Vitamin D supplementation: Biochemical and inflammatory effects in non-pathological Wistar rats

Vitamin D₃ (VD₃) is shown to be a biochemical and physiological modulator of the body. Debates about route of administration, prescribed dosage and serum levels have arisen, and thus the interaction of VD₃ with the body in overdose. Using an experimental model of Wistar rats of both sexes, rats were subdivided into 5 groups, which represents a control group, and 4 groups with VD₃ treatments (2.500, 7.000, 14.000 and 21.000 IU/kg/week) for one month. Thereafter biochemical, hormonal, inflammatory and histological analyses were performed. Regarding the biochemical findings, there was an increase in the levels of the AST in comparison of the control group with the treatments with higher doses (14.000 IU and 21.000 IU). Furthermore, changes in the inflammatory cytokine profile were identified at doses of 14,000 IU and 21,000 IU, with an increase in inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α) and a decrease in the anti-inflammatory IL-10. Histological evaluation of the liver tissue also revealed changes at the highest doses. Finally, in the evaluation of a murine physiological model, it showed that the supplementation of VD₃ in overdoses there was an inflammatory exacerbation in the body, suggesting that the VD₃ supplementation should be administered with caution, and takes into account physiological factors of the individual.