The Vitamin D Receptor Story: Discovery, Control, and Genomic Reach
1Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison , Madison, WI, USA.
The Journal of Endocrinology
|August 6, 2026
Summary
The vitamin D receptor (VDR) regulates mineral balance, cell growth, and immunity. Recent research reveals its broader roles beyond calcium metabolism, highlighting its importance in various tissues and diseases.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Endocrinology
- Genomics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is a nuclear receptor mediating vitamin D's biological effects.
- VDR regulates mineral homeostasis, cellular differentiation, immune function, and metabolism.
- VDR acts as a transcription factor, heterodimerizing with the retinoid X receptor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current knowledge on VDR actions and its discovery.
- To highlight VDR's expanded roles beyond classical calcium and phosphate metabolism.
- To identify remaining fundamental questions regarding VDR function and its therapeutic potential.
Main Methods:
- Review of early biochemical and molecular studies.
- Analysis of VDR gene cloning and structural domain characterization.
- Integration of genome-wide binding and transcriptomic data.
Main Results:
- VDR's genomic mechanisms of action have been significantly advanced.
- VDR's role extends to diverse tissues, influencing tissue-specific outcomes.
- Extensive VDR cistromes and context-dependent gene networks have been identified.
Conclusions:
- VDR is a key factor linking vitamin D availability to tissue-specific outcomes.
- Fundamental questions remain regarding tissue-specific VDR actions and disease roles.
- Further research is crucial for translating VDR insights into therapeutic strategies.
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