference (MUAC), and signs of undernutrition. Clinical severity was assessed using the TB I Score and the Karnofsky Performance Index (KPI).Chest x-ray and measurement of serum vitamin D levels were done. Radiological severity was assessed using the Timika chest x-ray score. Vitamin D was measured using the Cobas® E411 analyser from Roche Diagnostics (Germany) with vitamin D deficiency defined as &lt;30 ng/ml and chi square used to analyse vitamin D deficiency as a categorical variable.&#x0D; Results: The median (IQR) age was 27.5 (24-38) years in the TB patients and 32 (25-37) years in the non-TB adults (p=0.30).Sixty-nine (77.53%) of the TB patients and 57 (73.08%) of the comparison group were male (p=0.51). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 33.71 % in the TB patients and 15.38% in the comparison group (p &lt;0.01). Associations with vitamin D deficiency were active TB (AOR =2.27; 95% CI = 1.04- 4.95; p=0.04) and undernutrition (AOR 14.5; 95% CI 1.65-126.97; p=0.02). Median (IQR) KPI was 70 (60-80) in the vitamin D deficient patients compared to 80 (70-90) in non- vitamin D deficient patients (p=0.01). Median (IQR) Timika chest x-ray score was 75 (45-115) in the vitamin D deficient TB patients compared to 42.5 (20-75) in the non- vitamin D deficient patients (p&lt;0.01).&#x0D; Conclusions: We found a significant difference in the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in active TB patients compared with matched non-TB adults. Vitamin D deficiency was associated with active TB and under nutrition. TB patients with vitamin D deficiency had more clinical and radiological severe disease than those with normal vitamin D levels. These findings warrant further studies on the role of vitamin D supplementation in TB in Zambia.&#x0D;

The Role of Vitamin D in Determining Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection Outcome: A Prospective Cohort Study

The Role of Vitamin D in Determining Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection Outcome: A Prospective Cohort Study

Maternal exposure to airborne particulate matter during pregnancy and lactation induces kidney injury in rat dams and their male offspring: the role of vitamin D in pregnancy and beyond.

Little is known about the transgenerational effects of maternal exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) on offspring kidney health. This study investigated the effect of maternal administration of PM2.5 or PM2.5 with vitamin D during pregnancy and lactation on renal injury in rat dams and their offspring. Nine pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats received oral administration of normal saline, airborne PM2.5, or PM2.5 with vitamin D from gestational day 11 to postpartum day 21. Kidneys of rat dams (n = 3 for each group) and their male offspring (n = 5 for each group) were taken for analysis on postpartum or postnatal day 21. Maternal PM2.5 exposure increased glomerular damage, tubulointerstitial injury, and cortical macrophage infiltration in both dams and pups; all increases were attenuated by vitamin D administration. In dam kidneys, PM2.5 increased the protein expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR), klotho, and tumor necrosis factor-α; vitamin D lessened these changes. The expressions of renin, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p50 decreased in rat dams exposed to PM2.5. In offspring kidneys, exposure to maternal PM2.5 reduced the expression of VDR, renin, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), Nrf2, and NF-κB p50, but increased cytochrome P450 24A1 expression. Maternal vitamin D administration with PM2.5 enhanced VDR, ACE, and NF-κB p50 activities in pup kidneys. PM2.5 exposure during nephrogenesis may exert transgenerational renal impairment, and maternal vitamin D intake could attenuate PM2.5-induced kidney damage in mothers and their offspring.

The Role of Vitamin K in the Development of Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Neurodegenerative diseases are a growing global health problem with enormous consequences for individuals and society. The most common neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, can be caused by both genetic factors (mutations) and epigenetic changes caused by the environment, in particular, oxidative stress. One of the factors contributing to the development of oxidative stress that has an important effect on the nervous system is vitamin K, which is involved in redox processes. However, its role in cells is ambiguous: accumulation of high concentrations of vitamin K increases the content of reactive oxygen species increases, while small amounts of vitamin K have a protective effect and activate the antioxidant defense systems. The main function of vitamin K is its involvement in the gamma carboxylation of the so-called Gla proteins. Some Gla proteins are expressed in the nervous system and participate in its development. Vitamin K deficiency can lead to a decrease or loss of function of Gla proteins in the nervous system. It is assumed that the level of vitamin K in the body is associated with specific changes involved in the development of dementia and cognitive abilities. Vitamin K also influences the sphingolipid profile in the brain, which also affects cognitive function. The role of vitamin K in the regulation of biochemical processes at the cellular and whole-organism levels has been studied insufficiently. Further research can lead to the discovery of new targets for vitamin K and development of personalized diets and therapies.