Vitamin D as therapeutic modulator in cerebrovascular diseases: a mechanistic perspectives

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology and Metabolism
• Cardiovascular Science
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Vitamin D deficiency is associated with major chronic diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders.
• Deficiency particularly impacts cardiovascular health, leading to endothelial dysfunction and vascular abnormalities.
• These effects are linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and aging processes.

Approach:

• This review examines therapeutic strategies targeting vitamin D inadequacy and its downstream effects.
• Focuses on how vitamin D modulates molecular pathways crucial in cerebrovascular health.
• Analyzes vitamin D's role in mitigating impaired autophagy and inflammatory/oxidant reactions.

Key Points:

• Vitamin D influences critical molecular pathways such as Nitric Oxide, PI3K-Akt, cAMP, NF-kB, Sirtuin 1, Nrf2, and FOXO.
• Evidence suggests vitamin D can slow the progression of cerebrovascular disorders.
• Therapeutic approaches targeting vitamin D may reduce the severity of stroke and neurologic malformations.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin D plays a significant role in preventing and managing cerebrovascular disorders.
• Addressing vitamin D deficiency offers a potential strategy to combat stroke and related neurological conditions.
• Further research into vitamin D's therapeutic applications is warranted for global health improvement.