Vitamin D-binding protein and multiple sclerosis: Evidence, controversies, and needs

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Endocrinology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Vitamin D-binding protein (DBP) is the primary plasma carrier of vitamin D metabolites, influencing their stability and bioavailability.
• DBP possesses additional roles in actin scavenging and immunomodulation, potentially affecting multiple sclerosis (MS) pathophysiology.
• MS biomarkers are sought in accessible body fluids like blood and cerebrospinal fluid, where DBP is measurable.

Purpose of the Study:

• To consolidate current research on DBP in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
• To identify limitations and controversies in existing DBP studies related to MS.
• To outline critical areas for future research on DBP's role in MS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating DBP expression and function in MS.
• Analysis of data from blood and cerebrospinal fluid studies.
• Synthesis of evidence regarding DBP's immunomodulatory and metabolic roles in MS.

Main Results:

• Existing data on DBP in MS are fragmented and sometimes contradictory.
• DBP's multifaceted functions suggest a potential, yet unconfirmed, role in MS.
• Further research is needed to clarify DBP's precise involvement in MS.

Conclusions:

• DBP's complex functions warrant deeper investigation into its role in multiple sclerosis.
• Standardization of DBP measurement and functional studies is essential for MS research.
• Clarifying DBP's contribution to MS pathophysiology could reveal novel therapeutic targets.