Effect of Vitamin-D-Enriched Edible Mushrooms on Vitamin D Status, Bone Health and Expression of CYP2R1, CYP27B1 and VDR Gene in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in India and worldwide. Mushrooms are important nutritional foods, and in this context shiitake (Lentinula edodes), button (Agaricus bisporus) and oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus) mushrooms are known for their bioactive properties. The application of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation for the production of substantial amounts of vitamin D2 is well established. Levels of serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-OHD), parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were significantly (p < 0.05) improved in vitamin-D-deficient rats after feeding with UVB irradiated mushrooms for 4 weeks. Further, microscopic observations indicate an improvement in the osteoid area and the reduction in trabecular separation of the femur bone. In addition, the level of expression of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene and genes metabolizing vitamin D were explored. It was observed that in mushroom-fed and vitamin-D-supplemented groups, there was upregulation of CYP2R1 and VDR, while there was downregulation of CYP27B1 in the liver. Further, CYP2R1 was downregulated, while CYP27B1 and VDR were upregulated in kidney tissue.

Vitamin D from UV-Irradiated Mushrooms as a Way for Vitamin D Supplementation: A Systematic Review on Classic and Nonclassic Effects in Human and Animal Models

“…Malik et al (2022) [ 48 ] conducted a 4-week longitudinal study in India on 36 albino Wistar rats to investigate the effects of the treatment on blood biochemical parameters and bone homeostasis, as well as on the expression levels of bound vitamin D (CYP2R1, CYP27B1 and VDR) in the liver and kidneys of the rats. Experimental protocols with shiitake mushrooms, buttons, and oysters were designed to provide approximately 30 IU/day of vitamin D. Analysis of the experimental results did not reveal a statistically significant effect on body weight in the different experimental groups; but at the end of the study, there were positive and significant ( p < 0.05) changes in 25(OH)Dtot concentrations compared to the baseline for the GP-2 treatment groups (11.68 ± 1.92 to 46.00) ± 7, 61 ng/mL), GP-3 (from 16.92 ± 0.48 to 49.96 ± 5.42 ng/mL), GP-4 (from 15.32 ± 1.28 to 43.62 ± 5.83 ng/mL), GP-5 (from 12.48 ± 2.12 to 55.14 ± 6.60 ng/mL), and GP-6 (from 14.22 ± 2.49 to 66.14 ± 6.32 ng/mL).…”

“…The classical effects in animal models showed important and overall positive results. In the case of animal models, in all studies analyzed, regardless of treatment, animal sample or protocol, 25(OH)D levels were significantly increased compared to controls, as well as a significant reduction in PTH levels [ 44 , 45 , 48 ] in the studies in which it was analyzed. Notably, in a study conducted by Calvo et al (2012) [ 44 ], this result was also evident in rats that consumed unexposed mushrooms compared to the control group, suggesting that the mushrooms themselves may contain factors that facilitate calcium absorption and thus reduce PTH secretion.…”

“…Notably, in a study conducted by Calvo et al (2012) [ 44 ], this result was also evident in rats that consumed unexposed mushrooms compared to the control group, suggesting that the mushrooms themselves may contain factors that facilitate calcium absorption and thus reduce PTH secretion. With regard to calcium levels, only three studies showed results in this direction [ 45 , 48 , 51 ], all pointing out that Ca++ levels increased after treatment. Still, the study Lee et al (2009) [ 51 ], reported increased mRNA levels of active calcium transport genes (duodenal CABP9K, TRPV6, and renal CABP9K, TRPV5,6).…”

“…Still, the study Lee et al (2009) [ 51 ], reported increased mRNA levels of active calcium transport genes (duodenal CABP9K, TRPV6, and renal CABP9K, TRPV5,6). Again, Malik et al (2022) [ 48 ] found increased expression of VDR in the liver and kidney after treatment, while Dowley et al (2021) [ 47 ] showed increased expression in the duodenum.…”

“…With regard to bone density and morphology, all animal studies included in this review reported positive results. In particular, Calvo et al (2012) [ 44 ] showed an improvement in bone growth (particularly of the femur), Jasinghe et al (2006) [ 45 ] an increase in BMD and bone length of the femur, Malik et al (2022) [ 48 ] a significant reduction in osteoid area, and Lee et al (2009) [ 51 ] showed beneficial effects on bone density and bone length morphology.…”