[Rickets/Osteomalacia. The function and mechanism of vitamin D action.]

The antirickets factor vitamin D exhibits its action through activation of vitamin D receptor(VDR). The active form of vitamin D, 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3[1,25(OH)2D3], is a potent VDR ligand, and contributes to the maintenance of calcium homeostasis by enhancing intestinal calcium absorption, renal calcium reabsorption and bone resorption. 1,25(OH)2D3 also regulates bone formation, phosphorus metabolism and vitamin D metabolism. Experimental and epidemiological evidence has shown vitamin D actions on cellular proliferation and differentiation, immunity and inflammation, and cardiovascular function. Vitamin D derivatives and VDR ligands may be useful for the treatment of osteoporosis, malignancy, autoimmune and inflammatory disease and cardiovascular disease as well as rickets and osteomalacia.