Vitamin D metabolism and activity in the parathyroid gland

Parathormone (PTH) and vitamin D are two critical hormonal regulators of calcium homeostasis. An important cross-talk exists between the PTH and vitamin D hormonal systems. PTH enhances vitamin D hydroxylation on carbon 1 in kidney cells thereby allowing the systemic release of 1-25-dihydroxy-vitamin D, which represents the fully active hormone. Conversely, parathyroid gland represents a direct target for vitamin D. Parathyroid cells express the vitamin D receptor and the 1-α-hydroxylase enzyme, which allows the local formation of 1-25-dihydroxy-vitamin D. Because of its potential implication in several diseases, including osteoporosis or chronic kidney disease, the interplay between PTH and vitamin D has received considerable attention these last two decades. The aim of this review is to summarize our current understanding of the molecular basis of vitamin D action and metabolism in parathyroid cells. The potential clinical implications of the recent advances made in this field will also be discussed.