Vitamin D and cardiovascular risk

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency results in abnormal mineralization of bones and has resulted in prevention programs for children with supplementation when they are breast fed. Further activities of vitamin D relate to defence of microbial infections, e.g. tuberculosis, prevention of cancer, contractility of muscle cells and counteraction of congestive heart failure. Given early reports in the 1960s on deleterious effects of vitamin D supplementation in rodents, that is ectopic media ossification of arterial vessels, a pro-atherogenic function had been anticipated for humans as well. However, cross-sectional studies reveal that vitamin D deficiency in humans is associated with elevated blood pressure and propagation of atherogenesis. These contradictory findings on the progression of atherosclerosis may be reconciled by dissecting the activation mechanism(s) of vitamin D in rodents versus humans. Notably, novel findings convincingly indicate that vitamin D exerts anti-inflammatory effects. In conclusion, vitamin D supplementation in adults may be regarded as simple means with few potential side effects to prevent atherogenesis or halt its progression and combat arterial hypertension. Adjustment of vitamin D dosing regimens is required in patients with chronic kidney disease; however, prospective clinical trials are urgently needed to guide these recommendations with evidence.

Association between vitamin D level and cardiovascular risk in obese children and adolescents

“…Several risk factors were determined and various parameters especially c-IMT predict the atherosclerotic process (22). Recent years dyslipidemia, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome were considered as important factors.…”

Effect of Activated Vitamin D on Glucoparameters in HCV Seropositive and Seronegative Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis

“…[1][2][3][4] Recent evidence in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes milletus (DM) suggests that alterations in vitamin D status may affect insulin sensitivity, β-cell function, or both, given the discovery of vitamin D receptors (VDRs) in β cells and vitamin D-dependent calcium-binding proteins in pancreatic tissue. 5 Vitamin D is essential for normal insulin release in response to glucose and for maintenance of glucose tolerance, whereas deficiency results in decreased insulin secretion without altering glucagon secretion.…”

Urea and atherosclerosis—evidence for a direct link involving apolipoprotein B protein modifications

“…On the other hand, awareness of other modulating factors that promote atherogenesis is increasing and has led to exciting results. These factors may also be denoted ''non-traditional'' risk factors [1]. Furthermore, a renaissance of some risk factors, such as metabolic disorders with hyperuricemia and the uremic state per se, takes place given that novel findings shed light on underlying pathophysiology [2].…”