Relationship between vitamin D and IgE: a cross-sectional analysis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
• Nutritional Immunology
• Biomarkers of Allergic Disease

Background:

• Vitamin D possesses immunomodulatory properties that may impact allergic conditions.
• Total immunoglobulin E (IgE) serves as a biomarker for allergic sensitization.
• Previous research on the relationship between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and IgE has yielded inconsistent results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and total IgE in a large pediatric cohort.
• To clarify the relationship between vitamin D status and allergic sensitization markers.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from 9,126 children (aged 1-18 years).
• Measurement of serum 25(OH)D and total IgE using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay.
• Statistical analyses including correlation, multivariable regression, restricted cubic spline (RCS), and stratification by age, sex, and season.

Main Results:

• An inverse correlation was observed between serum 25(OH)D and IgE (r=-0.1443, P<0.0001), stronger in allergic children.
• Serum 25(OH)D was an independent negative predictor of IgE (β=-0.0081, P<0.0001).
• A non-linear association was found, with higher IgE at lower 25(OH)D levels. The association was most pronounced in younger children (≤6 years) and during winter.

Conclusions:

• Serum 25(OH)D is inversely associated with IgE in children, with variations based on age and season.
• The findings suggest a population-level link between vitamin D status and allergic sensitization.
• Further research is warranted to explore this association, though causality and therapeutic benefits are not established.