Vitamin D as a Potential Player in Immunologic Control over Multiple Myeloma Cells: Implications for Adjuvant Therapies

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell malignancy with multifactorial etiology. One of the underlying mechanisms is immune system dysregulation. Immunotherapy is being widely introduced into various MM treatment protocols. Nevertheless, little is known about boosting the immune system with supportive treatment. Although classical actions of vitamin D (VD) are very well established, their non-classical actions related to the modulation of the immune system in MM are still a subject of ongoing research. In this literature review, we intend to summarize research conducted on VD and MM, both in vitro and in vivo, with particular emphasis on immune system modulation, the induction of the differentiation of malignant MM cells, synergic activity with anti-MM drugs, and MM-associated peripheral neuropathy.

Vitamin D and Multiple Myeloma: A Scoping Review

“…Vitamin D has been observed in pre-clinical settings to influence important disease components of MM, such as the differentiation of malignant cells and immunomodulation [ 9 ]. In real world settings, the interaction between vitamin D and the individual may have the potential to translate into clinically meaningful changes to their disease trajectory.…”

“…Pre-clinical research indicates that vitamin D may be meaningfully involved in the development and progression of MM. Relevant mechanisms whereby this vitamin may play such a role involve the differentiation of malignant MM cells; modulation of the immune response; and possibly through synergy with conventional treatment [ 9 ]. A more thorough synthesis of the clinical research would aid in determining if vitamin D status and/or supplementation produces clinically meaningful changes in the incidence and/or prognosis for patients with MM.…”