The link between vitamin D deficiency and systemic lupus erythematosus

Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2008 Aug;10(4):273-80. doi: 10.1007/s11926-008-0044-3.

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent and is increasingly thought to be an important risk factor in many diseases that have high morbidity and mortality, including lupus. Vitamin D is an immunomodulatory hormone with effects on T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells. Animal models of autoimmune disease and epidemiologic studies suggest a role for vitamin D as a modifiable environmental factor in autoimmune disease. Recommendations are available regarding screening for and repletion of vitamin D deficiency. More research is needed to understand the role of vitamin D as an immunomodulator and to determine the optimal range of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D for musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and immune health.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / etiology*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / immunology*
  • Male
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide / genetics
  • Receptors, Calcitriol / genetics
  • Vitamin D Deficiency / blood
  • Vitamin D Deficiency / complications*
  • Vitamin D Deficiency / immunology*

Substances

  • Receptors, Calcitriol