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Updated: May 25, 2026

Isolation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Human Alveolar Periosteum and Effects of Vitamin D on Osteogenic Activity of Periosteum-derived Cells
Published on: May 4, 2018
Antimicrobial implications of vitamin D
Dima A Youssef1, Christopher Wt Miller, Adel M El-Abbassi
1Mountain Home VAMC Medicine Service; Mountain Home; TN USA.
Vitamin D possesses antimicrobial properties, boosting innate immunity and potentially reducing infection risk. It offers an inexpensive prophylactic and therapeutic option for various infections, complementing traditional antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Vitamin D deficiency is linked to poor health and longevity.
- Vitamin D plays a role in modulating immune responses.
- Emerging evidence suggests antimicrobial properties of Vitamin D.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the antimicrobial properties of Vitamin D.
- To explore mechanisms of Vitamin D's antimicrobial activity.
- To discuss its therapeutic potential in infections and dermatological conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Vitamin D and antimicrobial activity.
- Analysis of Vitamin D's effects on innate and adaptive immunity.
- Examination of Vitamin D's role in managing skin conditions and infections.
Main Results:
- Vitamin D enhances innate immunity by modulating antimicrobial peptides and cytokines.
- It boosts B and T cell activation, and monocyte/macrophage activity.
- Vitamin D may reduce infection susceptibility in conditions like atopic dermatitis.
Conclusions:
- Vitamin D exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
- It presents a cost-effective prophylactic and therapeutic agent, alone or with antibiotics.
- Further research into Vitamin D's role in infection management is warranted.
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