Control of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol metabolism by parathyroid glands

Differential effect of caffeine administration on calcium and vitamin D metabolism in young and adult rats

Since coffee drinking may lead to a worsening of calcium balance in humans, we studied the serial changes of serum calcium, PTH, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) and calcium balance in young and adult rats after daily administration of caffeine for 4 weeks. In the young rats, there was an increase in urinary calcium and endogenous fecal calcium excretion after four days of caffeine administration that persisted for the duration of the experiment. Serum calcium decreased on the fourth day of caffeine administration and then returned to control levels. In contrast, the serum PTH and 1,25(OH)2D remained unchanged initially, but increased after 2 weeks of caffeine administration. The intestinal absorption coefficient of calcium remained unchanged, instead of declining gradually as observed in the young control group. This finding suggests that the intestinal absorption of calcium was stimulated by the increase in 1,25(OH)2D production after chronic administration of caffeine. In the adult rat group, an increase in the urinary calcium and endogenous fecal calcium excretion and serum levels of PTH was found after caffeine administration. However, the serum 1,25(OH)2D levels and intestinal absorption coefficient of calcium remained the same as in the adult control group. A decrease in the net balance of calcium occurred as a result of increased calcium excretion. The current study, using an animal model, supports the suggestion that chronic administration of caffeine could lead to negative calcium balance when there is an impaired ability to increase the efficiency of calcium absorption. Such a situation exists in elderly human subjects, since they have a reduced capacity to synthesize 1,25(OH)2D.

The osteoclast and periodontitis

The osteoclast may play an important rŏle in the variable rate of osseous destruction seen in periodontitis. Current understanding of various aspects of the osteoclast may help explain this fact. This review paper will first look at two theories of cell origin of the osteoclast: the multipotential osteoprogenitor cell theory and the hemopoietic stem cell theory. Next, ultrastructural features characteristic to the cell such as the ruffled border, clear zone, and lysosomal system, will be discussed. Thirdly, current and proposed theories on the actual mechanism of bone degradation are considered. This includes the one-cell theory and the two-cell theory. Finally, elements which activate the osteoclast are enumerated and their delicate interplay is outlined. In the context of this information, pathways found in the periodontal lesion (microbial agents, inflammatory cells and their products) which attract and activate elements of the osteoclastic system are discussed.

Vitamin D3 and D3 metabolites in young goats fed varying amounts of calcium and vitamin D3

Twenty-four male goats, 2 to 4 wk of age, were allotted to four dietary treatments in a 2 X 2 factorial design and, for 20 wk, were fed a milk diet at 12.5% body weight. Treatments varied in amounts of supplemental calcium and vitamin D3. Daily allowances per kilogram body weight were: 9.4 IU vitamin D3 (basal), 9.4 IU vitamin D3 plus 406 mg calcium carbonate (basal plus Ca), 940 IU vitamin D3 (basal plus D3), and 940 IU vitamin D3 plus 406 mg calcium carbonate (basal plus Ca plus D3). At the end of wk 7, a corn supplement was added to all diets at 1% body weight daily. Addition of vitamin D3 to the diet resulted in a dramatic increase in plasma concentrations of vitamin D3. Goats in the basal plus D3 and basal plus Ca plus D3 groups had nearly 100 X greater concentrations of vitamin D3 than goats in the basal and basal plus Ca groups. When greater amounts of vitamin D3 were fed, dietary calcium interacted to decrease plasma vitamin D3 concentrations. Plasma concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 were unaffected by additional dietary calcium but were increased by dietary vitamin D3, increasing sixfold to seven-fold in the basal plus D3 and basal plus Ca plus D3 groups. Supplemental calcium resulted in decreased plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. No signs of vitamin D toxicity were noted. The physiological responses reported implicate the goat as a potential animal model for vitamin D research in dairy cattle.

Oral intake of phosphorus can determine the serum concentration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D by determining its production rate in humans

Changes in the oral intake of phosphorus could induce the reported changes in the serum concentration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25-(OH)2D) by inducing changes in its production rate (PR) or metabolic clearance rate (MCR), or both. To investigate these possibilities, we employed the constant infusion equilibrium technique to measure the PR and MCR of 1,25-(OH)2D in six healthy men in whom the oral intake of phosphorus was initially maintained at 1,500 mg/70 kg body weight per d for 9 d, then restricted to 500 mg/d (coupled with oral administration of aluminum hydroxide) for 10 d, and then supplemented to 3,000 mg/d for 10 d. With phosphorus restriction, the serum concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D increased by 80% from a mean of 38 +/- 3 to 68 +/- 6 pg/ml, P less than 0.001; the PR increased from 1.8 +/- 0.2 to 3.8 +/- 0.6 micrograms/d, P less than 0.005; the MCR did not change significantly. The fasting serum concentration of phosphorus decreased from 3.5 +/- 0.2 to 2.6 +/- 0.2 mg/dl, P less than 0.01. With phosphorus supplementation, the serum concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D decreased abruptly, reaching a nadir within 2 to 4 d; after 10 d of supplementation, the mean concentration of 27 +/- 4 pg/ml was lower by 29%, P less than 0.01, than the value measured when phosphorus intake was normal. The PR decreased to 1.3 +/- 0.2 micrograms/d, P less than 0.05; the MCR did not change significantly. The fasting serum concentration of phosphorus increased significantly, but only initially. These data demonstrate that in healthy men, reductions and increases in the oral intake of phosphorus can induce rapidly occurring, large, inverse, and persisting changes in the serum concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D. Changes in the PR of 1,25-(OH)2D account entirely for the phosphorus-induced changes in serum concentration of this hormone.

Abnormal parathyroid hormone stimulation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1 alpha-hydroxylase activity in the hypophosphatemic mouse. Evidence for a generalized defect of vitamin D metabolism

Abnormal regulation of vitamin D metabolism is a feature of X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets in man and of the murine homologue of the disease in the hypophosphatemic (Hyp)-mouse. We previously reported that mutant mice have abnormally low renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1 alpha-hydroxylase (1 alpha-hydroxylase) activity for the prevailing degree of hypophosphatemia. To further characterize this defect, we examined whether Hyp-mouse renal 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity responds normally to other stimulatory and inhibitory controls of enzyme function. We studied stimulation by parathyroid hormone (PTH) using: (a) a calcium-deficient (0.02% Ca) diet to raise endogenous PTH; or (b) 24-h continuous infusion of 0.25 IU/h bovine PTH via osmotic minipump. In both cases enzyme activity of identically treated normal mice increased to greater levels than those attained by Hyp-mice. The relative inability of PTH to stimulate 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity is not a function of the hypophosphatemia in the Hyp-mouse since PTH-infused, phosphate-depleted normal mice sustained a level of enzyme activity greater than that of normal and Hyp-mice. In further studies we investigated inhibition of enzyme activity by using: (a) a calcium-loaded (1.2% Ca) diet to suppress endogenous PTH; or (b) 24-h continuous infusion of 0.2 ng/h 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3). The 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity of normal and Hyp-mice was significantly reduced to similar absolute levels following maintenance on the calcium-loaded diet. Further, infusion of 1,25(OH)2D3 caused a comparable reduction of 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity in normal, Hyp-, and phosphate-depleted normal mice. These observations indicate that the inhibitory control of 1 alpha-hydroxylase by reduced levels of PTH or increased 1,25(OH)2D3 concentrations is intact in the mutants. However, the inability of PTH and hypophosphatemia to stimulate enzyme activity in a manner analogous to that in normal and phosphate-depleted mice indicates that a generalized defect of 1 alpha-hydroxylase regulation is manifest in Hyp-mice.

Effect of kallikrein-kinin system on calcium-vitamin D3 metabolism

Kallikrein has been reported to stimulate callus formation and cell proliferation. It is well-known that vitamin D3 play an role on the metabolism of calcium. However, the relation between vitamin D3 and kallikrein are still poorly understood. We have studied the effect of kallikrein on calcium and vitamin D3 with canine kidney. Mongrel dogs were anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital and prepared by the method of Nakanishi et al. Drugs were infused into renal artery for 60 minutes under three different serum calcium concentrations (Exp. I, Exp. II, Exp. III). Blood samples were collected at the midpoint of the 60 minutes urine collection period. Plasma vitamin D3 concentrations were measured by the metabolites of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 and 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 was estimated by competitive protein binding assay and 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 was determined by radioreceptor assay after separated using HPLC. Electrolytes of sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and phosphorus in serum and urine, plasma cyclic AMP, glomerular filtration rate, renal blood flow and blood pressure were also measured respectively. Plasma 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 concentration was found to be decreased by the infusion of kallikrein (0.02 KU/kg/min) in three experimental conditions, especially in Exp. II. Bradykinin (0.02 microgram/kg/min) also caused to kallikrein-like changes of vitamin D3. It is suggested that kallikrein-kinin system is related to inhibit the mechanism of vitamin D3 activation system on kidney.

The effect of 1,25 dihydroxycholecalciferol on parathyroid hormone secretion by monolayer cultures of bovine parathyroid cells

Controversy exists over a direct effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on PTH secretion. To investigate the possibility that the suppressive effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on PTH secretion may be demonstrable in 1,25(OH)2D3-depleted tissue and/or after prolonged periods of exposure to 1,25(OH)2D3, primary monolayer cultures of bovine parathyroid cells were established in 1:1 DMEM/Ham's F-12 media supplemented with 2% calf serum but not 1,25(OH)2D3. Ionized calcium was maintained at 1.0 mM. Experiments were performed on 4-day-old culture cells. PTH concentration was measured using both a mid-region/carboxyl and an amino-terminal PTH antisera. 1,25(OH)2D3 at a concentration of 0.1 ng/ml suppressed PTH secretion by 32 +/- 7% after 48 hours. High calcium concentration (2.0 mM) suppressed PTH secretion by 37 +/- 10% and this effect was not additive over that of 1,25(OH)2D3. PTH secretion rate recovered fully 48 hours after normalization of the external calcium concentration but not after the removal of 1,25(OH)2D3. It is concluded that 1,25(OH)2D3 directly suppresses PTH secretion by monolayer culture of bovine parathyroid cells.

The physiology and pathophysiology of vitamin D

The vitamin D endocrine system plays an important role in the maintenance of normal calcium homeostasis. Abnormalities of this system occur in many conditions, such as rickets, osteomalacia, hypoparathyroidism, and hyperparathyroidism. The diagnosis and treatment of these disorders will be facilitated if the clinician understands the general mechanisms by which defects in vitamin D metabolism and action occur. We review this information and discuss the use and limitations of vitamin D metabolite assays for diagnosis of clinical disorders of mineral metabolism.

Evidence that blood ionized calcium can regulate serum 1,25(OH)2D3 independently of parathyroid hormone and phosphorus in the rat

This study asks whether arterial blood ionized calcium concentration (Ca++) can regulate the serum level of 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] independently of serum phosphorus and parathyroid hormone (PTH). We infused either PTH (bovine 1-34, 10 U/kg body wt/h) or saline into awake and unrestrained rats for 24 h, through a chronic indwelling catheter. PTH raised total serum calcium and arterial blood ionized calcium, yet serum 1,25(OH)2D3 fell from 35 +/- 6 (mean +/- SEM, n = 10) with saline to 12 +/- 3 pg/ml (n = 11, P less than 0.005 vs. saline). To determine if the decrease in serum 1,25(OH)2D3 was due to the elevated Ca++, we infused PTH into other rats for 24 h, along with varying amounts of EGTA. Infusion of PTH + 0.67 micron/min EGTA reduced Ca++, and 1,25(OH)2D3 rose to 90 +/- 33 (P less than 0.02 vs. PTH alone). PTH + 1.00 micron/min EGTA lowered Ca++ more, and 1,25(OH)2D3 increased to 148 +/- 29 (P less than 0.01 vs. saline or PTH alone). PTH + 1.33 micron/min EGTA lowered Ca++ below values seen with saline or PTH alone, and 1,25(OH)2D3 rose to 267 +/- 46 (P less than 0.003 vs. all other groups). Thus, during PTH infusion lowering Ca++ with EGTA raised 1,25(OH)2D3 progressively. There were no differences in serum phosphorus concentration or in arterial blood pH in any group infused with PTH. The log of serum 1,25(OH)2D3 was correlated inversely with Ca++ in all four groups infused with PTH (r = -0.737, n = 31, P less than 0.001), and also when the saline group was included (r = -0.677, n = 41, P less than 0.001). The results of this study indicate that serum 1,25(OH)2D3 may be regulated by Ca++ independent of PTH and serum phosphorus levels in the rat. Since 1,25(OH)2D3 regulates gastrointestinal calcium absorption, there may be direct feedback control of 1,25(OH)2D3, by its regulated ion, Ca++.

Effect of dietary mineral and vitamin D content and parathyroidectomy on the plasma disappearance rate of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in rats

The plasma disappearance rate of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2D3] was determined in rats after a single intravenous injection of the tritiated hormone. Tritiated 1,25-(OH)2D3 (120 Ci mmol-1) was administered to rats at a dose of 400 000 dpm kg-1 body weight and the animals were bled between 0 and 8 hours. The dose was estimated to produce negligible perturbations in endogenous plasma levels of 1,25-(OH)2D3. The plasma disappearance of 3H-1,25-(OH)2D3 occurred in two phases. The second phase plasma half-life of 1,25-(OH)2D3 in immature 25- to 35-day-old animals (4.7 hours) was significantly shorter than the second phase plasma half-life of maturing 49- to 65-day-old animals (8.0 hours). Phosphorus deprivation for 12 days significantly prolonged the second phase plasma half-life of 1,25-(OH)2D3 from a control value of 4.9 hours to 10.4 hours. Parathyroidectomy, regardless of the plasma calcium concentrations, shortened the second phase plasma half-life of 1,25-(OH)2D3 from control values of 9.1 hours to 5.0 hours. Calcium deprivation for 7 days did not alter the second phase plasma half-life of 1,25-(OH)2D3. Vitamin D deprivation for 5 weeks increased the second phase plasma half-life from 11.0 to 19.9 hours but the difference was not significant.

Long-term control of plasma calcitriol concentration in dogs and humans. Dominant role of plasma calcium concentration in experimental hyperparathyroidism

Despite great interest in the elevated circulating levels of calcitriol (1,25-[OH]2D) associated with the clinical syndrome of human primary hyperparathyroidism, the relative potencies of known and potential stimuli/suppressors of long-term calcitriol levels have not been evaluated in either clinical or experimentally induced hyperparathyroid states. Based on reports that aparathyroid animals exhibit suppressed plasma calcitriol concentration and that acute administration of parathyroid hormone (PTH) to both humans and experimental animals or to renal slices in vitro results in increased plasma calcitriol concentration/production rate, it might be predicted that a chronic experimental model of either hypercalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism or hypocalcemic secondary hyperparathyroidism would show increased plasma calcitriol concentration. Chronic alterations in plasma calcium concentration have not been implicated as modulating calcitriol levels in any species. Accordingly, we investigated the long-term response of plasma calcitriol concentration in states of sustained experimental primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Intact dogs (group I) undergoing continuous intravenous PTH infusion for 12 d developed sustained hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia, and plasma calcitriol concentration decreased from 23 +/- 3 to 14 +/- 3 pg/ml (P less than 0.01). Subsequent chelator (EGTA)-induced chronic normalization of hypercalcemia during ongoing PTH infusion resulted in a large and sustained increase in plasma calcitriol concentration to supernormal levels, reversible during subsequent cessation of chelator infusion. In additional intact dogs (group II), chronic chelator-induced hypocalcemic secondary hyperparathyroidism resulted in a sustained increase in plasma calcitriol concentration despite hyperphosphatemia. In normal human subjects undergoing a 12-13-d continuous intravenous PTH infusion to result in sustained moderate hypercalcemia (12.0 +/- 0.2 mg/100 ml) and hypophosphatemia, plasma calcitriol concentration decreased significantly (P less than 0.01) as in group I dogs and was followed by reversal to normal levels in a recovery period. The present results provide strong evidence in both humans and dogs that during experimentally induced chronic PTH excess, alterations in plasma calcium concentration dictate the directional response of circulating calcitriol concentrations. The long-term potency of plasma calcium concentration as a modulator of calcitriol metabolism is sufficient to override opposing modulation by plasma phosphorus concentration and PTH.

The mechanism of end-organ resistance to 1 alpha,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol in the common marmoset

The common marmoset, a New World monkey, requires a large amount of cholecalciferol (110 i.u./day per 100g body wt.) to maintain its normal growth. In a previous report, we demonstrated that the circulating levels of 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol [1 alpha,25(OH)2D3] in the marmosets are much higher than those in rhesus monkeys and humans, but the marmosets are not hypercalcaemic [Shinki, Shiina, Takahashi, Tanioka, Koizumi & Suda (1983) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 14, 452-457]. To compare the effect of the daily intake of cholecalciferol, two rhesus monkeys were given a large amount of cholecalciferol (900 i.u./day per 100g body wt). Their serum levels of calcium, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol and 24R,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol were markedly elevated, but the serum 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 levels remained within a range similar to those in the rhesus monkeys fed the normal diet (intake of cholecalciferol 5 i.u./day per 100g body wt). Intestinal cytosols prepared from both monkeys contained similar 3.5 S macromolecules to which 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 was bound specifically. However, the cytosols from the marmosets contained only one-sixth as many 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 receptors as those from the rhesus monkeys. Furthermore, the activity of the 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3-receptor complex in binding to DNA-cellulose was very low in the marmosets. These results suggest that the marmoset possesses an end-organ resistance to 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 and is a useful animal model for studying the mechanism of vitamin D-dependent rickets, type II.

1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 increases plasma magnesium and calcium in sheep fed liquid diets low in calcium and magnesium

Sheep given a liquid diet low in calcium and magnesium by infusion directly into the abomasum developed concurrent hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia, with plasma concentrations of calcium and magnesium decreasing to 2.0 and 0.4 mmol/l respectively. Treatment of these hypomagnesaemic sheep with 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2 D3) increased the plasma calcium, magnesium and phosphorus concentrations with plasma calcium increasing to 2.5 mmol/l and plasma magnesium to 0.6 mmol/l. Plasma magnesium increased despite a small but significant increase in the daily excretion of magnesium in the urine, and the amount of magnesium derived from either bone and/or intestine must have been greater than the amount lost in the urine. Since in other experiments we have demonstrated that plasma calcium remains within the normal range when a liquid diet adequate in magnesium but low in calcium is infused, these results imply that either synthesis of and/or end organ response to 1,25(OH2) D3 is impaired in magnesium deficient sheep.

Vitamin D and skeletal tissues

It is now accepted that vitamin D is an integral part of a complex endocrine system, one with far-reaching implications in mineral metabolism. Reviews of the sources, functions and metabolism of vitamin D, as currently understood, are presented as a prelude to discussions of the role of vitamin D in calcium and phosphorous homeostatis and possible specific roles for vitamin D in mineralized tissues. Data describing a possible regulatory function for vitamin D in bone and bone protein metabolism are presented. Some of the controversy which presently exists regarding the biochemical mechanism of the action of this vitamin is discussed. Finally, the possible relationship of vitamin D and disorders of skeletal tissues is described.

Effect of plasma levels of parathyroid hormone on NADPH pathways in kidney and liver

NADPH available for mixed function oxidations (pathway 1) or biosynthetic processes (pathway 2) has been evaluated in different cells from rat liver and kidney. In addition, changes of the proportion of NADPH utilized in each pathway were demonstrated in the same cells from rats showing different circulating levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Quantitative levels of NADPH directed into each of these pathways have been measured and histologically located in sections from rat liver and kidney using quantitative cytochemistry and scanning and integrating microdensitometry. Centrilobular hepatocytes utilize the major amount of NADPH, either via pathway 1 or 2. Kidney cells utilize most NADPH via pathway 2, particularly in the distal part of the nephron. The cells of the pars recta have shown the highest capacity to utilize NADPH via pathway 1, which is about half that of centrilobular hepatocytes. In centrilobular cells, the presence of high plasma levels of PTH results in a significant increment of NADPH utilization either via pathway 1 or 2. In kidneys from rats showing high plasma levels of PTH, a selective increase in NADPH utilized via pathway 2 was observed in the distal convoluted tubule whereas a selective increase in NADPH utilized via pathway 1 was demonstrated in cells of the pars recta. These observations provide further information in the understanding of the physiology of kidney and liver cells.

Marked suppression of secondary hyperparathyroidism by intravenous administration of 1,25-dihydroxy-cholecalciferol in uremic patients

Current evidence suggests that administration of 1,25(OH)2D3 to patients with chronic renal insufficiency results in suppression of secondary hyperparathyroidism only if hypercalcemia occurs. However, since the parathyroid glands possess specific receptors for 1,25(OH)2D3 and a calcium binding protein, there is considerable interest in a possible direct effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion independent of changes in serum calcium. Recent findings indicate substantial degradation of 1,25(OH)2D3 in the intestine, therefore, it is possible that while oral administration of the vitamin D metabolite increases intestinal calcium absorption, the delivery of 1,25(OH)2D3 to peripheral target organs may be limited. We therefore compared the effects of orally or intravenously administered 1,25(OH)2D3 on the plasma levels of 1,25(OH)2D3 and the effects of these two modes of treatment on PTH secretion. Whereas oral administration of 1,25(OH)2D3 in doses adequate to maintain serum calcium at the upper limits of normal did not alter PTH levels, a marked suppression (70.1 +/- 3.2%) of PTH levels was seen in all 20 patients given intravenous 1,25(OH)2D3. Temporal studies suggested a 20.1 +/- 5.2% decrease in PTH without a significant change in serum calcium with intravenous 1,25(OH)2D3. In five patients the serum calcium was increased by the oral administration of calcium carbonate, the decrement in serum i-PTH was only 25 +/- 6.65% when compared with 73.5 +/- 5.08% (P less than 0.001) obtained by the administration of intravenous 1,25(OH)2D3. Thus, a similar serum calcium achieved by intravenous 1,25(OH)2D3 rather than calcium carbonate has a greater suppressive effect in the release of PTH. These studies indicate that 1,25(OH)2D3 administered intravenously rather than orally may result in a greater delivery of the vitamin D metabolite to peripheral target tissues other than the intestine and allow a greater expression of biological effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 in peripheral tissues. The use of intravenous 1,25(OH)2D3 thus provides a simple and extremely effective way to suppress secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients.

Vitamin D status regulates 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-1 alpha-hydroxylase and its responsiveness to parathyroid hormone in the chick

We asked this question: Under normal or near-normal metabolic conditions, does the prevailing normal or near-normal vitamin D status dampen the activity of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D3-1 alpha-hydroxylase (1 alpha-hydroxylase) such that it determines not only its "basal" activity but also its responsiveness to stimulation by increased circulating concentrations of parathyroid hormone (PTH)? To answer this question, we measured the activity of 1 alpha-hydroxylase in chicks, with and without administration of PTH, immediately before and during deprivation of vitamin D. Before deprivation of vitamin D, 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity increased only slightly with administration of PTH. With deprivation of vitamin D for 5 and 10 d, while the plasma concentrations of calcium and phosphorus persisted normal and unchanged, 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity not only increased progressively but also became sharply and increasingly responsive to stimulation by administration of PTH. But after 15 d of vitamin D deprivation, and the supervention of hypocalcemia, 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity was not further increased by the administration of PTH. With deprivation of vitamin D, the progressive increase in 1 alpha-hydroxylase correlated inversely with circulating levels of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25-[OH]2D), and the decreasing calcemic response to PTH correlated inversely with the responsiveness of 1 alpha-hydroxylase to PTH (in chicks deprived of vitamin D for 1-10 d). These results demonstrate that: under normal metabolic conditions, the normal vitamin D status regulates the activity of 1 alpha-hydroxylase so as to dampen both its "basal" activity and its responsiveness to stimulation by PTH; and vitamin D deprivation insufficient to cause hypocalcemia enhances both the "basal" activity of 1 alpha-hydroxylase and its responsiveness to stimulation by PTH. The results suggest that the normal dampening of 1 alpha-hydroxylase and both of the demonstrated enhancements of its activity are mediated by normal and reduced levels of circulating 1,25-(OH)2D, respectively. The finding that PTH fails to further stimulate 1 alpha-hydroxylase when vitamin D deprivation is sufficient in duration to cause hypocalcemia confirms the findings of other investigators and again demonstrates that observations made during abnormal metabolic circumstances may bear little on the physiologic regulation of 1 alpha-hydroxylase under normal or near-normal metabolic circumstances.

25-Hydroxyvitamin D, 24, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D in human cerebrospinal fluid

Samples of CSF and plasma were obtained simultaneously from 46 adult patients who had no endocrine disorders and were undergoing routine diagnostic lumbar puncture because of suspected or proved prolapse of a disc. Concentrations of 25-OHD, 24,25(OH)2D and 1,25(OH)2D were measured. The samples were purified by column chromatography and fractionated by HPLC. In the appropriate fractions the vitamin D metabolites were measured by PBA, and cytoreceptor assay. The results were as follows (median, range in brackets): 25-OHD in CSF 8.3 ng/ml (2.0-24.8), in plasma 14.5 ng/ml (7.0-36.0). 24,25(OH)2D in CSF 1.8 ng/ml (0.3-4.6) and 2.5 ng/ml (0.4-4.7) in plasma. 1.25(OH)2 D in CSF 25.0 pg/ml (2.2-39.0) and 31.0 pg/ml (10.1-55.0) in plasma. The correlations between plasma and CSF concentrations were as follows: 25-OHD r = 0.479 (P less than 0.001); 24,25(OH)2D r = 0.815 (P less than 0.001) and for 1.25(OH)2D r = 0.497 (P less than 0.001). Our findings showed vitamin D metabolites to be present in human CSF.

Prolactin stimulation of parathyroid hormone secretion in bovine parathyroid cells

Previous studies have suggested that prolactin (PRL) may affect calcium (Ca) homeostasis by an action on vitamin D metabolism. In this study, the effects of PRL on parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion were investigated in dispersed bovine parathyroid cells (PTC). PRL (0.013-1.3 microM) caused concentration-dependent increases in PTH secretion. PRL-stimulated PTH release was apparent as early as 1 h and was progressive thereafter for up to 3 h. PRL enhanced PTH release over a wide range of ambient Ca concentrations (0.5-2.0 microM). Ovine and rat PRL were more effective than bovine PRL in stimulating PTH secretion. This effect was apparently specific for PRL because neither ovine nor bovine growth hormone stimulated PTH secretion. PRL-stimulated PTH release was not mediated through the beta-adrenergic or dopaminergic receptor systems of PTC and was not associated with increased adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) levels. This study demonstrated a direct effect of PRL to stimulate PTH secretion in vitro. Although these data do not provide evidence for an effect of PRL in vivo, we suggest a mechanism by which PRL may influence parathyroid function and Ca homeostasis in the bovine species.

Effect of dietary phosphorus on circulating concentrations of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and immunoreactive parathyroid hormone in children with moderate renal insufficiency

The hyperparathyroidism characteristic of patients with moderate renal insufficiency could be caused by decreases in the plasma concentration of ionized calcium (Ca++) evoked by: (a) recurring increases in the plasma concentration of inorganic phosphorus that may be detectable only in the post-prandial period; (b) a reversible, phosphorus-mediated suppression of renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1 alpha-hydroxylase that decreases the plasma concentration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25-(OH)2D) enough to decrease both gut absorption and bone resorption of Ca++; (c) both of these. In a group of eight children with moderate renal insufficiency, mean glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 45 +/- 4 (SE) ml/min per 1.73 M2, ages 6-17 yr, we tested these hypotheses by determining the effect of short term (5 d) restriction and supplementation of dietary intake of phosphorus on the plasma concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D, the serum concentrations of immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (iPTH) and phosphorus, and the fractional renal excretion of phosphorus ( FEPi ). When dietary phosphorus was normal, 1.2 g/d, the serum concentrations of phosphorus throughout the day were not greater than those of normal control children, and the serum concentrations of carboxyl-terminal iPTH (C-iPTH) were greater, 59 +/- 9 vs. 17 +/- 3 mu leq/ml, and unchanging; the serum concentration of intact-iPTH was also greater, 198 +/- 14 vs. 119 +/- 8 pg/ml. The plasma concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D was lower than that of age-matched controls, 27 +/- 3 vs. 36 +/- 2 pg/ml (P less than 0.01). When dietary phosphorus was restricted to 0.35 g/d, the plasma concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D increased by 60% to a mean value not different from that of normal controls, while serum concentrations of C-iPTH and intact-iPTH decreased by 25%, the latter concentration to a mean value not different from that of controls. FEPi decreased from 31 to 9%. When dietary phosphorus was supplemented to 2.4 g/d, the plasma concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D decreased 32%, while those of C-iPTH and intact-iPTH increased by 131 and 45%, respectively; FEPi increased from 27 to 53%. Plasma concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D remained normal and unchanged, and GFR did not change when dietary phosphorus was manipulated. The data demonstrate that in children with moderate renal insufficiency: (a) A normal dietary intake of phosphorus in attended by a decreased circulating concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D and an increased concentration of iPTH, but not by recurring increases in the serum concentration of phosphorus at any time of the day; (b) Dietary phosphorus is, however, a major determinant of the circulating concentrations of both 1,25-(OH)2D and iPTH, which vary inversely and directly, respectively, with dietary intake of phosphorus, and increase and decrease, respectively, to normal values when phosphorus is restricted for 5 d; (c) Restriction and supplementation of dietary phosphorus induces changes in the serum concentration of iPTH that correlate strongly but inversely with those induced in the plasma concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D (r = -0.88, P < 0.001); and (d) The physiologic responsiveness of the renal tubule to changes in dietary phosphorus is to a substantial extent intact. The data provide support for the second hypothesis stated.

Responses of chick renal cell to parathyroid hormone: effect of vitamin D

The in vitro incubation of chick renal cells with parathyroid hormone (PTH) resulted in the inhibition of Na+-dependent phosphate uptake when the cells were isolated from 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol [1,25-(OH)2D3]-repleted chicks but not when the cells came from vitamin D-deficient animals. Na+-independent phosphate and Na+-dependent alpha-methylglucoside uptakes were not affected by PTH and the vitamin D status of the bird. The activation of chick renal cell adenylate cyclase by PTH was significantly blunted when the enzyme was from vitamin D-deficient animals relative to the activation of the enzyme from repleted cockerels. This alteration was due to a change in maximum velocity of the system rather than an effect on the affinity for hormone. The response of adenylate cyclase to other hormones, e.g., prostaglandin E2, and activators, e.g., 5' -guanylyl-imidodiphosphate and forskolin, was not affected by the vitamin D status of the animal. PTH had little effect in activating protein kinase in cells from vitamin D-deficient chicks. In cells from vitamin D-sufficient birds, PTH caused a fourfold increase in adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase. Dibutyryl cAMP inhibited Na+-dependent phosphate uptake by cells from 1,25-(OH)2D3-repleted animals, but the cyclic nucleotide had no effect on phosphate uptake in cells from vitamin D-depleted chicks. This finding suggests that the loss of PTH receptor sites known to be concomitant with the secondary hyperparathyroidism associated with vitamin D deficiency is only a partial explanation for the failure of PTH to inhibit phosphate uptake in cells from vitamin D-deficient animals.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effect of age and dietary calcium on renal 25(OH)D metabolism, serum 1,25(OH)2D, and PTH

The purpose of this study was to determine how serum 1,25(OH)2D, renal production of [3H]1,25(OH)2D and [3H]24,25(OH)2D from [3H]25(OH)D, and serum IPTH change with age and dietary Ca restriction. Male Fischer 344 rats aged 3, 13, and 25 mo were placed on either a high-Ca (1.2%) or low-Ca (0.02%) vitamin D-replete diet. After 4 wk, serum was collected, and renal conversion of [3H]25(OH)D3 to [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 and [3H]24,25(OH)2D3 was measured in vitro using isolated renal cortical slices. Serum 1,25(OH)2D and renal [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 production were markedly reduced in 13- and 25-mo-old rats compared with 3-mo-old rats fed the low-Ca diet. In 3-mo-old rats, feeding the low-Ca diet increased serum 1,25(OH)2D by 18-fold and renal [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 production by threefold compared with feeding the high-Ca diet. In 25-mo-old rats, dietary Ca had no effect on these parameters. Renal [3H]24,25(OH)2D3 production was increased in the 13- and 25-mo-old rats compared with the 3-mo-old rats. Serum IPTH increased with age regardless of diet and was significantly increased by the low-Ca diet in 3-mo but not in 13- or 25-mo-old rats. The changes in serum 1,25(OH)2D and renal [3H]1,25(OH)2D3 production observed in this study may account for the previously observed age-related decline in intestinal Ca absorption in this animal model.

Rat renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1- and 24-hydroxylases: their in vivo regulation

The effects of thyroparathyroidectomy, parathyroid hormone, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, dietary calcium, dietary phosphorus, age, and sex on the renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1- and 24-hydroxylases measured in vitro in rats have been studied. Thyroparathyroidectomy of vitamin D-deficient rats abolishes 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1-hydroxylase activity, and administration of bovine parathyroid extract to the thyroparathyroidectomized rat restores diminished 1-hydroxylase activity. Both suppression and restoration of the enzyme activities require many hours (18-24 h) independent of rapid changes in serum calcium and inorganic phosphorus levels in response to these manipulations. Administration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 to vitamin D-deficient rats suppresses 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1-hydroxylase activity and stimulates 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 24-hydroxylase activity within 48 h. Rats maintained on a low-calcium or a low-phosphorus diet with a daily supplement of 20 IU vitamin D3 show high 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1-hydroxylase activity and low 24-hydroxylase activity as compared with rats similarly treated but fed a diet containing adequate calcium or adequate phosphorus. When vitamin D-sufficient rats having suppressed renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1-hydroxylase activity are placed on a low-calcium vitamin D-deficient diet for 7 days, the 1-hydroxylase activity is greatly stimulated in 6-wk-old rats but much less so in rats with advancing age.

Stimulatory effect of prostaglandin E2 on 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 synthesis in rats

The effect of prostaglandin E2 on accumulation in plasma of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxy[3H]vitamin D3 from 25-hydroxy[3H]vitamin D3 was studied in vivo using vitamin D-deficient thyroparathyroidectomized rats. Intra-arterial infusion of 10-50 micrograms of prostaglandin E2/h caused a significant stimulation of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxy[3H]vitamin D3 production. No significant changes in plasma Ca2+ and Pi concentrations or urinary cyclic AMP excretion were observed after prostaglandin E2 infusion. Theophylline did not enhance the effect of a submaximal dose of prostaglandin E2 on 1 alpha,25-dihydroxy[3H]vitamin D3 production. These data indicate that prostaglandin E2 stimulates plasma accumulation of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxy[3H]vitamin D3 independent of the adenylate cyclase/cyclic AMP system, and suggest that prostaglandin E2 has a modulatory role in the regulation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1 alpha-hydroxylase in the kidney.

Stimulation of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 production by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in the hypocalcaemic rat

Serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 concentration and renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity were measured in rats fed various levels of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D3. Both calcium deprivation and phosphorus deprivation greatly increased circulating levels of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. The circulating level of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in rats on a low-calcium diet increased with increasing doses of vitamin D3, whereas it did not change in rats on a low-phosphorus diet given increasing doses of vitamin D3. In concert with these results, the 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity was markedly increased by vitamin D3 administration to rats on a low-calcium diet, whereas the same treatment of rats on a low-phosphorus diet had no effect and actually suppressed the 1 alpha-hydroxylase in rats fed an adequate-calcium/adequate-phosphorus diet. The administration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 to vitamin D-deficient rats on a low-calcium diet also increased the renal 25-hydroxy-vitamin D 1 alpha-hydroxylase activity. These results demonstrate that the regulatory action of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on the renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1 alpha-hydroxylase is complex and not simply a suppressant of this system.

Lack of influence of 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on parathyroid hormone secretion from normal or hyperplastic glands

The role of 24,25(OH)2D3 on parathyroid gland function remains controversial. The present studies were performed in vitro using (a) dispersed normal bovine parathyroid cells (bPTC) and (b) dispersed canine PTC (cPTC) prepared from glands of normal dogs, dogs with chronic renal failure (CRF), and dogs with CRF treated with 24,25(OH)2D3, 2.5 micrograms orally every day for more than 6 months. Bovine parathyroid cells were incubated for up to 180 min at 0.5, 1.0, and 3.0 mM external calcium in the presence or absence of 24,25(OH)2D3 (100 or 1000 nM). Similar experiments were conducted with cells incubated for 24 h in the presence of either the ethanol vehicle or 24,25(OH)2D3 (1000 nM). Parathyroid hormone secretion, measured in the supernatant by both C-terminal and N-terminal assays, did not show any differences between control and experimental groups at any time interval. Canine parathyroid cells obtained from uremic animals showed an average threefold increase in the total amount of PTH secreted, on a per cell basis over 180 min at 0.5 mM Ca2+, when compared with normal controls. However, there was no significant difference in PTH secretion at any level of calcium concentration between the cells obtained from parathyroid glands of CRF dogs and 24,25(OH)2D3-treated CRF dogs. Acute exposure to 24,25(OH)2D3 (1000 nM) in vitro of the cells obtained from the glands of CRF dogs also had no effect on PTH secretion. We conclude that 24,25(OH)2D3 has no direct effect on PTH secretion from dispersed parathyroid cells of either normal or uremic animals.

Determinants of serum 1,25(OH)2D levels in renal disease

Serum 1,25(OH)2D and factors related to its production were studied in 39 patients with various degrees of renal insufficiency. Serum 1,25(OH)2D levels correlated positively with 1/serum creatinine values (r = 0.54, P less than 0.001) and negatively with serum phosphorus (r = -0.39, P less than 0.02) and age (r = -0.33, P less than 0.05). There was no significant correlation between 1,25(OH)2D levels and serum calcium or calcitonin or PTH, although the logarithm of PTH correlated inversely with 1,25(OH)2D levels (r = -0.47, P less than 0.01). Patients who had normal or supranormal 1,25(OH)2D levels despite low GFR tended to have low serum phosphorus values. Serum levels of bone Gla protein (BGP), a biochemical marker for bone metabolism, correlated negatively with 1/serum creatinine (r = -0.39, P less than 0.02) and positively with PTH (r = 0.57, P less than 0.001) and age (r = 0.33, P less than 0.05). Prophylaxis with 1,25(OH)2D should be considered in patients with significantly decreased serum 1,25(OH)2D levels, as seem to occur when serum creatinine is greater than 4.0 mg/dl. However, despite the statistically significant correlation between serum 1,25(OH)2D and 1/serum creatinine, direct measurement should be used to ascertain the serum concentration of 1,25(OH)2D in chronic renal insufficiency.

Unilateral nephrectomy and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3

Several renal functions respond to nephron loss by a compensatory adaptation. Whether the production of 1,25(OH)2D3 also adapts to a renal mass reduction is still a matter of controversy. In the present study we have investigated in rats the influence of unilateral nephrectomy, in both the acute (48 hr) and chronic (2 to 6 weeks) state, on plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 level measured by competitive protein binding assay. In the acute state no difference in plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 level between sham-operated (SHAM) and unilateral-nephrectomized (UNI-NX) rats was found. The presence of the thyroparathyroid glands was not required for maintaining plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 at a normal level 48 hr after UNI-NX. In the chronic state in rats fed at 1.1% Ca diet, plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 (means +/- SEM) was 94 +/- 4 in SHAM and 98 +/- 8 pM in UNI-NX. In rats fed a 0.1% Ca diet it was 252 +/- 16 in SHAM and 239 +/- 20 pM in UNI-NX. Analysis of 3H-1,25(OH)2D3 plasma decay curve indicated that in UNI-NX under a high calcium diet the normalization of plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 appears to be entirely due to an increase in production, whereas under a low calcium diet part of it may also result from a moderate decrease in the elimination rate. In conclusion, this study indicates that unilateral nephrectomy does not affect the level of plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 even under a calcium restriction challenge. This compensatory adaptation appears to be independent of parathyroid hormone.

The effects of thyroparathyroidectomy and 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 on changes in the activities of some cytoplasmic and nuclear protein kinases during liver regeneration

Partial hepatectomy (HPX), which proliferatively activates the remaining liver cells, triggered two transient prereplicative surges in the total activities of cytoplasmic types I and II cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase holoenzymes, and of nuclear catalytic subunits from cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinases. It also induced a transient prereplicative increase in the activities of a nuclear Ca2+-calmodulin-stimulable, protamine-phosphorylating protein kinase, and a nuclear poly(L-lysine)-phosphorylating, 105 kDa protein kinase. Thyroparathyroidectomy (TPTX) delayed and reduced the first surge and completely eliminated the second surge of both of the cytoplasmic cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinases, reduced the rises in the activity of nuclear catalytic subunits, and completely eliminated the surge of the Ca2+-calmodulin-stimulable protein kinase, but did not affect the surge of the nuclear 105 kDa protein kinase. The impairment of the responses of the two cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinases to HPX in TPTX rats was not accompanied by a rise in the level of heat-stable inhibitor of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase activity. One intraperitoneal injection of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D1 into TPTX rats immediately after HPX completely restored the post-HPX surges in the activity of type I cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase, but the hormone, even in high doses, had little or not effect on the type II isoenzyme or the nuclear Ca2+-calmodulin-stimulable, protamine-phosphorylating enzyme.

Early changes in the adaptation to a low calcium diet in the chick

Twelve hours after the diet of 3-week-old chicks was changed from a 1% to a 0.1% concentration of calcium (Ca), the growth rate and circulating levels of growth hormone had fallen while renal 25-hydroxecholecalciferol-24-hydroxylase had risen. The amount of 47Ca incorporated into bone from an injection given 18 h previously was lower than in the control birds. Over the following 2 1/2 days on the low Ca diet, the renal 1-hydroxylase activity rose and the plasma prolactin level fell, but the other parameters moved back toward the control level. It was concluded that early adjustments in hormonal and mineral metabolism counteract the acute effects of a dietary Ca shortage until longer-term adaptive changes begin to compensate for a continuing Ca deficiency. The renal hydroxylase activities were not directly influenced by the level of circulating growth hormone or prolactin.

The role of parathyroid hormone and calcitonin in magnesium absorption in the rat small intestine

We studied duodenal and ileal magnesium (Mg) absorption in intact, parathyroidectomized (PTX), thyroid-(TX) and thyroparathyroidectomized (TPTX) rats with iodine hormones replaced, and, additionally, in PTX rats receiving bovine parathyroid hormone 1-34 and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, respectively. Mg absorption was reduced after PTX and TPTX in the duodenum, but not in the ileum, whereas TX had no influence on duodenal or ileal Mg absorption. Both bovine parathyroid hormone 1-34 and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 increased Mg absorption in the duodenum and the ileum in PTX rats.

Role of parathyroid hormone and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in the development of osteopenia in oophorectomized rats

The effect of ovarian insufficiency on calcium metabolism has been thought to involve an increased bone resorptive effect of parathyroid hormone and possible impaired synthesis of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. In the present study a rat model allowing for controlled serum levels of parathyroid hormone and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 was used. Oophorectomy in this species is associated with increased serum levels of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and decreased bone mass. Although thyroparathyroidectomy increased bone mass, an increased sensitivity of bone to parathyroid hormone in oophorectomized rats was not observed. Thus the development of the osteopenia did not seem to be related to increased parathyroid hormone sensitivity or to reduced levels of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Exogenous 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 increased bone mass in oophorectomized as well as intact rats. Intestinal calcium transport was increased by moderate doses of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Intestinal calcium transport was also reduced by thyroparathyroidectomy and increased by the administration of parathyroid extract. A tendency for increased accumulation of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in blood in oophorectomized rats has been noted. It is suggested that the tendency to hypercalcemia in ovarian-insufficient females given 1-hydroxylated vitamin D compounds may be related to a diminished metabolism of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.

Specific binding of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol in human medullary thyroid carcinoma

A specific 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol-binding protein has been detected in high-salt cytosols prepared from human medullary thyroid carcinomas. The binding protein had the same equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd = 0.17 +/- 0.05 nM; n = 4) and sedimentation coefficient on sucrose gradients (3.7S) as than seen in established vitamin D target tissues. This protein was not detected in normal thyroid cytosols, which may reflect the low proportion of C-cells within the gland.

Autoradiographic studies with 3H 1,25 (OH)2 vitamin D2 and 3H 25 (OH) vitamin D3 in rat parathyroid glands

After injection of radiolabeled 1,35 (OH)s vitamin D3, nuclear concentration of radioactivity is observed in parenchymal cells o hte parathyroid gland in pregnant, adult male, and 10-day male neonatal rats. In competition studies with unlabeled 1,25 (OH)2 vitamin D3, but not with 25 (OH) vitamin D3, in contrast to 3H 1,25 (OH)2 vitamin D3, do not show nuclear concentration in cells of te parathyroid. The results of te autoradiographic studies suggest the presence of receptors for a direct effect of 1,35 (OH)2 vitamin D3 on the parathyroid gland for modulation of parathyroid hormone secretion.