Vitamin D3 Synthesis Research Articles

Exploring the interplay between DHCR7, vitamin D deficiency, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM): a systematic review.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a growing global health concern. The pathogenesis of T2DM is multifactorial and intricate, involving a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and molecular interactions. Vitamin D (circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration) regulates factors crucial for T2DM, including insulin secretion, sensitivity, and inflammation. Thus, vitamin D deficiency has been linked to poor health outcomes in T2DM patients. The cholesterol-synthesizing enzyme 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7) represents a critical regulatory switch between cholesterol and vitamin D3 synthesis. Recent findings suggest that the enzyme DHCR7 may indicate T2DM glycolipid metabolic disorder and is associated with deficient circulating vitamin D (circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration) status. In this PRISMA-guided systematic review, articles were sourced from two databases, namely, PubMed and Cochrane Library, to evaluate the impact of vitamin D deficiency in patients with T2DM and to explore the emerging role of DHCR7 in T2DM pathogenesis. Our findings strongly indicate a positive correlation between deficient vitamin D status and poor health outcomes in T2DM patients. Finally, this systematic review presents a novel perspective on T2DM development, focusing on the interplay between T2DM-associated hyperglycemia, expression of DHCR7, and abrogation of vitamin D synthesis.

Synthesis of vitamin D3 loaded ethosomes gel to cure chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease: physical characterization, in vitro and ex vivo studies

The purpose of the current work was to develop and characterize ethosomes of vitamin D3 gel that could more effectively work against psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease. Due to vitamin D3 role in proliferation and maturation of keratinocytes, it has become an important local therapeutic option in the treatment of psoriasis. In this research we have initiated worked on ethosomes gels containing vitamin D3 to treat psoriasis. Soya lecithin 1–8% (w/v), propylene glycol and ethanol were used to create the formulations, which were then tested for vesicle size, shape, surface morphology, entrapment effectiveness, and in vitro drug permeation. The drug encapsulation efficiency of ethosomes was 96.25% ± 0.3. The particle sizes of the optimized ethosomes was 148 and 657 nm, and the PDI value was 0.770 ± 0.12 along with negative charge − 14 ± 3. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) along with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) studies confirmed the absence of interactions between vitamin D3 and other ingredients. It was determined that the total amount of medication that penetrated the membrane was 95.34% ± 3. Percentage lysis was very negligible for all strengths which were found less than 15%. Based on our research, ethosomes appear to be safe for use. The vitamin D3 ethosomal gel order, description, pH, and viscosity were all within the specified ranges, according to the findings of a 6-month investigation into the stability profile of the completed system. In this research, we successfully prepared ethosomes loaded with vitamin D3 and then converted it into gel for patients’ easy applications.

Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Stigmasterol from Iraqi Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis L. (Asteraceae) plant origin from Mediterranean countries, and in addition to the beauty of its flowers they also have important medicinal properties in the healing of many illnesses particularly skin issues. C. officinalis in the world was reported and assessed as a medicinal plant, like British pharmacopoeia (BP), European pharmacopoeia (EU), WHO and PDR. Calendula officinalis Linn. Contains 0.4% of flavonoids as minimum, calculated as Hyperoside of dried herbal substance according to British pharmacopeia (2). The Chemical Constituents are: Triterpene saponins, Triterpene (Stigmasterol), Flavonoids: isorhamnetin glycosides and quercetin glycosides, Coumarins: umbelliferon, scopoletin and aesculetin, Carotenoids: mainly zeaxanthin and Lutein (5). Stigmasterol is an essential ingredient that has been isolated from plants. Stigmasterol considered a progesterone precursor and serves as an intermediate in corticoids, androgens estrogens biosynthesis (10) and vitamin D3 synthesis (3). Stigmasterol is a triterpenes C30-derive phytosterol, naturally happening C28 and C29 carbon steroid alcohols that is similar to cholesterol in structure as well as biological activity (4).in this study Stigmasterol was identified by TLC, Mass analysis. Structure elucidation was performed using, FTIR and Mass analysis. The quantity of Stigmasterol was measured in the Iraqi plant.

The Skin's Sun Story: Risks and Precautions

Background: The skin, representing the largest organ in the human body, serves numerous funtions crucial for homeostasis, as well as acts as the primary physical barrier protecting the organism from external environmental factors such as microorganisms, mechanical damage, heat or cold exposure, toxins, as well as solar radiation, posing various risks to the skin, including sunburn, photoageing and skin malignancies. Objectives: This study aims to explore the effects of solar radiation on the skin and to discuss preventive measures against its negative influence on the skin. Methods: An exhaustive search of references related to sun exposure and skin published in PubMed was undertaken, using the search terms: "solar exposure and skin, ultraviolet radiation and skin, visible light and skin, sunscreen, photoprotection”. Conclusions: Solar radiation, particularly ultraviolet radiation (UVR), induces acute and chronic damage to the skin, leading to conditions such as sunburn, photoaging, and skin malignancies. However, adequate exposure to sunlight is crucial for the synthesis of vitamin D3, which plays essential roles in calcium homeostasis, immune function, and potentially other physiological processes. Strategies such as proper sunscreen use and other photoprotection methods can mitigate the adverse effects of solar radiation while allowing for sufficient vitamin D synthesis.

An ultraviolet light data logger for studies of organismal ecology and physiology

Abstract Monitoring environmental conditions over time is essential for understanding how species regulate those conditions to satisfy their physiological needs. Variation in ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, for instance, is crucial for numerous taxa, influencing behaviour as well as essential physiological processes like vitamin D3 synthesis. Yet, despite these considerations, no commercially available data loggers exist to record UV exposures over time, preventing inquiry into this important but neglected fitness demand. To overcome this challenge, I designed the first UV data logger, custom built on the open‐source Arduino platform. This device logs UV exposures (in voltage or converted to UV index) and date‐time information for each UV reading, at user‐defined intervals. The integration of a low‐power timer into the assembly, and its weather‐resistant housing, enables long‐term use (at least several months). The cost of one device (including housing) is under £45/$55 USD. Calibration and performance tests reveal that this device is reliable under various weather conditions and produces accurate UV readings under both artificial lighting and sunlight. Both the device and its customised housing can be easily replicated and expanded upon (e.g. inclusion of additional sensors). Overall, this device represents a crucial first step in our ability to better characterise UV exposure patterns in habitats for physiological ecology studies. Exposure to UV light is adaptive for many types of organisms, both in the wild and in captivity (e.g. zoos and private hobbyists), and so I expect a broad array of scientific and public users alike to benefit from using this device.

Association of CYP27B1 gene polymorphisms with pulmonary tuberculosis and vitamin D levels

Background and ObjectivesGenetic factors are reported to be connected with tuberculosis (TB) infection. Studies have shown that genetic variations in genes involved in the vitamin D pathway influence the levels of vitamin D found in the bloodstream (serum). Cyp27b1 (1α-hydroxylase) is an enzyme that activates the synthesis of bioactive vitamin D3 by hydroxylation of 25(OH)D3.The in vitro studies reported rare gene variants of Cyp27b1 such as rs118204011 and rs118204012, associated with loss of Cyp27b1 function and lower serum vitamin D levels. Globally, a critical gap exists in understanding the link between these gene variants with TB and vitamin D levels. Hence, the study objective is to comprehend the association of Cyp27b1 rs118204009 (G/A), rs118204011 (C/T), and rs118204012 (A/G) with tuberculosis susceptibility/protection and to assess the influence of gene variants on vitamin D levels in both healthy controls (HCs) and those with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in South India. MethodsGenomic DNA extraction was performed by salting-out procedure and subsequently genotyped through polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Vitamin D level was measured by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). ResultsIn rs118204012 (A/G), a substantial association was found with PTB susceptibility in allele ‘A’ [Odds Ratio (OR): 1.52 (1.02–2.26); p = 0.044] and ‘AA’ genotype [OR: 1.69 (1.02–2.81); p = 0.040] through the dominant model. Allele ‘G’ [OR: 0.66 (0.44–0.98); p = 0.044) was found to be associated with protection against TB. Males were associated with increased susceptibility towards TB compared to females in the rs118204011 “CC” [OR: 3.94 (1.94–7.98); p = 0.002] and rs118204012 ‘AA’ [OR: 4.57 (2.13–9.79); p = 0.0001] genotypes. Vitamin D insufficiency (<30 ng/ml) was more prevalent in PTB patients (66.67 %) with the rs118201012 ‘AA’ genotype compared with healthy controls (57.14 %). This genotype was associated with disease susceptible odds ratio of 1.5. ConclusionCyp27b1 rs118204012 ‘AA’ genotype was found to have association with vitamin D insufficiency and TB susceptibility. In terms of gender, our findings suggest that male individuals are correlated with a higher TB risk. This suggest that the gene variants may be involved in the downstream processing of serum Vitamin D levels and its association with the disease.

Comparative Study of Healthy Older and Younger Adults Shows They Have the Same Skin Concentration of Vitamin D3 Precursor, 7-Dehydrocholesterol, and Similar Response to UVR.

Vitamin D3 synthesis in human skin is initiated by solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure of precursor 7-dehydrocholesterol (7DHC), but influence of age on the early stage of vitamin D3 metabolism is uncertain. We performed a prospective standardised study in healthy ambulant adults aged ≥65 and ≤40 years examining (1) if baseline skin 7DHC concentration differs between younger and older adults and (2) the impact of older age on serum vitamin D3 response to solar simulated UVR. Eleven younger (18-40 years) and 10 older (65-89 years) adults, phototype I-III, received low-dose UVR (95% UVA, 5% UVB, 1.3 SED) to ~35% of the body surface area. Biopsies were taken for 7DHC assay from unexposed skin, skin immediately and 24 h post-UVR, and blood sampled at baseline, 24 h and 7 d post-UVR for vitamin D3 assay. Samples were analysed by HPLC-MS/MS. Baseline skin 7DHC (mean ± SD) was 0.22 ± 0.07 and 0.25 ± 0.08 µg/mg in younger versus older adults (no significant difference). Baseline serum vitamin D3 concentration was 1.5 ± 1.5 and 1.5 ± 1.7 nmol/L in younger versus older adults, respectively, and showed a significant increase in both groups post-UVR (no significant differences between age groups). Thus, skin 7DHC concentration was not a limiting factor for vitamin D3 production in older relative to younger adults. This information assists public health guidance on sun exposure/vitamin D nutrition, with particular relevance to the growing populations of healthy ambulant adults ≥65 years.

TRANSDERMAL APPLICATION OF VITAMIN D AND ITS EFFECTS ON PSORIASIS

Psoriasis represents a disorder of skin hypoproliferation, where vitamin D is frequently utilized in its treatment. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation stimulates the synthesis of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) in the epidermis. This compound undergoes further conversion into active metabolites, specifically 25-hydroxycholecalciferol and 1,25-hydroxycholecalciferol, which play crucial roles in skin health. However, in conditions like psoriasis, disruptions in skin functioning impede the cutaneous production of vitamin D, initiating a detrimental cycle. This disruption leads to a gradual reduction in vitamin D levels throughout the body, consequently destabilizing skin homeostasis. Topical application of vitamin D enables a substantial reduction in psoriasis on target areas of the body such as the scalp, joints, hands and lumbar region. The research records reductions of 100%, 80%, and 50% in the mentioned regions.

UV index-based model for predicting synthesis of (pre-)vitamin D3 in the mediterranean basin

The importance of solar radiation for the body’s ability to synthesize Vitamin D3 is well documented, yet the precise amount of sun exposure required to avoid Vitamin D insufficiency is less clear. To address this knowledge gap, this study sought to utilize the sun in a suitable period at the optimum dose by utilizing numerical simulations to determine the amount of Vitamin D3 synthesis in the skin according to season, time of day, and geographical location in Turkey. The study was carried out in three stages; in the first stage, daily, monthly, and annual values were determined in cases where the solar zenith angle has the active UV-B wavelength. The second stage determined the level of Vitamin D that can be synthesized in all skin types at 25% solar radiation exposure. In the third stage, the sun exposure time required for 1000 International Units (IU) for all skin types was calculated. According to the analysis, the yearly period of active synthesis of D3 on Earth lasts from the beginning of March to the third week of October. During the day, it is between 10:00 and 16:00. For 1000 IU/day, the average annual estimated times (minutes) are 5.05 for Type I, 6.3 for Type II, 7.6 for Type III, 11.35 for Type IV, 15.15 for Type V, and 25.25 for Type VI. The results of this paper will impact awareness for academic-medical users.

Investigating the Optimal Duration of the Sun Exposure for Adequate Cutaneous Synthesis of Vitamin D3 in Baghdad City: Depending on Fitzpatrick Skin Classification for Different Skin Types

Vitamin D3 deficiency is regarded as a public health issue in Iraq, particularly during the winter. Sun exposure is the main source of vitamin D3, where the surface ultraviolet (UV) radiation plays an important role in human health. The amount of time that must be spent in the sun each day was determined for the amount of exposed skin, for all skin types, with and without sunscreen under clear sky conditions in the city of Baghdad (Long 44.375, Lat 33.375). UV index data was obtained by TEMIS satellite during the year 2021. From data analysis, we found that most days during the year were within the high level of ultraviolet radiation values ​​in the city of Baghdad, and most of them were during the summer, where the person needed less time of exposure to sunlight to obtain vitamin D3 in the case of exposing the face and hands or the whole body. As a result, it can be concluded that the amount of UV radiation is affected by several factors: depending on latitude, day of the year, time of day and the season, body area exposed to the radiation, and use of sun protection factor. These factors influence the time of sun exposure required to initiate cutaneous vitamin D3 synthesis.

Why D3 Is Most Selling Vitamin?

Purpose: This whitepaper examines the chemical composition, synthesis, and sources of Vitamin D3, emphasizing the importance of optimal levels for overall well-being. It explores the role of Vitamin D3 in various physiological processes beyond bone health, including immune system support, anti-inflammatory effects, cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, mental well-being, autoimmune disease management, muscle function, weight management, hormone regulation, dental health, and skin health.&#x0D; Methodology: The document provides a comprehensive overview of natural and dietary sources of Vitamin D3, including supplements. It outlines the synthesis process in the human body, emphasizing the role of magnesium and key enzymes. Popular Vitamin D3 supplements in the U.S. market are also presented.&#x0D; Findings: Vitamin D3, recognized as the "sunshine vitamin," offers diverse health benefits across multiple systems in the human body. Its popularity stems from advantages beyond bone health, contributing to immune system modulation, anti-inflammatory effects, cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, mental health, autoimmune disease management, muscle function, weight management, hormone regulation, dental health, and skin health.&#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: The paper contributes a comprehensive understanding of vitamin D3's multifaceted benefits, stressing the need for dietary intake and supplementation. It suggests potential implications for public health strategies, especially in regions with limited sunlight exposure.

Vitamin D3 Receptors and Metabolic Enzymes in Hen Reproductive Tissues

In recent years, vitamin D3 has been revealed as an important regulator of reproductive processes in humans and livestock; however, its role in the female reproductive system of poultry is poorly known. The aim of this study was to examine vitamin D3 receptor (VDR and PDIA3) and metabolic enzyme (1α-hydroxylase and 24-hydroxylase) mRNA transcript and protein abundances, and protein localization within the hen ovary, oviductal shell gland, pituitary, liver, and kidney. We demonstrated, for the first time, the patterns of the relative mRNA and protein abundances of examined molecules in the ovary, dependent on follicle development and the layer of follicle wall, as well as in other examined organs. Immunohistochemically, PDIA3, 1α-hydroxylase, and 24-hydroxylase are localized in follicular theca and granulosa layers, luminal epithelium and tubular glands of the shell gland, pituitary, liver, and kidney. These results indicate that reproductive tissues have both receptors, VDR, primarily involved in genomic action, and PDIA3, probably participating in the rapid, non-genomic effect of vitamin D3. The finding of 1α-hydroxylase and 24-hydroxylase expression indicates that the reproductive system of chickens has the potential for vitamin D3 synthesis and inactivation, and may suggest that locally produced vitamin D3 can be considered as a significant factor in the orchestration of ovarian and shell gland function in hens. These results provide a new insight into the potential mechanisms of vitamin D3 action and metabolism in the chicken ovary and oviduct.

Exposure to Multiple Air Pollutants and the Risk of Fractures: A Large Prospective Population-Based Study.

Atmospheric chemistry studies suggest air pollution impedes ultraviolet B photons and thus reduces cutaneous vitamin D3 synthesis. Biological evidence shows that inhaled pollutants disrupt circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) metabolism and ultimately impact bone health. The hypothesis is that higher air pollution concentrations are associated with a higher risk of fractures, mediated by lower circulating 25(OH)D. The study included participants of the UK Biobank who were free of fracture history at enrollment (2006 to 2010) and analyzed their environmental exposure data (2007 to 2010). Air pollution measurements included the annual averages of air particulate matter (PM2.5 , PM2.5-10 , and PM10 ), nitrogen oxides (NO2 and NOx ), and a composite air pollution score. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the associations of the individual pollutants and the score with fracture risks. Mediation analyses were conducted to assess the underlying role of serum 25(OH)D in such associations. Among 446,395 participants with a median of 8-year follow-up, 12,288 incident fractures were documented. Participants living in places with the highest quintile of air pollution score had a 15.3% increased risk of fractures (hazard ratio [95%CI]: 1.15[1.09,1.22]) compared to those in the lowest, and 5.49% of this association was mediated through serum 25(OH)D (pmediation < 0.05). Pollutant-specific hazard of top-to-bottom quintiles was 16% for PM2.5 , 4% for PM2.5-10 , 5% for PM10 , 20% for NO2 , and 17% for NOx , with a 4% to 6% mediation effect of serum 25(OH)D concentrations. The associations of the air pollution score with fracture risks were weaker among female participants, those who drank less alcohol, and consumed more fresh fruit than their counterparts (pinteraction < 0.05). © 2023 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

UVB-emitting LEDs for reptile lighting: Identifying the risks of nonsolar UV spectra.

UVB lamps are used to provide reptiles housed indoors with the UV radiation necessary to synthesize vitamin D3 in their skin. Since 2019, UVB-LED lamps have been on sale for use in reptile husbandry. We performed spectral analysis and mapped the UV irradiance for 18 of these lamps. The positive benefits of UVB-LED lamps over traditional products include greater energy efficiency, freedom from mercury and easy installation without external ballasts. However, the spectra of all the UVB-LED lamps tested had little similarity to the solar UV spectrum. Some lamps emitted short-wavelength, non-terrestrial, radiation known to cause acute photo-kerato-conjunctivitis; we report one case. All lamps were lacking significant output in the range 315-335 nm, essential for natural self-regulation of cutaneous vitamin D3 synthesis, preventing overproduction. We describe a possible risk of serious hypervitaminosis D based on our spectral analysis. We call for long-term animal studies to assess this risk, in which the reptiles under these lamps are exposed to species-appropriate UV index levels according to their Ferguson Zone allocation and serum levels of vitamin D3 and 25(OH)D3 monitored. Spectral modifications of the lamps to make the spectrum more like sunlight may be an essential way of mitigating this risk.

Effect of dietary vitamin D3 and ultraviolet-B light on the behaviour and growth of broilers challenged with social isolation stress

Within intensive poultry production systems, broilers are reared indoors, at fast growth rates in controlled environments with little access to natural light, which together impacts the expression of natural behaviours. Birds can see into the ultraviolet spectrum and the provision of ultraviolet-B (UVB) light may support the expression of natural behaviour and endogenous synthesis of vitamin D3 (vitD3). Commercially, chickens regularly encounter stressors, and both the environment and diet can influence their response to stressors. This study was designed to compare the impacts of providing dietary vitD3 at 4000 IU/kg (VitD) compared with provision via UVB light on the behaviour of broilers challenged with periodic social isolation stress. One-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks (n = 192) were randomly allocated to non-isolated (control) and periodically isolated groups and were provided with either, additional dietary vitD3, or UVB light, in a 2 × 2 factorial design. UVB lamps were provided in all pens (12% UVB D3 of 55 cm length, 24-Watt, 280–315 nm wavelength and 28.12 µW/cm2 intensity) but in the VitD treatment, there were filters to remove UVB. Behaviour was recorded from video footage using instantaneous scans measuring the number of birds engaged in each behaviour six times per day on 12 days spread across days 2–39, resulting in 72 scan samples per pen. Body weight was measured weekly and analysed to provide context for understanding the activity of broilers. Body weight was modelled using growth curves and poisson models were used to analyse behaviour, controlling for the number of birds visible in scans. Chickens performed less active behaviour when they had been periodically isolated. Chickens spent more time sitting inactive (and less sitting active) and sleeping when they received UVB light but were not isolated. Sunbathing was lower in isolation treatments compared to controls, but this effect was reduced when they received UVB lighting. The growth rate of chickens was highest in the isolation and VitD treatment and higher for VitD compared to UVB treatments. Higher activity on days 2 and 39 was associated with a lower growth rate. These results indicate some benefits of supplementation of UVB light in terms of observing natural behaviour when chickens are exposed to stressors. However, we did not observe large differences in behaviour in chickens receiving UVB light compared to those provided with VitD. Further research is needed to investigate the benefits and optimal level of UVB light to support the behaviour and welfare of broilers.

In silico Analysis of 7-Dehydrocholesterol Reductase Gene (Sl7-DR2) in Tomato: Linking Cholesterol Metabolism to Vitamin D Pathway

Tomatoes are the most popular vegetable crop worldwide and contain many health-promoting compounds. Most foods contain very little amount of vitamin D, and plants are very poor sources in the production of vitamin D. The 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase gene (Sl7-DR2) is responsible for the accumulation of 7-dehydrocholesterol, which is a precursor for vitamin D3 synthesis. This gene is present in different plant species and plays a role in cholesterol metabolism as well as it links with the vitamin D pathway by inhibiting its actual function in the synthesis of cholesterol. In this study, sequencing analysis of the gene using multiple sequence alignment provided information about its similarity and their conserved sequence regions in different plant species. Using MEGA11 software, the phylogenetic analysis of this gene was done and it showed that, this gene present in chromosome 6 and chromosome 1 of Solanum lycopersicum has a close resemblance with Solanum tuberosum and Datura stramonium respectively. The physiochemical characteristics of Sl7-DR2 were analyzed by using the Expasy protparam tool. Functional annotation and secondary structure analysis of Sl7-DR2 were done using the Pfam, STRING, and SOPMA databases. The results obtained from this analysis showed that the protein was stable and has a low GRAVY Index indicating its higher affinity to water and the secondary structure analysis predicts the robust nature of this protein and the STRING analysis gave information related to proteins that are involved in the sterol pathway and their functions. These tools characterized the protein function of the Sl7-DR2 gene and studied the role of 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase in converting 7-dehydrocholesterol to vitamin D3 and its role in cholesterol metabolism. The pathway analysis using the Reactome database helps in characterizing the network between the cholesterol and vitamin D pathway. The 3D structure of the Sl7-DR2 protein was predicted using an ab initio approach, Robetta, and the predicted structure was validated using the SAVESv6.0 (PROCHECK) server. The predicted model has 90.8% of total residues present in the most favoured regions and showed high readability and quality. These analyses demonstrated the significance of this gene in the vitamin D pathway and its potential for human health in preventing various diseases.

Why vitamin D is important and how to access the important resources?

Background: Vitamin D was important for health. It regulated calcium and phosphate absorption, strengthens bones; muscles, and improved the body’s immunity. There were multiple resources for it, but its deficiency led to various health problems. Aim: The study aimed to review literature to understand the nature and optimal time for exposure to sunrays for gaining vitamin D. Method: The searcher conducted the literature through health organizations such as Up-To-Date, Medline, Pro-Quest–Medline Index, Clinical Key, CDC, WHO, Google Scholar, and PubMed. Result: Vitamin D had various benefits for vital body function as well as its reduction led to serious problems, so the recommended daily oral dose was 600 IU which increased among the population with vitamin D deficiency. Exposed of the face, arms, legs, or back to sun rays for an average of 15 minutes between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. two to three times per week was enough for cholecalciferol production. Conclusion: Vitamin D was important for the body function. The skin had the ability to synthesize vitamin D3 when exposed to sunlight during the day, especially in the summer; the peak time was 11:00 am to 2 pm.

KNOWLEDGE, AWARENESS AND BEHAVIOUR TOWARD SUN EXPOSURE AMONG PHARMACY STUDENTS

Background: Sunlight exposure has several health advantages, including sulphated vitamin D3 synthesis, enhanced cognitive function, supporting bone health, decreasing blood pressure, avoiding illness, and fostering positive mental health. Nevertheless, there are still taboo that relates sun exposure and skin cancer and this phenomenon makes people prefer staying indoor most of the time. Many international studies have been conducted to assess the public perceptions towards sun exposure. To date, there is scarce data on this topic among students in Malaysia. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness and behaviours towards sun exposure among the Diploma in Pharmacy students of Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). Methods: An online cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2022 among the Diploma of Pharmacy students in UiTM Cawangan Pulau Pinang. A self-administered questionnaire was constructed in Google Forms consisting of multiple-choice closed-ended questions. Descriptive analysis were used to summarise the sociodemographic profile of the respondents while Chi-square test was used to explore the association between sociodemographic variables and adequacy of knowledge, awareness and behaviour. Result: A total of 176 students with a 100% response rate participated in the study. Majority of the students had high knowledge on the benefits of sun exposure and high awareness on harmful effects of lacking sun exposure. They also showed slightly positive behaviour towards sun exposure. Conclusion: Education and awareness regarding the effects of sun exposure on human health, particularly among students, has to be more progressive. With good instruction and understanding from everyone, we could inform the public about the benefits of sun exposure and encourage them to practise it safely.

Effect of Serum Vitamin D Content on the Clinical Course of Psoriasis

Objectives: To evaluate the incidence of serum vitamin D insufficiency in patients with psoriasis and study the relationship between dietary intake of vitamin D and clinical characteristics. Materials and Methods: Totally eighty individuals were enrolled and were equally divided into two groups (40 patients in each group): Group A consisted of psoriasis patients, whereas Group B consisted of controls. By using the PASI scale, psoriasis plaques were identified and assessed. The predesign questionnaire was developed and was given to each participant to complete it. Age, gender, the length of the psoriasis, concurrent illnesses, and medications were among the collected data. A dermatologist examined all of the patients and gathered information about their demographics, health, and any other pertinent information. Blood samples were taken to measure the level of serum vitamin D using the immuno-enzyme method. All measurements were conducted during winter months to avoid the influence of sun exposure on synthesis of vitamin D3 and its derivative 25-hydroxycholecalciferol. SPSS (v 25.0) was used for analysis and the results were shown in the form of graph and table. Results: Statistically significant difference was found in 25(OH) D3 levels between psoriasis affected individuals and healthy individuals. Both groups have low level of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol. In our results there is negative correlation between 25(OH) D3 and PASI. There is also a negative correlation between 25(OH) D3 and duration of psoriasis. Practical implication: This study will help the clinical practitioner to advise the patients with psoriasis to use enough amounts of vitamin D3 that will help to normalize the vitamin D level in patients. It is believed that psoriasis can cause a progressive decrease in the level of vitamin D3 derivatives in the whole human body, including the skin. So vitamin D rich food must be eaten in high amount. Conclusion: It is found in this study that both the groups have low serum vitamin D3 level. Both the general public and persons with psoriasis should eat enough amounts of vitamin D3. Keywords: PASI, vitamin D3, Psoriasis, serum, antiproliferative,

Minimal effects of ultraviolet light supplementation on egg production, egg and bone quality, and health during early lay of laying hens.

Chicken vision is sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light containing the UVA spectrum, while UVB plays a key role in the endogenous production of vitamin D3. However, commercially available light sources are typically deficient in the UV spectrum and thus may not adequately fulfill the lighting requirements of indoor-housed laying hens. We hypothesized that supplementary UVB light may improve egg production and egg quality, and bone health during early lay relative to UVA supplementation or standard control lighting. To investigate the effects of UV light supplementation, an experiment was conducted on 252 ISA Brown hens during 16 to 27 weeks of age. Birds were housed in eighteen pens (14 hens/pen) under three different light treatment groups each with six replications: (i) UVO: standard control lighting with LED white light, (ii) UVA: control lighting plus supplemental daylight with an avian bulb, and (iii) UVA/B: control lighting plus a supplemental full spectrum reptile bulb containing both UVA and UVB wavelengths. Hen-day egg production and egg quality, blood parameters including plasma Ca and P, and serum 25(OH)D3, and hen body weight and external health scoring were measured at different age points; while bone quality was assessed at the end of the experiment at 27 weeks. Data were analyzed in JMP® 16.0 using general linear mixed models with α level set at 0.05. Results showed that UVA and UVA/B supplemented birds reached sexual maturity (50% production) 3 and 1 day earlier, respectively, than control birds. There was a trend for UV lights to increase hen-day egg production (P=0.06). Among egg quality traits, only eggshell reflectivity and yolk index were affected by UV lights (P=0.02 and 0.01, respectively); however, most of the egg quality traits changed over age (all P<0.01). Post-hoc tests showed higher serum 25(OH)D3 in the UVA/B group relative to control hens (P<0.05); but there was no treatment effect on plasma Ca and P or on bone quality parameters (all P>0.05). A significant interaction was observed between light treatment and age for the number of comb wounds (P=0.0004), with the UV supplemented hens showing more comb wounds after 24 weeks. These results demonstrated that supplemental UVA/B light had minimal effects on egg production and egg quality, whereas, UVA/B exposure may increase vitamin D3 synthesis during the early laying period. The optimum duration of exposure and level of intensity needs to be determined to ensure these benefits.