Comprehensive Review on Diabetes Associated Cardiovascular Complications - The Vitamin D Perspective

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Syndrome
• Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

• Vitamin D is crucial for calcium and bone health.
• Vitamin D receptors (VDRs) are present in many cell types, suggesting broader roles.
• Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is a global concern, coinciding with rising rates of diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of vitamin D in glucose homeostasis.
• To examine the relationship between vitamin D and insulin resistance, blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and endothelial dysfunction.
• To explore potential mechanisms linking vitamin D to CVDs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of randomized clinical trials and meta-analyses.
• Summary of evidence on vitamin D's effects on metabolic and cardiovascular parameters.
• Exploration of proposed biological mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Conflicting results exist in clinical trials regarding vitamin D's impact.
• Vitamin D status may influence glycemic control, insulin resistance, and CVD risk factors.
• Potential mechanisms involve regulation of insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, lipid profiles, and endothelial function.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin D plays a significant role beyond skeletal health, impacting metabolic and cardiovascular systems.
• Further research is needed to clarify the therapeutic potential of vitamin D supplementation in managing insulin resistance and CVDs.
• Understanding the extraskeletal effects of vitamin D is crucial for public health.