Minireview: Vitamin D: is there a role in extraskeletal health?

Endocrinology. 2011 Aug;152(8):2930-6. doi: 10.1210/en.2011-0243. Epub 2011 Jun 14.

Abstract

In recent years, vitamin D has received increased attention due to the resurgence of vitamin D deficiency and rickets in developed countries together with the identification of extraskeletal vitamin D receptor-mediated actions, suggesting unexpected benefits of vitamin D in health and diseases. Although there is increased awareness of the importance of vitamin D, the role of vitamin D in extraskeletal health has been a matter of debate. In this review, we will summarize what is known and indicate the questions that remain and need to be addressed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcitriol / physiology
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Female
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Immune System / physiology
  • Macrophages / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / prevention & control
  • Placenta / metabolism
  • Pregnancy
  • Receptors, Calcitriol / physiology
  • Vitamin D / physiology*

Substances

  • Receptors, Calcitriol
  • Vitamin D
  • Calcitriol
  • Calcium