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Vitamin D in rheumatoid arthritis
Maurizio Cutolo1, Kati Otsa2, Maria Uprus2
1Research Laboratory and Academic Clinical Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 6 - 16132 Genova, Italy.
Autoimmunity Reviews
|October 31, 2007
Summary
Vitamin D may regulate the immune system, particularly by reducing autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Lower vitamin D levels are linked to increased RA activity, suggesting a potential therapeutic role.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is present in immune cells, and vitamin D hormone production by dendritic cells suggests immunoregulatory roles.
- VDR is found in mononuclear cells, dendritic cells, antigen-presenting cells, and activated T and B lymphocytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the immunoregulatory properties of vitamin D.
- To investigate the link between vitamin D levels and autoimmune diseases, specifically rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Main Methods:
- Identification of VDR in various immune cell types.
- Correlation analysis of serum 25(OH)D3 levels with RA disease activity.
- Review of factors influencing vitamin D levels and their relation to autoimmune disease prevalence.
Main Results:
- Vitamin D appears to downregulate Th1-driven autoimmunity.
- Low serum vitamin D3 levels may contribute to the prevalence of autoimmune diseases like RA.
- Serum 25(OH)D3 levels show an inverse correlation with RA disease activity and a circannual rhythm.
- Increased vitamin D intake is associated with a lower risk of RA and clinical improvement in patients.
Conclusions:
- Vitamin D possesses significant immunomodulating and immunosuppressive potential.
- Vitamin D deficiency may play a role in the pathogenesis and activity of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Further research into vitamin D's role in autoimmune diseases is warranted.
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