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The Quantification of Vitamin D in Humans: A Promising, Non-Invasive and Cost-Effective Method to Measure
Giulia Squillacioti1, Samar El Sherbiny1, Veronica Lettico1
1Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 bis, 10126 Turin, Italy.
Background:
Vitamin D intake and synthesis are essential. Vitamin D deficiency is increasing across all age groups, raising concerns regarding public health. Serum 25(OH)D is measured to define vitamin D deficiency. However, its quantification in non-invasively collected biological matrices is still poorly studied. This study aimed to assess 25(OH)D levels in unconventional matrices using cost-effective analytical methods.
Methods:
Serum, urine, and saliva were collected from 62 healthy, non-smoking volunteers, 25-44 years of age. Biological samples were analysed using the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The serum was additionally analysed via the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA), which was used as a benchmark.
Results:
We observed a linear correlation (Pearson r = 0.44; p = 0.05) between the benchmark and ELISA-measured 25(OH)D urinary levels. After stratification by sex, the correlation was stronger and significant only in females (Pearson r = 0.62; p = 0.04). Salivary 25(OH)D levels did not correlate with serum levels for both ELISA and CMIA measures. Subjects with a CMIA serum-based deficiency showed lower urinary 25(OH)D levels (p = 0.04).
Conclusion:
Our study opens up the possibility of using urinary 25(OH)D levels as a proxy measurement of vitamin D. Such an approach may allow future investigations on the association between environmental factors and vitamin D assessed in non-invasively collected biological matrices via cost-effective analytical methods.
