Vitamin D and its effects on cardiovascular diseases: a comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Endocrinology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Vitamin D is primarily recognized for its role in calcium metabolism.
• Emerging evidence highlights vitamin D's significant involvement in cardiovascular pathophysiology.
• Vitamin D influences key systems including the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and immune responses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review vitamin D metabolic pathways in relation to cardiovascular diseases.
• To synthesize findings from animal and human studies on vitamin D and cardiovascular health.
• To address controversies and discuss implications for molecular biology and public health.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies on vitamin D and cardiovascular pathophysiology.
• Inclusion of research utilizing both animal and human models.
• Analysis of existing data regarding vitamin D's systemic effects.

Main Results:

• Vitamin D impacts blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation.
• Evidence links vitamin D to the regulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
• The vitamin's role in immune system modulation relevant to cardiovascular health is presented.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin D is a key player in cardiovascular health, affecting multiple pathways.
• Further research is needed to clarify vitamin D's precise role and therapeutic potential in cardiovascular disease.
• Understanding vitamin D's cardiovascular implications is vital for public health strategies.