Association of vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Taif population: a case-control study / Associação de polimorfismos do gene do receptor de vitamina D com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 na população Taif: um estudo de caso-controle

Abstract Several reasons may underlie the dramatic increase in type2 diabetes mellitus. One of these reasons is the genetic basis and variations. Vitamin D receptor polymorphisms are associated with different diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. The aim of this study is to investigate the possible association of two identified mutations ApaI (rs7975232) and TaqI (rs731236). Eighty-nine healthy individuals and Fifty-six Type 2 Diabetic (T2D) patients were investigated using RFLP technique for genotyping and haplotyping as well. The distribution of Apal genotypes was not statistically significant among the control (P=0.65) as well as for diabetic patients (P=0.58). For Taql allele frequencies of T allele was 0.61 where of G allele was 0.39. The frequency distribution of Taql genotypes was not statistically significant among the control (P=0.26) as well as diabetic patients (P=0.17). Relative risk of the allele T of Apa1 gene is 1.28 and the odds ratio of the same allele is 1.53, while both estimates were < 1.0 of the allele G. Similarly, with the Taq1 gene the relative risk and the odds ratio values for the allele T are 1.09 and 1.27 respectively and both estimates of the allele C were 0.86 for the relative risk and 0.79 for the odds ratio. The pairwise linkage disequilibrium between the two SNPs Taq1/apa1 was statistically significant in control group (D = 0.218, D' = 0.925 and P value < 0.001) and similar data in diabetic groups (D = 0.2, D' = 0.875 and P value < 0.001). These data suggest that the T allele of both genes Apa1 and Taq1 is associated with the increased risk of type 2 diabetes. We think that we need a larger number of volunteers to reach a more accurate conclusion.

Resumo Várias razões podem estar subjacentes ao aumento dramático da diabetes mellitus tipo 2. Um desses motivos é a base genética e variações. Os polimorfismos do receptor da vitamina D estão associados a diferentes doenças, como artrite reumatoide e diabetes. O objetivo deste estudo é investigar a possível associação de duas mutações identificadas ApaI (rs7975232) e TaqI (rs731236). Oitenta e nove indivíduos saudáveis ​​e 56 pacientes com diabetes tipo 2 (T2D) foram investigados usando a técnica RFLP para genotipagem e haplotipagem também. A distribuição dos genótipos Apal não foi estatisticamente significativa entre o controle (P = 0,65), bem como para os pacientes diabéticos (P = 0,58). Para as frequências do alelo Taql, o alelo T foi de 0,61, onde o alelo G foi de 0,39. A distribuição de frequência dos genótipos Taql não foi estatisticamente significativa entre o controle (P = 0,26), bem como os pacientes diabéticos (P = 0,17). O risco relativo do alelo T do gene Apa1 é 1,28 e a razão de chances do mesmo alelo é 1,53, enquanto ambas as estimativas foram < 1,0 do alelo G. Da mesma forma, com o gene Taq1, os valores de risco relativo e razão de chances para o alelo T são 1,09 e 1,27, respectivamente, e ambas as estimativas do alelo C foram de 0,86 para o risco relativo e 0,79 para o odds ratio. O desequilíbrio de ligação par a par entre os dois SNPs Taq1 / apa1 foi estatisticamente significativo no grupo de controle (D = 0,218, D' = 0,925 e valor P < 0,001) e dados semelhantes em grupos diabéticos (D = 0,2, D' = 0,875 e valor P < 0,001). Esses dados sugerem que o alelo T de ambos os genes Apa1 e Taq1 está associado ao aumento do risco de diabetes tipo 2. Achamos que precisamos de um número maior de voluntários para chegar a uma conclusão mais precisa.

Vitamin D receptor (VDR) mediates the quiescence of activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) by regulating M2 macrophage exosomal smooth muscle cell-associated protein 5 (SMAP-5) / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

An effective therapeutic regimen for hepatic fibrosis requires a deep understanding of the pathogenesis mechanism. Hepatic fibrosis is characterized by activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) with an excessive production of extracellular matrix. Although promoted activation of HSCs by M2 macrophages has been demonstrated, the molecular mechanism involved remains ambiguous. Herein, we propose that the vitamin D receptor (VDR) involved in macrophage polarization may regulate the communication between macrophages and HSCs by changing the functions of exosomes. We confirm that activating the VDR can inhibit the effect of M2 macrophages on HSC activation. The exosomes derived from M2 macrophages can promote HSC activation, while stimulating VDR alters the protein profiles and reverses their roles in M2 macrophage exosomes. Smooth muscle cell-associated protein 5 (SMAP-5) was found to be the key effector protein in promoting HSC activation by regulating autophagy flux. Building on these results, we show that a combined treatment of a VDR agonist and a macrophage-targeted exosomal secretion inhibitor achieves an excellent anti-hepatic fibrosis effect. In this study, we aim to elucidate the association between VDR and macrophages in HSC activation. The results contribute to our understanding of the pathogenesis mechanism of hepatic fibrosis, and provide potential therapeutic targets for its treatment.

Expression and Significance of Vitamin D Receptor Gene and NF-κB Pathway in Blood of Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the expression, clinical significance and prognosis of vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene and NF-κB pathway in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).@*METHODS@#Thirty children with definitive diagnoses of ALL from December 2018 to December 2021 were selected as ALL group, and 30 healthy children under physical examination were selected as control group. Peripheral blood of all study subjects was collected. The VDR and NF-κB mRNA and protein expressions were detected by real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot, respectively. The relationship between mRNA expression of the above genes and clinical characteristics of children was retrospectively analyzed.@*RESULTS@#The relative expression of VDR mRNA in peripheral blood of children with ALL was significantly lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05), while NF-κB mRNA was higher (P < 0.001). The expression of NF-κB mRNA in ALL children with peripheral blood white blood cell count (WBC) < 50×109/L at initial diagnosis was significantly higher than those with WBC≥50×109/L (P < 0.01). The expression of NF-κB mRNA in ALL children with infection was significantly higher than that those without infection (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in NF-κB mRNA expression between children with different sex, age, hemoglobin at initial diagnosis, platelet, immunologic typing, risk and induced response (P >0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The expression of NF-κB is of value to diagnosis and prognosis of ALL in children.

Identification of microRNAs targeting vitamin D receptor and their effect on parathyroid hormone secretion in secondary hyperparathyroidism / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To identify the miRNAs targeting vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene and their effect on parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion in secondary hyperparathyroidism.@*METHODS@#Primary parathyroid cells with secondary hyperparathyroidism were isolated by collagenase digestion and cultured. The miRNAs targeting VDR were screened by bioinformatics methods and full transcriptome sequencing, and dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to verify the targeting relationship between VDR and the screened miRNA. The effects of overexpression or inhibition of the candidate miRNA on VDR mRNA and protein expressions and PTH secretion were evaluated using qRT-PCR and Western blotting. The expression levels of the candidate miRNAs and VDR mRNA in clinical specimens of parathyroid tissues were verified by qRT-PCR, and the expression of VDR protein was detected by immunohistochemistry.@*RESULTS@#We successfully isolated primary parathyroid cells. Dual-luciferase reporter assay verified the targeting relationship of hsa-miR-149-5p, hsa-miR-221-5p, hsa-miR-222-3p, hsa-miR-29a-5p, hsa-miR-301a-5p, hsa-miR-873-5p, hsa-miR-93-3p with VDR, and among them, the overexpression of hsa-miR-149-5p and hsa-miR-301a-5p significantly increased PTH secretion in the parathyroid cells. In patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism, hsa-miR-149-5p was highly expressed in the parathyroid tissues (P=0.046), where the expressions of VDR mRNA (P=0.0267) and protein were both decreased.@*CONCLUSION@#The two miRNAs, hsa-miR-149-5p and hsa-miR-301a-5p, may promote the secretion of PTH in patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism by down-regulating the expression of VDR gene.

Polymorphisms of the Vitamin D Receptor Gene and Sex-Differential Associations with Lipid Profiles in Chinese Han Adults / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the vitamin D receptor gene ( VDR) with circulating lipids considering gender differences.@*METHODS@#Of the Han Chinese adults recruited from a health examination center for inclusion in the study, the circulating lipids, 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), and other parameters were measured. The VDR SNPs of Cdx2 (rs11568820), Fok1 (rs2228570), Apa1 (rs7975232), and Taq1 (rs731236) were genotyped with a qPCR test using blood DNA samples, and their associations with lipids were analyzed using logistic regression.@*RESULTS@#In the female participants ( n = 236 with dyslipidemia and 888 without dyslipidemia), multiple genotype models of Fok1 indicated a positive correlation of B (not A) alleles with LDLC level ( P < 0.05). In the male participants ( n = 299 with dyslipidemia and 564 without dyslipidemia), the recessive model of Cdx2 and the additive and recessive models of Fok1 differed ( P < 0.05) between the HDLC-classified subgroups, respectively, and Fok1 BB and Cdx2 TT presented interactions with 25OHD in the negative associations with HDLC ( P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#In the Chinese Han adults included in the study, the Fok1 B-allele of VDR was associated with higher LDLC in females, and the Fok1 B-allele and the Cdx2 T-allele of VDR were associated with lower HDLC in males. The interaction of VD and Fok1 BB or Cdx2 TT in males synergistically decreased HDLC levels.

Vitamin D/vitamin D receptor, autophagy, and infection / 中南大学学报(医学版)

Vitamin D plays an important role in mineral and bone homeostasis, immune responses, cardiovascular function and keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation. Vitamin D performs most of its functions by binding to vitamin D receptors (VDR), which interact with other intracellular signaling pathways to regulate bone metabolism, inflammation, immunity, cell cycle progression and apoptosis. Autophagy is a basic stress response in yeast, plants and mammals, and plays a critical role in maintaining optimal functional states at the level of cells and organs. Vitamin D/VDR plays an anti-infection role via inducing and regulating autophagy.

Exploring the expression profile of vitamin D receptor and its related long non-coding RNAs in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common type of childhood cancer. Previous studies have indicated the involvement of vitamin D receptor (VDR) and related long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) signaling in the pathophysiology of several cancers. However, their contribution to ALL remains to be elucidated. METHODS: In this case-control study, 30 patients with newly diagnosed ALL and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy children were selected. Then, the level of 25(OH) vitamin D and the expression of VDR and four VDR-related lncRNAs were assessed. RESULTS: No significant difference in serum 25(OH) vitamin D was observed between patients with ALL (20.42±6.5 ng/mL) and healthy subjects (25.45±11 ng/mL). In addition, the expression of MALAT-1, HOTAIR, and P-21 was not statistically significant between the two groups. However, a significant reduction in VDR and H19 expression was observed in patients with ALL (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: 25(OH) vitamin D insufficiency was evident in both groups. VDR and H19 signaling might be contributed to the pathogenesis of ALL, which needs further investigations.

Polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor gene in Crohn's disease / Polimorfismos do gene do receptor de vitamina D na doença de Crohn

Introduction: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene may help elucidate the pathogenesis of CD. Objectives: To analyze the role of VDR gene polymorphisms (ApaI, BsmI, FokI, and TaqI) in the development of CD. Methods: The present study is a systematic review with meta-analysis. a total of 50 articles in English and Portuguese published from 2000 to 2020 were selected from 3 databases. The relationship between CD and the VDR gene was addressed in 16 articles. Results: The TaqI polymorphism was analyzed in 3,689 patients and 4,645 control subjects (odds ratio [OR]=0.948; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]=0.851-1.056; p=0.3467). The ApaI polymorphism was studied in 3,406 patients and 4,415 control subjects (OR=1,033; 95%CI=0.854-1.250; p=0.7356). For FokI polymorphism, there were 2,998 patients and 4,146 control subjects (OR=0.965; 95%CI=0.734-1.267; p=0.7958). Lastly, the BsmI polymorphism was analyzed in 2,981 patients and 4,477 control subjects (OR=1,272; 95%CI=0.748-2.161; p=0.3743). Conclusion: These four VDR gene polymorphisms were not associated with CD. Therefore, further studies with larger samples are required to corroborate or rectify the conclusions from the present meta-analysis. (AU)

Introdução: A doença de Crohn (DC) e a retocolite ulcerativa (RU) são condições inflamatórias crônicas do trato gastrointestinal. Estudos indicam que os polimorfismos do gene do receptor de vitamina D (RVD) são promissores para a patogênese da DC. Objetivos: Avaliar papel dos os polimorfismos do gene do RVD (ApaI, BsmI, FokI e TaqI) no desenvolvimento da DC. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática com metanálise. Foram identificados 50 artigos em inglês e português publicados entre 2000 a 2020 em 3 bases de dados. Destes, foram selecionados 16 artigos que contemplavama relação entre a DC e o genedo RVD. Resultados: Para o polimorfismo TaqI, a amostra foi composta por 3.689 pacientes e 4.645 controles (razão de probabilidade [RP]=0,948; intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%]=0,851-1,056; p=0,3467). Para o polimorfismo ApaI, 3.406 pacientes e 4.415 controles (RP=1,033; IC95%=0,854-1,250; p=0,7356). Para o polimorfismo FokI, 2.998 pacientes e 4.146 controles (RP=0,965; IC95%=0,734-1,267; p=0,7958). E, para o polimorfismo BsmI, 2.981 pacientes e 4.477 controles (RP =1,272; IC95%=0,748-2,161; p=0,3743). Conclusão: Esses quatro polimorfismos do gene do RVD não apresentaram associação coma DC. Logo, sugere-se a realização de mais estudos com amostras maiores a fimde corroborar ou retificar a conclusão desta metanálise. (AU)

Effect of vitamin D3 supplementation on 25 OHD plasma levels in the presence of VDR gene polymorphisms / Efecto de la suplementación con vitamina D3 en los niveles plasmáticos de 25 OHD, en presencia de polimorfismos del gen VDR

The objective of this review was to investigate the effect of vitamin D3 supplementation on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration in individuals with single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor gene. The research was conducted on 241 articles found in the PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library databases between November and December 2018. After article screening, three randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials were identified as eligible for this review. Participants were Australian, Brazilian, and Chinese individuals, who ingested doses of vitamin D3 ranging from 2000 IU to a megadose of 200,000 IU. The presence of the BB/Bb genotype of the BsmI polymorphism and the FokI G allele caused an increase in the serum concentrations of vitamin D after supplementation. Nonetheless, the few studies on this subject are not unanimous in their results. It is possible that differences among populations, sample sizes, doses, and time of supplementation have an impact on data and outcomes.

El objetivo de esta revisión fue investigar el efecto de la suplementación con vitamina D3 sobre la concentración sérica de 25-hidroxivitamina D en individuos con los polimorfismos de un solo nucleótido en el gen del receptor de la vitamina D. La investigación se realizó en 241 artículos encontrados en las bases de datos PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct y Cochrane Library entre noviembre y diciembre de 2018. Después de la selección del artículo, se identificaron tres ensayos clínicos aleatorios, controlados con placebo, doble ciego, como elegibles para esta revisión. Los participantes fueron australianos, brasileños y chinos, quienes ingirieron dosis de vitamina D3 que iban desde las 2000 UI hasta una megadosis de 200,000 UI. La presencia del genotipo BB / Bb del polimorfismo BsmI y el alelo FokI G causó un aumento en las concentraciones séricas de vitamina D después de la suplementación. No obstante, los pocos estudios sobre este tema no son unánimes en sus resultados. Es posible que las diferencias entre poblaciones, tamaños de muestra, dosis y tiempo de suplementación tengan un impacto en los datos y resultados de la investigación.

Association between estrogen, vitamin d and microrna17 gene polymorphisms and periapical lesions

Abstract This study evaluated the association between polymorphisms in genes encoding estrogen receptors 1 (ESR1) and 2 (ESR2), vitamin D receptor (VDR) and in microRNA17 (which binds to ESR1 and VDR) with persistent apical periodontitis (PAP) after the endodontic treatment. We included 162 patients who completed endodontic treatment at least one year ago and presented apical periodontitis at the beginning of the root canal therapy. Clinical and radiographic exams were performed to evaluate the presence of PAP or healthy periradicular tissues (healed). Saliva samples were collected as a genomic DNA. The genotyping of ESR1 (rs2234693 and rs9340799), ESR2 (rs1256049 and rs4986938), VDR (rs739837 and rs2228570) and miRNA17 (rs4284505) were performed by real-time PCR. Chi-square test was used to the distribution of genotype and allele frequencies. Haplotype analysis was also performed. Eighty-nine patients were included in the "healed" group and 73 in the "PAP" group. No association was found between the allelic and genotypic polymorphisms studied and PAP (p>0.05). Haplotype analysis also did not demonstrated an association (p>0.05). In conclusion, the genetic polymorphisms in ESR1, ESR2, VDR and miRNA17 are not associated with PAP.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou a associação entre polimorfismos em genes que codificam os receptores de estrogênio 1 (ESR1) e 2 (ESR2), receptor de vitamina D (VDR) e no microRNA17 (que se liga à ESR1 e VDR) e a periodontite apical persistente (PAP) após o tratamento endodôntico. Foram incluídos 162 pacientes com tratamento endodôntico concluído há pelo menos um ano e que apresentavam periodontite apical no início da terapia endodôntica. Exames clínicos e radiográficos foram realizados para avaliar a presença de PAP ou tecidos perirradiculares saudáveis (cicatrizados). As amostras de saliva foram coletadas como fonte de DNA genômico. A genotipagem de ESR1 (rs2234693 e rs9340799), ESR2 (rs1256049 e rs4986938), VDR (rs739837 e rs2228570) e miRNA17 (rs4284505) foram realizadas por PCR em tempo real. O teste do qui-quadrado foi utilizado para a distribuição das frequências genotípicas e alélicas. A análise de haplótipos também foi realizada. Oitenta e nove pacientes foram incluídos no grupo "curado" e 73 no grupo "PAP". Não foi encontrada associação entre os polimorfismos alélicos e genotípicos estudados e a PAP (p>0,05). Concluí-se que os polimorfismos genéticos em ESR1, ESR2, VDR e miRNA17 não estão associados à PAP.

Association between root abnormalities and related pathogenic genes in patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the association between the abnormal root morphology and bone metabolism or root development related gene polymorphism in patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis.@*METHODS@#In the study, 179 patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis were enrolled, with an average age of (27.23±5.19) years, male / female = 67/112. The average number of teeth remaining in the mouth was (26.80±1.84). Thirteen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of nine genes which related to bone metabolism and root development were detected by matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Root abnormalities were identified using periapical radiographs. The abnormal root morphology included cone-rooted teeth, slender-root teeth, short-rooted teeth, curved-rooted teeth, syncretic-rooted molars, and molar root abnormalities. The number of teeth and incidence of abnormal root morphology in different genotypes of 13 SNPs were analyzed.@*RESULTS@#The constituent ratio of root with root abnormality in GAgP patients was 14.49%(695/4 798). The average number of teeth with abnormal root morphology in GAgP was (3.88±3.84). The average number of teeth with abnormal root morphology in CC, CT and TT genotypes in vitamin D receptor (VDR) rs2228570 was (4.66±4.10), (3.71±3.93) and (2.68±2.68). There was significant difference between TT genotype and CC genotype (t = 2.62, P =0.01). The average number of root morphological abnormalities in CC, CT and TT genotypes of Calcitotin Receptor (CTR) gene rs2283002 was (5.02±3.70), (3.43±3.95), and (3.05±3.12). The incidence of root morphological abnormalities in CC genotype was higher than that in the patients with CT and TT, and the difference was statistically significant(87.86% vs. 65.26% & 63.64%, P=0.006, adjusted OR =3.71, 95%CI: 1.45-9.50). There was no significant difference in the incidence of abnormal root morphology between CT and TT genotypes.@*CONCLUSION@#VDR rs2228570 and CTR rs2283002 may be associated with the occurrence of abnormal root morphology in patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis, which is worthy of further research.

Chronic Periodontitis in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Analysis of the FokI Polymorphism and Perception of Quality of Life

Abstract Objective: To analyze whether the FokI polymorphism (rs228570) present in the vitamin D receptor gene in type 2 diabetics is related to chronic periodontitis's clinical status and evaluates the influence of chronic periodontitis on the perception of quality of life. Material and Methods: It is a clinical and laboratory study, composed of a sample of 59 individuals with previous diagnosis of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and chronic periodontitis, of both sexes. On clinical examination, socio-epidemiological data and quality of life of patients with the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) were recorded and a periogram was performed. Subsequently, saliva was collected spontaneously in sterile Falcon tubes (15 ml) and stored in the freezer at -20 °C. The purification of the genetic material was done with a PROMEGA kit (Wizard®), and the polymorphism studied was FokI (rs228570), found in the vitamin D receptor promoting region, with rs: 228570. After extraction of saliva DNA and purification, genotyping was performed by real-time PCR using specific allele probes (TaqMan® System). Results: The polymorphism of the vitamin D receptor gene was not positively associated with the severity and clinical characteristics of periodontitis, but suggested a relationship with the extent of the disease. Periodontitis also had no positive association with patients' perception of quality of life. Conclusion: The perception of quality of life of patients with chronic periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus was compromised by the systemic condition, secondary to oral health, although some dimensions of OHIP-14 have been more frequently mentioned, such as psychological discomfort, physical pain and physical disability.

Influence of Polymorphism of Vitamin D Receptor (Fok I) on Hypertension

Abstract Evidence suggests that polymorphisms in the gene encoding a vitamin D receptor might affect blood pressure. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the association between hypertension and vitamin D receptor (Fok I) gene polymorphism. A literature search was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines using the MEDLINE®/PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library CENTRAL, SciELO, and LILACS databases. The quality of case-control or cohort studies and studies based on cross-sectional methodology was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the protocol of Loney and coauthors [25], respectively. In this systematic literature search, 215 publications were identified, of which 10 were analyzed, including seven case-control studies, two cross-sectional studies, and one cohort study. The association between Fok I polymorphism and hypertension was reported in 60% of the publications and the risk for hypertension was shown to be related to FF and ff genotypes. In addition, Fok I polymorphism was shown to increase plasma renin activity, which plays an important role in regulating blood pressure. However, no association was observed between Fok I polymorphism and serum vitamin D levels. In conclusion, Fok I polymorphism plays an important role in hypertension.

Vitamin D, vitamin D binding protein, vitamin D receptor levels and cardiac dysautonomia in patients with multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional study / Vitamina D, proteína de ligação à vitamina D, níveis de receptores de vitamina D e disautonomia cardíaca em pacientes com esclerose múltipla: um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Vitamin D is a pleiotropic steroid hormone that modulates the autonomic balance. Its deficiency has been described as an environmental risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS). The aim of this study was to investigate the serum levels of vitamin D, vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) and vitamin D receptors (VDR) and to evaluate cardiac dysautonomia in MS patients due to bidirectional interaction between vitamin D and the autonomic nervous system. Methods: The current cross-sectional study was conducted on 26 patients with relapsing-remitting MS and on 24 healthy controls. Twenty-four-hour ambulatory blood pressure variability (BPV) was calculated and the participants were evaluated for orthostatic hypotension and supine hypertension. Serum levels of vitamin D, VDBP and VDR were measured. Results: The mean serum vitamin D level was significantly lower in MS patients than in controls (p = 0.044); however there was no significant difference in terms of VDR and VDBP levels between the groups. Supine hypertension and orthostatic hypotension were significant and the 24-hour systolic BPV was significantly decreased in patients with MS (p < 0.05) compared to controls. No correlation was found between vitamin D, VDBP and VDR with supine hypertension, orthostatic hypotension and systolic BPV values (p > 0.05). Also, there was a negative correlation between VDBP and the EDSS (p = 0.039, r = −0.406). Conclusion: There was no correlation between orthostatic hypotension, supine hypertension and systolic BPV values and serum vitamin D, VDBP and VDR in MS patients. Future prospective studies with large number of patients may help us to better understand the relationship between vitamin D and the autonomic nervous system.

RESUMO A vitamina D é um hormônio esteroide pleiotrópico que modula o equilíbrio autonômico. Sua deficiência tem sido descrita como fator de risco ambiental para esclerose múltipla (EM). O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar os níveis séricos de vitamina D, proteína de ligação à vitamina D (VDBP) e receptor de vitamina D (VDR) e avaliar a disautonomia cardíaca em pacientes com EM devida à interação bidirecional entre vitamina D e sistema nervoso autônomo. Métodos: O presente estudo transversal foi realizado em 26 pacientes com EM remitente-recorrente e em 24 controles saudáveis. A variabilidade da pressão arterial ambulatorial (BPV) por 24 horas foi calculada e os participantes foram avaliados quanto à hipotensão ortostática e hipertensão supina. Os níveis séricos de vitamina D, VDBP e VDR foram medidos. Resultados: O nível sérico médio de vitamina D foi significativamente menor nos pacientes com EM do que nos controles (p = 0,044); no entanto, não houve diferença significativa em termos de níveis de VDR e VDBP entre os grupos. Hipertensão supina e hipotensão ortostática foram significativas e a BPV sistólica de 24 horas diminuiu significativamente em pacientes com EM (p < 0,05) em comparação aos controles. Não foi encontrada correlação entre vitamina D, VDBP e VDR com hipertensão supina, hipotensão ortostática e BPV sistólica (p > 0,05). Também houve correlação negativa entre VDBP e EDSS (p = 0,039, r = −0,406). Conclusão: Não houve correlação entre hipotensão ortostática, hipertensão supina e valores de BPV sistólica e vitamina D sérica, VDBP e VDR em pacientes com EM. Futuros estudos prospectivos com grande número de pacientes podem nos ajudar a entender melhor a relação entre vitamina D e sistema nervoso autônomo.

Assessment of polymorphismof the vdr gene and serum vitamin d values in gestational diabetes mellitus / Avaliação do polimorfismo do gene VDR e valores séricos de vitamina D no diabetes mellitus gestacional

Abstract Objective To evaluate the relationship between vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphism (FokI [rs10735810]) and serum vitamin D concentration in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods A prospective case-control study that recruited healthy pregnant women (control group) (n = 78) and women with GDM (GDM group) (n = 79), with no other comorbidities. Peripheral blood samples were collected in the 3rd trimester of gestation, and all of the pregnant women were followed-up until the end of the pregnancy and the postpartum period. Serum vitamin D concentrations were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). For genomic polymorphism analysis, the genomic DNA was extracted by the dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide/ cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB/CTAB) method, and genotyping was performed by the polymerase chain reaction - restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique, using the restriction enzyme FokI. The Student-t, Mann- Whitney, chi-squared, and Fischer exact tests were used for the analysis of the results. Results There was no significant difference between the pregnant women in the control and GDM groups regarding serumvitamin D levels (17.60 ± 8.89 ng/mL versus 23.60 ± 10.68 ng/mL; p = 0.1). Also, no significant difference was detected between the FokI genotypic frequency when the 2 groups were compared with each other (p = 0.41). Conclusion There was no association between the FokI polymorphism and the development of GDM, nor was there any change in serum vitamin D levels in patients with GDM.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a relação entre o polimorfismo do gene receptor da vitamina D (VDR) (FokI [rs10735810]) e a concentração sérica de vitamina D no diabetes mellitus gestacional (DMG). Métodos Estudo prospectivo tipo caso-controle que recrutou gestantes saudáveis (grupo controle) (n = 78) e com DMG (grupo DMG) (n = 79), sem outras comorbidades. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue periférico no 3° trimestre da gestação, e todas as gestantes foram acompanhadas até o final da gravidez e no pós-parto. As concentrações séricas de vitamina D foram mensuradas por cromotografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). Para análise do polimorfismo genético, o DNA genômico foi extraído pelo método de brometo de dodeciltrimetilamônio/brometo de cetiltrimetilamônio (DTAB/CTAB), e as genotipagens foram realizadas por técnica de reação de cadeia de polimerase - polimorfismo do comprimento do fragmento de restrição (PCRRFLP, na sigla em inglês), sendo empregada a enzima de restrição FokI. Foram utilizados os testes t-Student, Mann-Whitney, qui-quadrado e exato de Fischer para a análise dos resultados. Resultados Não houve diferença significativa entre as gestantes dos grupos controle e DMG quanto aos níveis séricos de vitamina D (17,60 ± 8,89 ng/mL versus 23,60 ± 10,68 ng/mL; p = 0,1). Também não foi detectada diferença significativa entre a frequência genotípica de FokI, quando comparados os 2 grupos entre si (p = 0,41). Conclusão Não foi identificada associação do polimorfismo FokI com o desenvolvimento de DMG, bem como não foi observada alteração nos níveis séricos de vitamina D em pacientes com DMG.

Effects of Vitamin D Receptor on Mucosal Barrier Proteins in Colon Cells under Hypoxic Environment / 中国医学科学院学报

To investigate the expressions of mucosal barrier proteins in colon cell line DLD-1 under hypoxic environment and its mechanism. Methods After DLD-1 cells were treated separately with hypoxia(l% O),vitamin D(100 nmol/L),or vitamin D plus hypoxia for 48 hours,the expressions of vitamin D receptor(VDR),tight junction proteins zonula occludens-1(ZO-1),occludin,Claudin-1,and adherent junction protein(E-cadherin)were determined by Western blot.Stable VDR knock-down(Sh-VDR)DLD-1 cell line and control DLD-1 cell line were established by lentivirus package technology and the protein expressions after hypoxia treatment were detected. Results Compared with control group,the expressions of occludin,Claudin-1,and VDR increased significantly after hypoxia treatment(all <0.001).In addition to the protein expressions of occludin,Claudin-1 and VDR,the expressions of ZO-1 and E-cadherin were also obviously higher in vitamin D plus hypoxia group than in single vitamin D treatment group(all <0.001).After hypoxia treatment,Sh-VDR cell line showed significantly decreased expressions of ZO-1(<0.001),occludin(<0.05),Claudin-1(<0.01)and E-cadherin(<0.001)when compared with untreated Sh-VDR cell line. Conclusion VDR acts as a regulator for the expressions of intestinal mucosal barrier proteins under hypoxia environment in DLD-1 colon cell line,indicating that VDR pathway may be another important protective mechanism for gut barrier in low-oxygen environment.

Regulation of bile acid metabolism-related signaling pathways by gut microbiota in diseases / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

Over the past decade, there has been increasing attention on the interaction between microbiota and bile acid metabolism. Bile acids are not only involved in the metabolism of nutrients, but are also important in signal transduction for the regulation of host physiological activities. Microbial-regulated bile acid metabolism has been proven to affect many diseases, but there have not been many studies of disease regulation by microbial receptor signaling pathways. This review considers findings of recent research on the core roles of farnesoid X receptor (FXR), G protein-coupled bile acid receptor (TGR5), and vitamin D receptor (VDR) signaling pathways in microbial-host interactions in health and disease. Studying the relationship between these pathways can help us understand the pathogenesis of human diseases, and lead to new solutions for their treatments.

The Function of the Vitamin D Receptor and a Possible Role of Enhancer RNA in Epigenomic Regulation of Target Genes: Implications for Bone Metabolism

Vitamin D (VD) is essential for bone health, and VD or its analogues are widely used in clinics to ameliorate bone loss. The targets and mode of VD anti-osteoporotic actions appear to be different from those of other classes of drugs modulating bone remodeling. VD exerts its biological activities through the nuclear VD receptor (VDR)-mediated transcriptional regulation of target mRNA and non-coding RNA genes. VD-induced gene regulation involves epigenetic modifications of chromatin conformation at the target loci as well as reconfiguration of higher-order chromosomal organization through VDR-mediated recruitment of various regulatory factors. Enhancer RNAs (eRNA), a class of non-coding enhancer-derived RNAs, have recently emerged as VDR target gene candidates that act through reorganization of chromatin looping to induce enhancer-promoter interaction in activation of mRNA-encoding genes. This review outlines the molecular mechanisms of VD actions mediated by the VDR and suggests novel function of eRNAs in VDR transactivation.

Vitamin D maintains E-cadherin intercellular junctions by downregulating MMP-9 production in human gingival keratinocytes treated by TNF-α

PURPOSE: Despite the well-known anti-inflammatory effects of vitamin D in periodontal health, its mechanism has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, the effect of vitamin D on strengthening E-cadherin junctions (ECJs) was explored in human gingival keratinocytes (HGKs). ECJs are the major type of intercellular junction within the junctional epithelium, where loose intercellular junctions develop and microbial invasion primarily occurs. METHODS: HOK-16B cells, an immortalized normal human gingival cell line, were used for the study. To mimic the inflammatory environment, cells were treated with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the culture medium were assessed by an MMP antibody microarray and gelatin zymography. The expression of various molecules was investigated using western blotting. The extent of ECJ development was evaluated by comparing the average relative extent of the ECJs around the periphery of each cell after immunocytochemical E-cadherin staining. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression was examined via immunohistochemical analysis. RESULTS: TNF-α downregulated the development of the ECJs of the HGKs. Dissociation of the ECJs by TNF-α was accompanied by the upregulation of MMP-9 production and suppressed by a specific MMP-9 inhibitor, Bay 11-7082. Exogenous MMP-9 decreased the development of ECJs. Vitamin D reduced the production of MMP-9 and attenuated the breakdown of ECJs in the HGKs treated with TNF-α. In addition, vitamin D downregulated TNF-α-induced nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling in the HGKs. VDR was expressed in the gingival epithelium, including the junctional epithelium. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that vitamin D may avert TNF-α-induced downregulation of the development of ECJs in HGKs by decreasing the production of MMP-9, which was upregulated by TNF-α. Vitamin D may reinforce ECJs by downregulating NF-κB signaling, which is upregulated by TNF-α. Strengthening the epithelial barrier may be a way for vitamin D to protect the periodontium from bacterial invasion.

Stanozolol promotes osteogenic gene expression and apposition of bone mineral in vitro

Abstract Stanozolol (ST) is a synthetic androgen with high anabolic potential. Although it is known that androgens play a positive role in bone metabolism, ST action on bone cells has not been sufficiently tested to support its clinical use for bone augmentation procedures. Objective: This study aimed to assess the effects of ST on osteogenic activity and gene expression in SaOS-2 cells. Material and Methods: SaOS-2 deposition of mineralizing matrix in response to increasing doses of ST (0-1000 nM) was evaluated through Alizarin Red S and Calcein Green staining techniques at 6, 12 and 24 days. Gene expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), vitamin D receptor (VDR), osteopontin (SPP1) and osteonectin (ON) was analyzed by RT-PCR. Results: ST significantly influenced SaOS-2 osteogenic activity: stainings showed the presence of rounded calcified nodules, which increased both in number and in size over time and depending on ST dose. RT-PCR highlighted ST modulation of genes related to osteogenic differentiation. Conclusions: This study provided encouraging results, showing ST promoted the osteogenic commitment of SaOS-2 cells. Further studies are required to validate these data in primary osteoblasts and to investigate ST molecular pathway of action.