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Vitamin D: more than a "bone-a-fide" hormone
Amelia L M Sutton1, Paul N MacDonald
1Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
Molecular Endocrinology (Baltimore, Md.)
|March 15, 2003
Summary
The vitamin D endocrine system impacts bone health and beyond. New research reveals its role in hair growth, blood pressure, and mammary development, with insights from receptor structure and gene studies.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- The vitamin D endocrine system is essential for mineral homeostasis and skeletal integrity.
- Emerging research highlights roles in hair follicle cycling, blood pressure, and mammary gland development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advancements in understanding the vitamin D endocrine system.
- To focus on vitamin D receptor structure, gene transcription, knockout models, and alternative receptors/ligands.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of vitamin D receptor crystal structure.
- Investigation of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-mediated gene transcription.
- Examination of murine knockout models for key endocrine system genes.
- Exploration of alternative vitamin D receptors and ligands.
Main Results:
- Detailed insights into the vitamin D receptor's structure.
- Elucidation of molecular mechanisms in vitamin D-mediated transcription.
- Understanding of physiological roles through gene-deficient models.
- Identification of novel vitamin D pathways and interactions.
Conclusions:
- The vitamin D endocrine system has complex, multifaceted roles beyond skeletal health.
- Ongoing research continues to expand our knowledge of vitamin D's physiological significance.
- Further investigation into alternative receptors and ligands may reveal new therapeutic targets.