Vitamin D3 and Ischemic Stroke: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally.
• Current treatments like anticoagulants and thrombectomy have limitations.
• Many neuroprotective drugs have failed in clinical trials, suggesting a need for multitarget approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biochemical mechanisms of ischemic stroke.
• To explore the neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative effects of vitamin D3.
• To evaluate the potential of vitamin D3 as an adjunct therapy for stroke and its consequences.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing research.
• Analysis of biochemical mechanisms of stroke-induced brain damage.
• Examination of in vitro and in vivo studies on vitamin D3's neuroprotective effects.
• Brief review of clinical trial outcomes for vitamin D3 in stroke patients.

Main Results:

• Vitamin D3 exhibits neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, regenerative, and anti-aging properties.
• It influences prosurvival pathways and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling.
• Experimental studies show potential neuroprotection in brain ischemia models.
• Clinical trials present mixed results but suggest promise.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin D3 may offer a multitarget approach for stroke prevention and treatment.
• It holds promise for ameliorating neurological and psychiatric consequences of ischemic stroke.
• Further clinical studies are warranted to confirm vitamin D3's efficacy.