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Detection of Neuritic Plaques in Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Model
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VITAMIN D IN ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE - PROPHYLAXIS OR THERAPY?
Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica
|April 11, 2018
Summary
Vitamin D may protect the brain and reduce Alzheimer
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience and Endocrinology
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Background:
- Vitamin D receptor is present in most human tissues, including the central nervous system (CNS).
- Vitamin D exhibits neuroprotective properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, influences neurotrophic factors, GABAergic signaling, and catecholamine biosynthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential role of vitamin D in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis and prevention.
- To investigate the relationship between vitamin D levels and AD risk.
- To examine vitamin D's impact on amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptide metabolism and neuroinflammation.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on vitamin D's mechanisms of action and AD pathomechanisms.
- Analysis of studies correlating serum calcidiol levels with dementia risk.
- Examination of animal studies on vitamin D supplementation and AD markers.
Main Results:
- Systemic vitamin D insufficiency is a potential risk factor for AD.
- Inverse relationship observed between calcidiol levels and risk of dementia, including AD.
- Vitamin D may inhibit Aβ peptide formation and reduce neuroinflammation.
Conclusions:
- Vitamin D deficiency may increase AD risk.
- Vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) may serve as a potential AD biomarker.
- Vitamin D supplementation could be beneficial for AD prophylaxis, particularly in the elderly.
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