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Published on: December 9, 2015
Autophagy efficacy and vitamin D status: Population effects
Abhimanyu1, Vanessa Meyer1, Brandon R Jones1
1Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Kingsway Campus, PO Box 524, Auckland Park 2006, Gauteng, South Africa.
Vitamin D receptor (VDR) signaling influences autophagy differently across populations. Supplementation with 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) can enhance autophagy, particularly in vitamin D deficient individuals.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2/1 signaling is linked to autophagy via the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3)-vitamin D receptor (VDR) complex.
- Previous studies suggest population-specific effects in TLR2/1-VDR signaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate population-specific effects of TLR2/1-VDR signaling on autophagy.
- To determine the influence of vitamin D status on these population effects.
Main Methods:
- Quantified serum 25(OH)D3 in healthy Black and White South Africans using LC-MS/MS.
- Supplemented primary monocytes-macrophages in vitro with 1,25(OH)2D3 and stimulated with Pam3CSK4.
- Quantified mRNA levels of TLR2, VDR, hCAP18, Beclin1, LC3-IIB, cytokines, and CYP24A1 via flow cytometry and RT-qPCR.
Main Results:
- Black individuals exhibited lower cumulative LC3-IIB but higher Beclin1, VDR, IL6, and TNFA mRNA compared to White individuals.
- 1,25(OH)2D3 enhanced autophagic flux in monocytes-macrophages from Black individuals upon TLR2/1 stimulation.
- Autophagy was strengthened in vitamin D deficient individuals following 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment.
Conclusions:
- Population-specific differences in autophagy exist and are influenced by vitamin D status.
- Findings support the potential for population-directed vitamin D supplementation strategies.
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