Modulation of CYP27B1 and CYP24 mRNA expression in bone is independent of circulating 1,25(OH)2D3 levels

Oleanolic acid exerts bone anabolic effects via activation of osteoblastic 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1-alpha hydroxylase

Oleanolic acid (OA) is previously shown to exert bone protective effects in aged animals. However, its role in regulating osteoblastic vitamin D bioactivation, which is one of major causes of age-related bone loss, remains unclear. Our results revealed that treatment of OA significantly increased skeletal CYP27B1 expression and circulating 1,25(OH)2D3 in ovariectomized mice (p <0.01). Moreover, OA upregulated CYP27B1 protein expression and activity, as well as the vitamin D-responsive bone markers alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and osteopontin (OPN) protein expression, in human osteoblast-like MG-63 cells (p<0.05). CYP27B1 expression increased along with the osteoblastic differentiation of human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). CYP27B1 expression and cellular 1,25(OH)2D3 production were further potentiated by OA in cells at mature osteogenic stages. Notably, our study suggested that the osteogenic actions of OA were CYP27B1 dependent. In summary, the bone protective effects of OA were associated with the induction of CYP27B1 activity and expression in bone tissues and osteoblastic lineages. Hence, OA might be a potential approach for management of age-related bone loss.

Altered expression of the vitamin D metabolizing enzymes CYP27B1 and CYP24A1 under the context of prostate aging and pathologies

Low circulating levels of vitamin D are common at older ages and have been linked to an increased risk of prostate disease, including cancer. However, it has not yet been determined whether aging affects the ability of prostate cells to locally metabolize vitamin D into its active metabolite calcitriol and thus mediate the vitamin D signaling in autocrine and paracrine ways. By using a suitable rat model to interrogate spontaneous prostatic modifications over the course of aging, here we showed that both CYP27B1 and CYP24A1 enzymes, which are key players respectively involved with calcitriol synthesis and deactivation, were highly expressed in the prostate epithelium. Furthermore, as the animals aged, a drastic reduction of CYP27B1 levels was detected in total protein extracts and especially in epithelial areas of lesions, including tumors. On the other hand, CYP24A1 expression significantly increased with aging and remained elevated even in altered epithelia. Such intricate unbalance in regard to vitamin D metabolizing enzymes was strongly associated with reduced bioavailability of calcitriol in the senile prostate, which in addition to decreased expression of the vitamin D receptor, further limits the protective actions mediated by vitamin D signaling. This evidence was corroborated by the increased proliferative activity exactly at sites of lesions where the factors implicated with calcitriol synthesis and responsiveness had its expression inhibited. Taken together, our results emphasize a set of modifications over the course of aging with a high potential to hamper vitamin D signaling on the prostate. These findings highlight a crosstalk between vitamin D, aging, and prostate carcinogenesis, offering new potential targets in the prevention of malignancies and other aging-related disorders arising in the gland.

Obesity and leptin influence vitamin D metabolism and action in human marrow stromal cells

Obesity is associated with low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [s25(OH)D], high serum leptin, and generally high bone mineral density (BMD). Human Marrow Stromal Cells (hMSCs) differentiate to osteoblasts and are both a target and source of vitamin D metabolites in bone marrow. There is no information about the influence of obesity on vitamin D metabolism and osteoblastogenesis in hMSCs and little about direct effects of leptin on hMSCs. In this study, we tested the hypotheses that 1) obesity has an influence on the ex vivo constitutive expression of vitamin D-hydroxylase genes in hMSCs, and 2) recombinant human (rh) Leptin regulates the D-hydroxylases and promotes osteoblastogenesis in hMSCs. In a cohort of female subjects undergoing joint replacement surgery, the effects of Body Mass Index (BMI) and Fat Mass Index (FMI) on BMD T-scores and s25(OH)D were evaluated. hMSCs were isolated from bone tissues discarded during surgery. The direct effects of rh-Leptin on osteoblast differentiation and D-related genes in hMSCs were examined in vitro. There were positive correlations for BMD T-score of femoral neck and spine with BMI and FMI. Serum 25(OH)D levels in obese subjects were 71% of that in non-obese counterparts (p = 0.001). hMSCs from obese women had higher constitutive expression of CYP27A1/25-hydroxylase and vitamin D receptor. Those findings raised the mechanistic question of how obesity could influence vitamin D metabolism and osteoblast differentiation in hMSCs. Treating hMSCs with rh-Leptin in vitro significantly stimulated osteoblastogenesis. In addition, leptin downregulated CYP24A1 and upregulated CYP27B1, CYP27A1 and VDR, which play vital roles in vitamin D metabolism. Furthermore, co-treatment with leptin and vitamin D₃ metabolites promoted ALP activity compared with either alone. This research demonstrates links between obesity, vitamin D metabolism, and osteoblastogenesis by which leptin's direct effects on D-metabolism and osteoblast differentiation in hMSCs may protect bone from low s25(OH)D in obese subjects.

Anabolic effects of vitamin D and magnesium in aging bone

Decreased bone mass and an increased risk of bone fractures become more common with age. This condition is often associated with osteoporosis and is caused by an imbalance of bone resorption and new bone formation. Lifestyle factors that affect the risk of osteoporosis include alcohol, diet, hormones, physical activity, and smoking. Calcium and vitamin D are particularly important for the age-related loss of bone density and skeletal muscle mass, but other minerals, such as magnesium, also have an important role. Here, we summarize how optimal magnesium and vitamin D balance improve health outcomes in the elderly, the role of magnesium and vitamin D on bone formation, and the implications of widespread deficiency of these factors in the United States and worldwide, particularly in the elderly population.

Oleanolic Acid and Ursolic Acid Improve Bone Properties and Calcium Balance and Modulate Vitamin D Metabolism in Aged Female Rats

Oleanolic acid (OA) and ursolic acid (UA) are the major chemical constituents in Fructus Ligustri Lucidi (FLL), a kidney-tonifying Chinese herb that is previously shown to improve bone properties and enhance calcium balance in aged female rats. The present study was designed to study if OA and UA act as the active ingredients in FLL to exert the positive effects on bone and mineral metabolism in aged rats. Aged (13-month-old) Sprague-Dawley female rats were randomly assigned to four groups with oral administration of drug or vehicle treatment for 12 weeks: medium calcium diet (MCD, 0.6% calcium), high calcium diet (HCD, 1.2% calcium), MCD + FLL (700 mg/kg/day), MCD + OA (23.6 mg/kg/day) + UA (8.6 mg/kg/day). A group of mature (3-month-old) female rats fed with MCD was included as positive control. The results demonstrated that FLL and OA+UA increased bone mineral density and improved microarchitectural properties of aged female rats. The osteoprotective effects of FLL and OA+UA might be, at least in part, associated with their actions on enhancing calcium balance and suppressing age-induced secondary hyperparathyroidism in aged female rats. FLL and OA+UA also significantly induced renal CYP27B1 protein expression and OA+UA treatment decreased CYP24A1 mRNA and protein expressions in aged female rats. In addition, FLL and OA+UA significantly increased the promoter activity, mRNA and protein expressions of renal CYP27B1 in vitro in human proximal tubule HKC-8 cells. The present findings suggest that OA+UA can be regarded as the active ingredients of FLL and might be a potential drug candidate for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Oleanolic Acid Exerts Osteoprotective Effects and Modulates Vitamin D Metabolism

Oleanolic acid (OA) is a triterpenoid with reported bone anti-resorption activities. The present study aimed to characterize its bone protective effects in vivo and to study its effects on vitamin D metabolism, both in vivo and in vitro. OA significantly increased bone mineral density, improved micro-architectural properties, reduced urinary Ca excretion, increased 1,25(OH)₂D₃ and renal CYP27B1 mRNA expression in mature C57BL/6 ovariectomised (OVX) mice. OA also improved bone properties, Ca balance, and exerted modulatory effects on renal CYP27B1 and CYP24A1 expressions in aged normal female Sprague–Dawley rats. In addition, OA significantly increased renal CYP27B1 mRNA and promoter activity, and suppressed CYP24A1 mRNA and protein expressions in human proximal tubule HKC-8 cells. OA exerted bone protective effects in mature OVX mice and aged female rats. This action on bone might be, at least in part, associated with its effects on Ca and vitamin D metabolism. The present findings suggest that OA is a potential drug candidate for the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Long-term vitamin D deficiency in older adult C57BL/6 mice does not affect bone structure, remodeling and mineralization

Animal models show that vitamin D deficiency may have severe consequences for skeletal health. However, most studies have been performed in young rodents for a relatively short period, while in older adult rodents the effects of long-term vitamin D deficiency on skeletal health have not been extensively studied. Therefore, the first aim of this study was to determine the effects of long-term vitamin D deficiency on bone structure, remodeling and mineralization in bones from older adult mice. The second aim was to determine the effects of long-term vitamin D deficiency on mRNA levels of genes involved in vitamin D metabolism in bones from older adult mice. Ten months old male C57BL/6 mice were fed a diet containing 0.5% calcium, 0.2% phosphate and 0 (n=8) or 1 (n=9) IU vitamin D₃/gram for 14 months. At an age of 24 months, mice were sacrificed for histomorphometric and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) analysis of humeri as well as analysis of CYP27B1, CYP24 and VDR mRNA levels in tibiae and kidneys using RT-qPCR. Plasma samples, obtained at 17 and 24 months of age, were used for measurements of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) (all samples), phosphate and parathyroid hormone (PTH) (terminal samples) concentrations. At the age of 17 and 24 months, mean plasma 25(OH)D concentrations were below the detection limit (<4nmol/L) in mice receiving vitamin D deficient diets. Plasma phosphate and PTH concentrations did not differ between both groups. Micro-CT and histomorphometric analysis of bone mineral density, structure and remodeling did not reveal differences between control and vitamin D deficient mice. Long-term vitamin D deficiency did also not affect CYP27B1 mRNA levels in tibiae, while CYP24 mRNA levels in tibiae were below the detection threshold in both groups. VDR mRNA levels in tibiae from vitamin D deficient mice were 0.7 fold lower than those in control mice. In conclusion, long-term vitamin D deficiency in older adult C57BL/6 mice, accompanied by normal plasma PTH and phosphate concentrations, does not affect bone structure, remodeling and mineralization. In bone, expression levels of CYP27B1 are also not affected by long-term vitamin D deficiency in older adult C57BL/6 mice. Our results suggest that mice at old age have a low or absent response to vitamin D deficiency probably due to factors such as a decreased bone formation rate or a reduced response of bone cells to 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)₂D. Older adult mice may therefore be less useful for the study of the effects of vitamin D deficiency on bone health in older people.

Regulation of CYP27B1 mRNA Expression in Primary Human Osteoblasts

The enzyme 1α-hydroxylase (gene CYP27B1) catalyzes the synthesis of 1,25(OH)2D in both renal and bone cells. While renal 1α-hydroxylase is tightly regulated by hormones and 1,25(OH)2D itself, the regulation of 1α-hydroxylase in bone cells is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate in a primary human osteoblast culture whether parathyroid hormone (PTH), fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), calcitonin, calcium, phosphate, or MEPE affect mRNA levels of CYP27B1. Our results show that primary human osteoblasts in the presence of high calcium concentrations increase their CYP27B1 mRNA levels by 1.3-fold. CYP27B1 mRNA levels were not affected by PTH1-34, rhFGF23, calcitonin, phosphate, and rhMEPE. Our results suggest that the regulation of bone 1α-hydroxylase is different from renal 1α-hydroxylase. High calcium concentrations in bone may result in an increased local synthesis of 1,25(OH)2D leading to an enhanced matrix mineralization. In this way, the local synthesis of 1,25(OH)2D may contribute to the stimulatory effect of calcium on matrix mineralization.

Vitamin D status and metabolism in an ovine pregnancy model: effect of long-term, high-altitude hypoxia

Vitamin D status increases during healthy mammalian pregnancy, but the molecular determinants remain uncharacterized. The first objective of this study was to determine the effects of pregnancy, and the second objective was to examine the role of chronic hypoxia on vitamin D status and metabolism in an ovine model. We analyzed the plasma levels of cholecalciferol, 25-OH-D, and 1α,25-(OH)2D in nonpregnant ewes, near-term pregnant ewes, and their fetuses exposed to normoxia (low altitude) or hypoxia (high-altitude) for 100 days. Hypoxic sheep had increased circulating levels of 25-OH-D and 1α,25-(OH)2D compared with normoxic sheep. Hypoxia increases in 25-OH-D were associated with increased expression of renal 25-hydroxylases CYP2R1 and CYP2J. Pregnancy did not increase further the plasma levels of 25-OH-D, but it significantly increased those of the active metabolite, 1α,25-(OH)2D, in both normoxic and hypoxic ewes. Increased bioactivation of vitamin D correlated with increased expression of the vitamin D-activating enzyme CYP27b1 and decreased expression of the inactivating enzyme CYP24a1 in maternal kidneys and placentas. Hypoxia increased parathyroid hormone levels and further increased renal CYP27b1. Pregnancy and hypoxia decreased the expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR) in maternal kidney and lung, with opposite effects on placental VDR. We conclude that ovine pregnancy is a model of increased vitamin D status, and long-term hypoxia further improves vitamin D status due to pregnancy- and hypoxia-specific regulation of VDR and metabolic enzymes.

Effects of Osteoporosis-Inducing Drugs on Vitamin D-Related Gene Transcription and Mineralization in MG-63 and Saos-2 Cells

Vitamin D₃ is important for calcium and phosphate homeostasis. To exert its effects, vitamin D₃ has to be enzymatically activated into 1,25D₃ (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ ). Regulation by endogenous vitamin D metabolites of the activation and inactivation of 1,25D₃ is important to maintain adequate amounts of active vitamin D₃ . Vitamin D deficiency and low bone mineral density have been linked to treatments with antiretroviral drugs and glucocorticoids. However, the causes of drug-induced osteoporosis remain unclear. The antiretroviral drugs efavirenz and ritonavir as well as the glucocorticoid dexamethasone were included in this study. Their effects on transcription of vitamin D-regulating enzymes in MG-63 cells were investigated. Ritonavir and dexamethasone both induced transcription of CYP27B1, the enzyme responsible for the formation of 1,25D₃ . Efavirenz, however, suppressed CYP27B1 expression. When administered together with endogenous vitamin D metabolites, dexamethasone and efavirenz counteracted the 1,25D₃ -mediated up-regulation of CYP24A1, which inactivates 1,25D₃ . This suggests that the drugs may interfere with local regulation of the vitamin D metabolizing system in osteoblasts. Studies on mineralization were performed in MG-63 cells and Saos-2 cells by measuring calcium concentrations accumulated over time. The effects of efavirenz, ritonavir and dexamethasone and/or vitamin D metabolites were examined. 1,25D₃ induced mineralization in both cell lines. Efavirenz administered alone did not affect mineralization but suppressed the inducing effects of 1,25D₃ on mineralization in both MG-63 cells and Saos-2 cells. In summary, the results suggest that antiretroviral drugs and glucocorticoids may adversely affect bone by interference with the vitamin D system in osteoblasts.

CYP24 inhibition as a therapeutic target in FGF23-mediated renal phosphate wasting disorders

CYP24A1 (hereafter referred to as CYP24) enzymatic activity is pivotal in the inactivation of vitamin D metabolites. Basal renal and extrarenal CYP24 is usually low but is highly induced by its substrate 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. Unbalanced high and/or long-lasting CYP24 expression has been proposed to underlie diseases like chronic kidney disease, cancers, and psoriasis that otherwise should favorably respond to supplemental vitamin D. Using genetically modified mice, we have shown that renal phosphate wasting hypophosphatemic states arising from high levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) are also associated with increased renal Cyp24 expression, suggesting that elevated CYP24 activity is pivotal to the pathophysiology of these disorders. We therefore crossed 2 mouse strains, each with distinct etiology for high levels of circulating FGF23, onto a Cyp24-null background. Specifically, we evaluated Cyp24 deficiency in Hyp mice, the murine homolog of X-linked dominant hypophosphatemic rickets, and transgenic mice that overexpress a mutant FGF23 (FGF23R176Q) that is associated with the autosomal dominant form of hypophosphatemic rickets. Loss of Cyp24 in these murine models of human disease resulted in near-complete recovery of rachitic/osteomalacic bony abnormalities in the absence of any improvement in the serum biochemical profile. Moreover, treatment of Hyp and FGF23R1760-transgenic mice with the CYP24 inhibitor CTA102 also ameliorated their rachitic bones. Our results link CYP24 activity to the pathophysiology of FGF23-dependent renal phosphate wasting states and implicate pharmacologic CYP24 inhibition as a therapeutic adjunct for their treatment.

Compensatory Changes in Calcium Metabolism Accompany the Loss of Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) From the Distal Intestine and Kidney of Mice

1,25 Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2 D) increases intestinal Ca absorption when dietary Ca intake is low by inducing gene expression through the vitamin D receptor (VDR). 1,25(OH)2 D-regulated Ca absorption has been studied extensively in the small intestine, but VDR is also present in the large intestine. Our goal was to determine the impact of large intestinal VDR deletion on Ca and bone metabolism. We used transgenic mice expressing Cre-recombinase driven by the 9.5-kb human caudal type homeobox 2 (CDX2) promoter to delete floxed VDR alleles from the caudal region of the mouse (CDX2-KO). Weanling CDX2-KO mice and control littermates were fed low (0.25%) or normal (0.5%) Ca diets for 7 weeks. Serum and urinary Ca, vitamin D metabolites, bone parameters, and gene expression were analyzed. Loss of the VDR in CDX2-KO was confirmed in colon and kidney. Unexpectedly, CDX2-KO had lower serum PTH (-65% of controls, p < 0.001) but normal serum 1,25(OH)2 D and Ca levels. Despite elevated urinary Ca loss (eightfold higher in CDX2-KO) and reduced colonic target genes TRPV6 (-90%) and CaBPD9k (-80%) mRNA levels, CDX2-KO mice had only modestly lower femoral bone density. Interestingly, duodenal TRPV6 and CaBPD9k mRNA expression was fourfold and threefold higher, respectively, and there was a trend toward increased duodenal Ca absorption (+19%, p = 0.076) in the CDX2-KO mice. The major finding of this study is that large intestine VDR significantly contributes to whole-body Ca metabolism but that duodenal compensation may prevent the consequences of VDR deletion from large intestine and kidney in growing mice.

BMPs and the muscle-bone connection

Muscle and bone are two intimately connected tissues. A coordinated interplay between these tissues at mechanical levels is required for their development, function and ageing. Evidence is emerging that several genes and molecular pathways exert a pleiotropic effect on both muscle and bone. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are secreted signal factors belonging to the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily. BMPs have an essential role during bone and cartilage formation and maintenance. Recently, we and others have demonstrated that the BMP pathway also has a role in controlling adult skeletal muscle mass. Thus, BMPs become crucial regulators of both bone and muscle formation and homeostasis. In this review we will discuss the signalling downstream BMP and its role in muscle-bone interaction. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Muscle Bone Interactions".

1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 and extracellular calcium promote mineral deposition via NPP1 activity in a mature osteoblast cell line MLO-A5

While vitamin D supplementation is common, the anabolic mechanisms that improve bone status are poorly understood. Under standard mineralising conditions including media ionised calcium of 1.1 mM, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D) enhanced differentiation and mineral deposition by the mature osteoblast/pre-osteocyte cell line, MLO-A5. This effect was markedly increased with a higher ionised calcium level (1.5 mM). Gene expression analyses revealed that 1,25D-induced mineral deposition was associated with induction of Enpp1 mRNA, coding for nucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase 1 (NPP1) and NPP1 protein levels. Since MLO-A5 cells express abundant alkaline phosphatase that was not further modified by 1,25D treatment or exposure to increased calcium, this finding suggested that the NPP1 production of pyrophosphate (PPi) may provide alkaline phosphatase with substrate for the generation of inorganic phosphate (Pi). Consistent with this, co-treatment with Enpp1 siRNA or a NPP1 inhibitor, PPADS, abrogated 1,25D-induced mineral deposition. These data demonstrate that 1,25D stimulates osteoblast differentiation and mineral deposition, and interacts with the extracellular calcium concentration. 1,25D regulates Enpp1 expression, which presumably, in the context of adequate tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase activity, provides Pi to stimulate mineralisation. Our findings suggest a mechanism by which vitamin D with adequate dietary calcium can improve bone mineral status.

Vitamin D, muscle and bone: Integrating effects in development, aging and injury

Beyond the established effects of muscle loading on bone, a complex network of hormones and growth factors integrates these adjacent tissues. One such hormone, vitamin D, exerts broad-ranging effects in muscle and bone calcium handling, differentiation and development. Vitamin D also modulates muscle and bone-derived hormones, potentially facilitating cross-talk between these tissues. In the clinical setting, vitamin D deficiency or mutations of the vitamin D receptor result in generalized atrophy of muscle and bone, suggesting coordinated effects of vitamin D at these sites. In this review, we discuss emerging evidence that vitamin D exerts specific effects throughout the life of the musculoskeletal system - in development, aging and injury. From this holistic viewpoint, we offer new insights into an old debate: whether vitamin D's effects in the musculoskeletal system are direct via local VDR signals or indirect via its systemic effects in calcium and phosphate homeostasis.

Analysis of vitamin D metabolism gene expression in human bone: evidence for autocrine control of bone remodelling

The metabolism of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25D) to active 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25D) by endogenous expression of 25D 1-α hydroxylase (CYP27B1) in bone cells appears to have functional effects in both osteoclasts and osteoblasts. To examine relationships between CYP27B1 expression in bone and its potential function in vivo, we examined the expression of vitamin D metabolism genes (CYP27B1, CYP24A1, VDR) in human trabecular bone samples and compared them by linear regression analysis with the expression of osteoclast (TRAP, CA2, CATK, NFATC1), osteoblast (TNAP, COL1A1, OCN, MEPE, BRIL), osteocyte (DMP1, SOST, PHEX, MEPE, FGF23)-related gene markers, genes associated with osteoblast/osteocyte control of osteoclastogenesis (RANKL, M-CSF, OPG, IL-8, TWEAK) and transcription factors (NFATC1, RUNX2, OSX, MSX2, HIF1A). This revealed multiple significant gene expression relationships between CYP27B1 and the transcription factors RUNX2, NFATC1, consistent with the coordinated expression of this gene by both osteoblast and osteoclast-lineage cells, and with MSX2 and the hypoxia-inducible transcription factor, HIF1A. CYP27B1 expression associated mainly with gene markers of bone resorption. VDR mRNA expression was also associated with resorption-related genes. Against expectations, CYP27B1 expression did not associate with bone expressed genes known to be 1,25D responsive, such as OCN, RANKL and DMP1. The major implication of these relationships in gene expression is that endogenous 1,25D synthesis and the response to 1,25D in human trabecular bone is linked with coordinated functions in both the osteoclastic and osteoblastic compartments towards the control of bone remodelling. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled '16th Vitamin D Workshop'.

Vitamin D activities for health outcomes

Reports describing significant health risks due to inadequate vitamin D status continue to generate considerable interest amongst the medical and lay communities alike. Recent research on the various molecular activities of the vitamin D system, including the nuclear vitamin D receptor and other receptors for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and vitamin D metabolism, provides evidence that the vitamin D system carries out biological activities across a wide range of tissues similar to other nuclear receptor hormones. This knowledge provides physiological plausibility of the various health benefits claimed to be provided by vitamin D and supports the proposals for conducting clinical trials. The vitamin D system plays critical roles in the maintenance of plasma calcium and phosphate and bone mineral homeostasis. Recent evidence confirms that plasma calcium homeostasis is the critical factor modulating vitamin D activity. Vitamin D activities in the skeleton include stimulation or inhibition of bone resorption and inhibition or stimulation of bone formation. The three major bone cell types, which are osteoblasts, osteocytes and osteoclasts, can all respond to vitamin D via the classical nuclear vitamin D receptor and metabolize 25-hydroxyvitamin D to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D to activate the vitamin D receptor and modulate gene expression. Dietary calcium intake interacts with vitamin D metabolism at both the renal and bone tissue levels to direct either a catabolic action on the bone through the endocrine system when calcium intake is inadequate or an anabolic action through a bone autocrine or paracrine system when calcium intake is sufficient.

Greater seasonal cycling of 25-hydroxyvitamin D is associated with increased parathyroid hormone and bone resorption

SUMMARY

This analysis assessed whether seasonal change in 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration was associated with bone resorption, as evidenced by serum parathyroid hormone and C-terminal telopeptide concentrations. The main finding was that increased seasonal fluctuation in 25-hydroxyvitamin D was associated with increased levels of parathyroid hormone and C-terminal telopeptide.

INTRODUCTION

It is established that adequate 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D, vitamin D) concentration is required for healthy bone mineralisation. It is unknown whether seasonal fluctuations in 25(OH)D also impact on bone health. If large seasonal fluctuations in 25(OH)D were associated with increased bone resorption, this would suggest a detriment to bone health. Therefore, this analysis assessed whether there is an association between seasonal variation in 25(OH)D and bone resorption.

METHODS

The participants were (n = 279) Caucasian and (n = 88) South Asian women (mean (±SD); age 48.2 years (14.4)) who participated in the longitudinal Diet, Food Intake, Nutrition and Exposure to the Sun in Southern England study (2006-2007). The main outcomes were serum 25(OH)D, serum parathyroid hormone (sPTH) and serum C-terminal telopeptide of collagen (sCTX), sampled once per season for each participant.

RESULTS

Non-linear mixed modelling showed the (amplitude/mesor) ratio for seasonal change in log 25(OH)D to be predictive of log sPTH (estimate = 0.057, 95 % CI (0.051, 0.063), p < 0.0001). Therefore, individuals with a higher seasonal change in log 25(OH)D, adjusted for overall log 25(OH)D concentration, showed increased levels of log sPTH. There was a corresponding significant ability to predict the range of seasonal change in log 25(OH)D through the level of sCTX. Here, the corresponding parameter statistics were estimate = 0.528, 95 % CI (0.418, 0.638) and p ≤ 0.0001.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest a possible detriment to bone health via increased levels of sPTH and sCTX in individuals with a larger seasonal change in 25(OH)D concentration. Further larger cohort studies are required to further investigate these preliminary findings.

Characterization of an animal model of pregnancy-induced vitamin D deficiency due to metabolic gene dysregulation

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and recurrent miscarriage. Therefore, we hypothesized differences in vitamin D status between healthy [Sprague-Dawley (SD) and Lewis (LW)] and complicated [Brown Norway (BN)] rat pregnancies. In SD, LW, and BN rats, we analyzed the maternal plasma levels of the vitamin D metabolites 25-OH-D and 1,25-(OH)2-D at prepregnancy, pregnancy, and postpartum. Analysis of the active metabolite 1,25-(OH)2-D showed a twofold increase in pregnant SD and LW rats but a nearly 10-fold decrease in pregnant BN rats compared with nonpregnant controls. BN rats had a pregnancy-dependent upregulation of CYP24a1 expression, a key enzyme that inactivates vitamin D metabolites. In contrast, the maternal renal expression of CYP24a1 in SD and LW rats remained constant throughout pregnancy. Analysis of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) indicated that LW and SD but not BN rats experience a pregnancy-induced 10-fold decrease in maternal renal VDR protein levels. Further analysis of bisulfite-converted and genomic DNA indicated that the observed differences in maternal renal regulation of CYP24a1 during pregnancy and lactation are not due to differences in CYP24a1 promoter methylation or single-nucleotide polymorphisms. Finally, supplementation with 1,25-(OH)2-D significantly improved the reproductive phenotype of BN rats by increasing litter size and maternal-fetal weight outcomes. We conclude that BN rats represent a novel animal model of pregnancy-specific vitamin D deficiency that is linked to pregnancy complications. Vitamin D deficiency in BN rats correlates with maternal renal CYP24a1 upregulation followed by CYP27b1 upregulation.

The pleiotropic effects of vitamin D in bone

A current controversial question related to vitamin D supplementation is what level of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) is required to reduce the incidence of osteoporotic fractures. The reasoning behind vitamin D supplementation has been mostly derived from the role of vitamin D to promote intestinal calcium absorption and reduce bone resorption. While minimum 25(OH)D3 levels of 20nmol/L are required for sufficient intestinal calcium absorption to prevent osteomalacia, the mechanistic details of how higher 25(OH)D3 levels, well beyond that required for optimal calcium absorption, are able to prevent fractures and increase bone mineral density is unclear. Substantial evidence has arisen over the past decade that conversion of 25(OH)D3 to 1,25(OH)2D3via the 1-alpha hydroxylase (CYP27B1) enzyme in osteoblasts, osteocytes, chondrocytes and osteoclasts regulates processes such as cell proliferation, maturation and mineralization as well as bone resorption, which are all dependent on the presence the of the vitamin D receptor (VDR). We and others have also shown that increased vitamin D activity in mature osteoblasts by increasing levels of VDR or CYP27B1 leads to improved bone mineral volume using two separate transgenic mouse models. While questions remain regarding activities of vitamin D in bone to influence the anabolic and catabolic processes, the biological importance of vitamin D activity within the bone is unquestioned. However, a clearer understanding of the varied mechanisms by which vitamin D directly and indirectly influences mineral bone status are required to support evidence-based recommendations for vitamin D supplementation to reduce the risk of fractures. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Vitamin D workshop'.

UV-irradiated 7-dehydrocholesterol coating on polystyrene surfaces is converted to active vitamin D by osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of UV irradiation on the conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC), which has been coated onto a polystyrene surface, to cholecalciferol (D3), and the resulting effect on the formation of vitamin D (1,25-D3) by MC3T3-E1 cells. The changes in gene expression of the enzymes regulating its hydroxylation, Cyp27b1 and Cyp27a1, were monitored as well as the net effect of the UV-treated 7-DHC coating on cell viability and osteoblast differentiation. MC3T3-E1 cells were found to express the enzymes required for synthesizing active 1,25-D3, and we found a dose-dependent increase in the production of both 25-D3 and 1,25-D3 levels for UV-activated 7-DHC samples unlike UV-untreated ones. Cell viability revealed no cytotoxic effect for any of the treatments, but only for the highest dose of 7-DHC (20 nmol per well) that was UV-irradiated. Furthermore, osteoblast differentiation was increased in cells treated with some of the higher doses of 7-DHC when UV-irradiated, as shown by collagen-I, osterix and osteocalcin relative mRNA levels. The conversion of 7-DHC to preD3 exogenously by UV irradiation and later to 25-D3 by MC3T3-E1 cells was determined for the optimum 7-DHC dose (0.2 nmol per well), i.e. 8.6 ± 0.7% of UV-activated 7-DHC was converted to preD3 and 6.7 ± 2.8% of preD3 was finally converted to 25-D3 under the conditions studied. In conclusion, we demonstrate that an exogenous coating of 7-DHC, when UV-irradiated, can be used to endogenously produce active vitamin D. We hereby provide the scientific basis for UV-activated 7-DHC coating as a feasible approach for implant therapeutics focused on bone regeneration.

UV photoactivation of 7-dehydrocholesterol on titanium implants enhances osteoblast differentiation and decreases Rankl gene expression

Vitamin D plays a central role in bone regeneration, and its insufficiency has been reported to have profound negative effects on implant osseointegration. The present study aimed to test the in vitro biological effect of titanium (Ti) implants coated with UV-activated 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC), the precursor of vitamin D, on cytotoxicity and osteoblast differentiation. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the changes in chemical structure of 7-DHC after UV exposure. High-pressure liquid chromatography analysis determined a 16.5±0.9% conversion of 7-DHC to previtamin D(3) after 15min of UV exposure, and a 34.2±4.8% of the preD(3) produced was finally converted to 25-hydroxyvitamin D(3) (25-D(3)) by the osteoblastic cells. No cytotoxic effect was found for Ti implants treated with 7-DHC and UV-irradiated. Moreover, Ti implants treated with 7-DHC and UV-irradiated for 15min showed increased 25-D(3) production, together with increased ALP activity and calcium content. Interestingly, Rankl gene expression was significantly reduced in osteoblasts cultured on 7-DHC-coated Ti surfaces when UV-irradiated for 15 and 30min to 33.56±15.28% and 28.21±4.40%, respectively, compared with the control. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that UV-activated 7-DHC is a biocompatible coating of Ti implants, which allows the osteoblastic cells to produce themselves active vitamin D, with demonstrated positive effects on osteoblast differentiation in vitro.

Vitamin D and bone

All cells comprising the skeleton-chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts-contain both the vitamin D receptor and the enzyme CYP27B1 required for producing the active metabolite of vitamin D, 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D. Direct effects of 25 hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D on these bone cells have been demonstrated. However, the major skeletal manifestations of vitamin D deficiency or mutations in the vitamin D receptor and CYP27B1, namely rickets and osteomalacia, can be corrected by increasing the intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate, indicating the importance of indirect effects. On the other hand, these dietary manipulations do not reverse defects in osteoblast or osteoclast function that lead to osteopenic bone. This review discusses the relative importance of the direct versus indirect actions of vitamin D on bone, and provides guidelines for the clinical use of vitamin D to prevent/treat bone loss and fractures.

VDR and CYP27B1 are expressed in C2C12 cells and regenerating skeletal muscle: potential role in suppression of myoblast proliferation

1α,25(OH)(2)D(3), the active form of vitamin D(3), has been reported to regulate the cell biology of skeletal muscle. However, there has been some controversy about the expression of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and thus the potential role of vitamin D(3) in skeletal muscle. In this study, we isolated and sequenced the full-length Vdr and Cyp27b1 transcripts in C2C12 myoblasts and myotubes. Western blots and immunocytochemistry confirmed protein expression in both myoblasts and myotubes clearly demonstrating that C2C12 cells express VDR and CYP27B1. To determine the vitamin D(3) action, we found that C2C12 myoblasts treated with either 1α,25(OH)(2)D(3) or 25(OH)D(3) inhibited cell proliferation and this was associated with increased Vdr expression. The observation that treatment of C2C12 myoblasts with the inactive form of vitamin D(3), [25(OH)D(3)], inhibited proliferation suggested that CYP27B1 was functionally active. We used small interfering RNA to knock down Cyp27b1 in myoblasts, and cells were treated with 25(OH)D(3). The growth-suppressive effects of 25(OH)D(3) were abolished, suggesting that CYP27B1 in myoblasts is necessary for the ability of 25(OH)D(3) to affect cell proliferation. Finally, we analyzed expression of VDR and CYP27B1 in regenerating skeletal muscle in vivo. We found that expression of VDR and CYP27B1 increased significantly at day 7 of regeneration, and these results confirm the expression of Vdr and Cyp27b1 in vivo and suggest a potential role for vitamin D(3) in skeletal muscle regeneration following injury.

Vitamin D actions to regulate calcium and skeletal homeostasis

The endocrine action of plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D plays a key role in the regulation of plasma calcium and phosphate homeostasis with activities on the intestine, kidney and bone. A current, controversial question is whether vitamin D exerts direct actions on bone cells to regulate bone mineral homeostasis. Results from clinical, rodent model and in vitro studies on human bone cells provide an impressive body of data to support this proposal particularly at the level of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D status. Each of the major bone cell types is capable of metabolising vitamin D to the active metabolite, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. Thus under conditions when bone tissue synthesis of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D is optimal, vitamin D activity enhances bone mineral status. Dietary calcium and phosphate intakes are the critical environmental cues together with vitamin D status to determine whether 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D exerts an anabolic or catabolic action on bone mineral status.

Vitamin D metabolism within bone cells: effects on bone structure and strength

The endocrine activity of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)(2)D(3)) contributes to maintaining plasma calcium and phosphate homeostasis through actions on the intestine, kidney and bone. A significant body of evidence has been published over the last 10 years indicating that all major bone cells have the capacity to metabolise 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D(3)) to 1,25(OH)(2)D(3), which in turn exerts autocrine/paracrine actions to regulate bone cell proliferation and maturation as well as bone mineralisation and resorption. In vivo and in vitro studies indicate that these autocrine/paracrine activities of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) in bone tissue contribute to maintaining bone mineral homeostasis and enhancing skeletal health.

Systematic characterisation of the rat and human CYP24A1 promoter

The biologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25D) ligands VDR (vitamin D receptor) and binds to the vitamin D response element (VDRE) located within target genes to regulate their transcription. Previously we showed that 1,25D-mediated rat CYP24A1 induction via the two critical VDREs is dependent on a short stretch of nucleotides called vitamin D stimulating element (VSE), located approximately 30bp upstream of VDRE-1 in the rat CYP24A1 promoter. We have now undertaken systematic analysis of the human CYP24A1 and rat CYP24A1 promoters to determine if the VSE is present in the human promoter. Using electrophoretic mobility shift and dual-luciferase reporter assays, we show that the VSE is absent in the human CYP24A1 promoter. In addition, we show that 1,25D-mediated induction of human CYP24A1 is dependant upon a promoter region spanning nucleotides -470 to -392 of the human CYP24A1 promoter.

Bone CYP27B1 gene expression is increased with high dietary calcium and in mineralising osteoblasts

Although the regulation of renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1) is reasonably well understood, the same cannot be said about the regulation of bone CYP27B1 expression. We have compared the regulation of kidney and bone CYP27B1 expression with modulation of dietary vitamin D and calcium levels. Vitamin D-deplete and vitamin D-replete female Sprague-Dawley rats were fed either 1% Ca (HC) or 0.1% Ca (LC) diets from 6 months of age. At 9 months of age, animals were killed for mRNA analyses from kidney and bone by real-time RT-PCR. Additionally, primary bone cells were cultured from pCYP27B1-Luc reporter mice in pro-osteogenic media over 15 days and analysed for mRNA for CYP27B1 and other osteogenic markers. In vivo expression of bone CYP27B1 mRNA was independent of changes to kidney CYP27B1 levels with both serum 1,25D and PTH as negative determinants of bone CYP27B1 mRNA levels. Bone cells in pro-mineralising conditions significantly increased CYP27B1 promoter activity over 15 days (P<0.001) which preceded marked increases in alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin and vitamin D receptor mRNA expression and mineral deposition. These findings confirm that the regulation of bone CYP27B1 is unique from that in the kidney, and may play an important role in bone formation.

Autocrine/paracrine action of vitamin D on FGF23 expression in cultured rat osteoblasts

To explore the local mechanisms of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 23 regulations, we examined the FGF23 expression patterns in an osteoblast culture model. The characteristics of cultured rat calvaria osteoblasts in half-confluence, confluence, osteoid deposition, and osteoid mineralization stages might reflect the proliferation, differentiation, maturation, and matrix mineralization stages, respectively. Compared with proliferating cells in half-confluence, FGF23 expression was upregulated by 7.5-fold at the mRNA level and 126% at the protein level in confluent differentiated cells as determined by real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Interestingly, mRNA levels of CYP27B1 (the gene coding for 1alpha-hydroxylase enzyme which catalyses the conversion of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, 1alpha,25[OH]2D, from its inactive form, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol, 25[OH]D) and CYP24A (the gene coding for 24-hydroxylase, a target gene of 1alpha,25[OH]2D) were significantly increased by twofold and 34-fold, respectively, in differentiated osteoblasts compared with proliferating cells. We next examined if the local production of 1alpha,25(OH)2D might contribute to the FGF23 upregulation. We cultured osteoblasts in serum-free medium with or without 25-(OH)D (the substrate of 1alpha-hydroxylase). FGF23 mRNA levels were increased in proliferating cells (16-fold) and in differentiated cells (28-fold) by the physiological dose of 25-(OH)D3 treatment. CYP27B1 was slightly but significantly upregulated and CYP24A was increased by 1,700-fold and 800-fold, respectively, in transcriptional levels. Because FGF23 was upregulated in confluent osteoblasts regardless of the presence or absence of 25-(OH)D in serum-free medium, we further examined the possible impact of cell communication on FGF23 expression. We treated osteoblasts with carbenoxolone, a gap junction Cx43 blocker in serum-free medium. The FGF23 mRNA level was reduced by 50% in confluent differentiated cells and slightly but not significantly reduced in half-confluent cells by carbenoxolone treatments. The results suggested that upregulation of FGF23 in differentiated osteoblast appeared to be due to increased autocrine/paracrine action of osteoblast-derived 1alpha,25(OH)2D and increased cell communication, which were identified in cultured rat calvaria osteoblasts. These results indicate that FGF23 expression was stimulated not only by circulating calcitriol but also by locally produced 1alpha,25(OH)2D. The local mechanisms of FGF23 expression remain to be characterized.

Regulation of the 5'-flanking region of the human CYP27B1 gene in osteoblast cells

Synthesis of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25(OH)(2)D(3)) is catalysed by the enzyme 25-hydroxyvitamin D(3)-1alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1). Regulation of CYP27B1 gene expression is poorly understood, particularly in non-renal tissues including bone where 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) is hypothesised to serve autocrine/paracrine roles. Transient transfection of ROS 17/2.8 osteoblast-like cells with reporter gene constructs containing deletions of the 5'-flanking region of the human CYP27B1 gene revealed a proximal promoter, enhancer region and strong upstream repressive region. Putative CCAAT and GC boxes, as well as Ets protein binding sites were shown to contribute to promoter and enhancer activities respectively in common with kidney and prostate cells. Inhibition of basal expression was largely attributed to a palindrome 5'-GTCTCAGAC-3' (-1015/-1007bp) that contains two putative canonical Smad binding elements. We conclude that repression of CYP27B1 gene expression may be a common event but the novel inhibitory elements we have identified may be unique to osteoblasts.

Vitamin D and calcium insufficiency-related chronic diseases: an emerging world-wide public health problem

Vitamin D and calcium insufficiencies are risk factors for multiple chronic diseases. Data from 46 recent studies from Europe, North America, South-East Asia and the South Pacific area clearly indicate that a low vitamin D status and inadequate calcium nutrition are highly prevalent in the general population (30–80%), affecting both genders. The extent of insufficiencies is particularly high in older populations, and in some geographical areas, also in children and in young women of child-bearing age, in ethnic minorities and immigrants, as well as in people of low socio-economic status. Enrichment of cereal grain products with vitamin D and calcium would be a viable approach to increase consumption and improve health outcomes in the general population worldwide.

Vitamin D and calcium insufficiency-related chronic diseases: molecular and cellular pathophysiology

A compromised vitamin D status, characterized by low 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-(OH)D) serum levels, and a nutritional calcium deficit are widely encountered in European and North American countries, independent of age or gender. Both conditions are linked to the pathogenesis of many degenerative, malignant, inflammatory and metabolic diseases. Studies on tissue-specific expression and activity of vitamin D metabolizing enzymes, 25-(OH)D-1 alpha-hydroxylase and 25-(OH)D-24-hydroxylase, and of the extracellular calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) have led to the understanding of how, in non-renal tissues and cellular systems, locally produced 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25-(OH)(2)D(3)) and extracellular Ca(2+) act jointly as key regulators of cellular proliferation, differentiation and function. Impairment of cooperative signalling from the 1,25-(OH)(2)D(3)-activated vitamin D receptor (VDR) and from the CaR in vitamin D and calcium insufficiency causes cellular dysfunction in many organs and biological systems, and, therefore, increases the risk of diseases, particularly of osteoporosis, colorectal and breast cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus type I, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus type II, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Understanding the underlying molecular and cellular processes provides a rationale for advocating adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium in all populations, thereby preventing many chronic diseases worldwide.

Calcium malabsorption does not cause secondary hyperparathyroidism

We challenge the widespread assumption that malabsorption of calcium per se causes secondary hyperparathyroidism. Serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) does not rise at the menopause despite the fall in calcium absorption, nor is it raised in osteoporotic women with vertebral fractures despite their low calcium absorption. The age-related rise in serum PTH can be accounted for by the age-related fall in serum 25(OH)D and/or decline in renal function with consequent loss of the calcemic action of vitamin D on bone. The reference interval for serum PTH is established in the fasting state when it is at the top of its diurnal cycle and is maintaining serum ionized calcium at the expense of bone to meet the calcium being lost through skin, bowel, and kidneys. There is no evidence that the fasting PTH is influenced by the previous day's intake or absorption of calcium, although it can be lowered by a large evening calcium supplement. Malabsorption of calcium-like dietary calcium deficiency-is a risk factor for osteoporosis because it reduces or prevents the normal food-related daytime fall in PTH and bone resorption, not because it causes secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Ageing and vitamin D deficiency: effects on calcium homeostasis and considerations for vitamin D supplementation

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble, seco-steroid hormone. In man, the vitamin D receptor is expressed in almost all tissues, enabling effects in multiple systems of the human body. These effects can be endocrine, paracrine and autocrine. The present review summarises the effects of ageing on the vitamin D endocrine system and on Ca homeostasis. Furthermore, consequences for vitamin D supplementation are discussed.

Regulation of vitamin D homeostasis: implications for the immune system

Vitamin D homeostasis in the immune system is the focus of this review. The production of both the activating (25- and 1alpha-hydroxylase) and the metabolizing (24-hydroxylase) enzymes by cells of the immune system itself, indicates that 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) can be produced locally in immune reaction sites. Moreover, the strict regulation of these enzymes by immune signals is highly suggestive for an autocrine/paracrine role in the immune system, and opens new treatment possibilities.

Vitamin D depletion induces RANKL-mediated osteoclastogenesis and bone loss in a rodent model

The association between increased risk of hip fracture and low vitamin D status has long been recognized. However, the level of vitamin D required to maintain bone strength is controversial. We used a rodent model of vitamin D depletion to quantify the 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25D) levels required for normal mineralization. Six groups of 10-wk-old male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 42) were fed a diet containing 0.4% calcium and various levels of dietary vitamin D(3) for 4 mo to achieve stable mean serum 25D levels ranging between 10 and 115 nM. At 7 mo of age, animals were killed, and the histomorphometry of distal and proximal femora and L(2) vertebra was analyzed. Total RNA was extracted from whole femora for real-time RT-PCR analyses. In the distal femoral metaphysis, trabecular bone mineral volume (BV/TV) showed a significant positive association with circulating 25D levels (r(2) = 0.42, p < 0.01) in the animals with serum 25D levels between 20 and 115 nM. Osteoclast surface (Oc.S) levels were positively associated with RANKL:OPG mRNA ratio, higher in groups with lower serum 25D levels, and were independent of serum 1,25D levels. Serum 25D levels <80 nM gave rise to osteopenia as a result of increased osteoclastogenesis, suggesting that levels of 25D >80 nM are needed for optimal bone volume. These data indicate that serum 25D levels are a major determinant of osteoclastogenesis and bone mineral volume and are consistent with the levels of 25D recommended to reduce the risk of fracture in humans.

CYP24 promoter activity is affected by mechanical stress and mitogen-activated protein kinase in MG63 osteoblast-like cells

PURPOSE

For bone homeostasis, vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of calcium. The enzyme CYP24 inactivates vitamin D and is involved in its regulation. However, the mechanism of expression of CYP24 in osteoblastic cells under mechanical stress is not clear. In this study we investigated CYP24 promoter activity in stretched osteoblastic cells and the participation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in expression of CYP24.

METHODS

MG63 osteoblastic cells were cultured on silicon-bottomed plates. Cells were transfected with a reporter gene that contained a CYP24 promoter. After activated vitamin D, 1,25(OH)2D3, was added or not added, cells were stretched. Stretched and non-stretched cells were investigated by luciferase dual assay. Cells were also investigated similarly using medium with an ERK1/2 inhibitor or p38 inhibitor.

RESULTS

The CYP24 promoter was activated by 1,25(OH)2D3 and the promoter activity decreased in stretched cells. Inhibitor of MAPK decreased CYP24 promoter activity. However, CYP24 promoter activity decreased with mechanical stress after addition of p38 inhibitor, while it did not decrease with mechanical stress after addition of ERK1/2 inhibitor. The CYP24 promoter was not activated without 1,25(OH)2D3 in any case.

CONCLUSION

Mechanical stress and MAPK control CYP24 promoter activity in the presence of Vitamin D in MG63 osteoblast-like cells.

Reduction of the vitamin D hormonal system in kidney disease is associated with increased renal inflammation

To examine any potential role for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) in inflammation associated with chronic kidney disease we measured vitamin D metabolites, markers of inflammation and gene expression in 174 patients with a variety of kidney diseases. Urinary MCP-1 protein and renal macrophage infiltration were each significantly but inversely correlated with serum 1,25(OH)2D levels. Logistic regression analysis with urinary MCP-1 as binary outcome showed that a 10-unit increase in serum 1,25(OH)2D or 25OHD resulted in lower renal inflammation. Analysis of 111 renal biopsies found that renal injury was not associated with a compensatory increase in mRNA for the vitamin D-activating enzyme 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1), its catabolic counterpart 24-hydroxylase, or the vitamin D receptor. There was, however, a significant association between tissue MCP-1 and CYP27B1. Patients with acute renal inflammation had a significant increase in urinary and tissue MCP-1, macrophage infiltration, and macrophage and renal epithelial CYP27B1 expression but significantly lower levels of serum 1,25(OH)2D in comparison to patients with chronic ischemic disease despite similar levels of renal damage. In vitro, 1,25(OH)2D attenuated TNFalpha-induced MCP-1 expression by human proximal tubule cells. Our study indicates that renal inflammation is associated with decreased serum vitamin D metabolites and involves activation of the paracrine/autocrine vitamin D system.

The skeleton as an intracrine organ for vitamin D metabolism

The endocrine hormone, 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25D) is an important regulator of calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. In this context, 1,25D is generally recognized as necessary for the maintenance of a healthy skeleton through its actions on the small intestine. In this review, we highlight the direct effects of 1,25D on the constituent cells of the bone, actions that are independent of effects on the intestine and kidney. We also consider the evidence that 25D levels, not 1,25D levels, correlate best with parameters of bone health, and that the bone itself is a site of metabolic conversion of 25D into 1,25D, by virtue of its expression of the 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1alpha-hydroxylase, CYP27B1. We review the evidence that at least osteoblasts and chondrocytes, and possibly also bone resorbing osteoclasts, are capable of such metabolic conversion, and therefore that these cells likely participate in autocrine and paracrine loops of vitamin D metabolism. We conclude that the skeleton is an intracrine organ for vitamin D metabolism, challenging the long-held notion that 1,25D is solely an endocrine hormone.

Specific regulation of CYP27B1 and VDR in proximal versus distal renal cells

In this study, we utilized murine renal proximal (MPCT-G) and distal (DKC-8) tubular epithelial cell lines to compare the gene expressions and promoter activities of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) receptor (VDR) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1) in response to 50 nM of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and changes in extracellular calcium (Ca(2+)) concentration. In MPCT-G cells, VDR gene expression was suppressed by PTH, whereas CYP27B1 gene expression was elevated in response to PTH. In DKC-8 cells, treatment of PTH significantly increased the relative gene expression of VDR by 6.5-fold while CYP27B1 gene expression was unchanged. High Ca(2+) exposure stimulated VDR gene expression and repressed CYP27B1 gene expression in both dose and time-dependent fashion in MPCT-G but not DKC-8 cells. The analysis of promoter activities and VDR protein levels corresponded with the gene expression data. We conclude that PTH-mediated decrease in VDR and increase in renal CYP27B1 is proximal cell-specific.

Co-expression of CYP27B1 enzyme with the 1.5kb CYP27B1 promoter-luciferase transgene in the mouse

The renal enzyme 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1), responsible for the synthesis of circulating. 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25D), is also expressed in a number of non-renal tissues. The regulation of CYP27B1 expression by the short flanking promoter outside the kidney is, however, largely unknown. We have used a transgenic mice expressing the 1.5kb promoter of the human CYP27B1 gene fused to the firefly luciferase gene in order to investigate tissue-specific CYP27B1 expression. These transgenic animals demonstrated co-localised luciferase and endogenous CYP27B1 expression in kidney proximal convoluted tubular cells. Strong co-expression of luciferase and CYP27B1 also occurred in neurons and Purkinje cells of the cerebellum and in Leydig and Sertoli cells of the testes. Other tissues to exhibit CYP27B1-promoter directed luciferase activity included lung, prostate, trabecular bone and jejunum as well as the choroid epithelium. The tissue specific changes in luciferase activity were age-related. These findings demonstrate that the proximal 1.5kb 5' flanking region of the CYP27B1 gene directs the expression of CYP27B1 in a number of known and novel tissues in a specific manner.

Metabolism of vitamin D3 in human osteoblasts: evidence for autocrine and paracrine activities of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3

Circulating 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25D) derives from renal conversion of 25-hydroxyvitamin D(3) (25D), by the 25D 1 alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1). Blood 25D levels, but not 1,25D levels, are the best indicator of vitamin D status and predict fracture risk in the elderly. We examined the extent to which osteoblasts can metabolize 25D. Well-characterized human primary osteoblasts and osteosarcoma (OS) cell lines were examined for the expression and regulation of genes associated with vitamin D metabolism, using real-time PCR. Primary osteoblasts and OS cell lines were found to express CYP27B1 mRNA and secreted detectable 1,25D in response to 25D. Of the OS cell lines tested, HOS expressed the most CYP27B1 mRNA and secreted the highest levels of 1,25D. All osteoblastic cells examined up-regulated expression of the catabolic regulator of 1,25D, the 25-hydroxyvitamin D-24-hydroxylase (CYP24), when incubated with either 1,25D or 25D. Exposure to physiological levels of 25D resulted in up-regulated transcription of the 1,25D responsive genes, osteocalcin (OCN), osteopontin (OPN) and RANKL. Specific knockdown of CYP27B1 in HOS cells using siRNA resulted in up to 80% reduction in both 1,25D secretion and the transcription of OCN and CYP24, strongly implying that the 25D effect in osteoblasts is preceded by conversion to 1,25D. Incubation with 25D, like 1,25D, inhibited primary osteoblast proliferation and promoted in vitro mineralization. Finally, we detected expression by osteoblasts of receptors for vitamin D binding protein (DBP), cubilin and megalin, suggesting that osteoblasts are able to internalize DBP-25D complexes in vivo. Together, our results suggest that autocrine, and perhaps paracrine, pathways of vitamin D(3) metabolism may regulate key osteoblast functions independently of circulating, kidney derived 1,25D. Our results are therefore consistent with the reported benefits of maintaining a healthy vitamin D status in the elderly to reduce the risk of fractures.

Regulation of the CYP27B1 5'-flanking region by transforming growth factor-beta in ROS 17/2.8 osteoblast-like cells

The biologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25(OH)(2)D(3)), regulates osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. Production of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) is catalysed by the enzyme 25-hydroxyvitamin D(3)-1alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1). Though highly expressed in the kidney, the CYP27B1 gene is also expressed in non-renal tissues including bone. It is hypothesised that local production of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) by osteoblasts plays an autocrine or paracrine role. The aim of this study was to investigate what factors regulate expression of the CYP27B1 gene in osteoblast cells. ROS 17/2.8 osteoblast cells were transiently transfected with plasmid constructs containing the 5'-flanking sequence of the human CYP27B1 gene fused to a luciferase reporter gene. Cells were treated with either parathyroid hormone (PTH), 1,25(OH)(2)D(3), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) or insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and luciferase activity was measured 24h later. The results showed that 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) did not alter expression of the reporter construct, however treatment with PTH, IGF-1 and TGF-beta decreased expression by 18, 53 and 58% respectively. The repressive action of TGF-beta was isolated to the region between -531 and -305bp. These data suggest that expression of the 5'-flanking region for the CYP27B1 gene in osteoblast cells may be regulated differently to that previously described in kidney cells.

25-Hydroxyvitamin D requirement for maintaining skeletal health utilising a Sprague-Dawley rat model

To study the role of vitamin D to optimise bone architecture, we have developed an animal model to investigate the effects of frank vitamin D-deficiency as well as graded depletion of circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D(3) (25D) levels on the skeleton. Rats fed on dietary vitamin D levels from 0 to 500 ng/day achieved diet-dependent circulating levels of 25D ranging from 11 to 115 nmol/L. Levels of serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) (1,25D) increased as dietary vitamin D increased between 0 and 200 ng/day at which point a maximum level was achieved and retained with higher vitamin D intakes. The renal levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1) mRNA were highest in animal groups fed on vitamin D between 0 and 300 ng/day. In contrast, renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D 24-hydroxylase (CYP24) mRNA levels increased as dietary vitamin D increased achieving maximum levels in animals receiving 500 ng vitamin D/day. This animal model of vitamin D depletion is suitable to provide invaluable information on the serum levels of 25D and dietary calcium intake necessary for optimal bone structure. Such information is essential for developing nutritional recommendations to reduce the incidence of osteoporotic hip fractures.

RNAi-mediated silencing of CYP27B1 abolishes 1,25(OH)2D3 synthesis and reduces osteocalcin and CYP24 mRNA expression in human osteosarcoma (HOS) cells

Although local synthesis of 1,25D has been postulated to regulate parameters of cell growth and differentiation in non-renal cells, the physiological role of 1,25D production in bone cells remains unclear. We used the technique of RNA interference to inhibit the mRNA encoding the enzyme responsible for 1,25D synthesis, 25-hydroxyvitamin D 1alpha-hydroxylase (CYP27B1). Human osteosarcoma (HOS) cells were transfected with siRNA for CYP27B1 or non-silencing RNA before being treated with 25D for 48h under normal growth conditions. De novo synthesis of 1,25D was measured in the media as well as mRNA levels for CYP27B1, osteocalcin (OCN) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D 24-hydroxylase (CYP24). We demonstrated that HOS cells express CYP27B1 mRNA, metabolize 25D and secrete detectable levels of de novo synthesized 1,25D. CYP27B1 mRNA silencing by RNAi, resulted in the suppression of 1,25D production and subsequent reduction of OCN and CYP24 mRNA expression. Our findings suggest that local 1,25D synthesis has paracrine effects in the bone microenvironment implying that vitamin D metabolism in human osteoblasts represents a physiologically important pathway, possibly regulating the maturation of osteoblasts.

Determination of Vitamin D-dependent calcium absorption by 45Ca gavage in the rat

Precise determination of Vitamin D-dependent intestinal calcium absorption in longitudinal studies is problematic. We have assessed Vitamin D-dependent intestinal calcium absorption by (45)Ca gavage. Rats were gavaged with a 1mL solution containing (45)Ca (CaCl(2), 9.3MBq/mL) maintained at 37 degrees C. Total Ca concentration of the gavage fluid was optimised by comparing the absorption curves for fluids made up to 0.025, 2.025, 4.025 and 40.025 mmol/L with (40)CaCl(2). The effect of varying dietary Ca on fractional Ca absorption was determined in rats fed semi-synthetic diets containing either 0.05%, 0.2%, 0.4% or 1.0% Ca for 50 days. Serum 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25D) was determined by radioimmunoassay. Total gavage Ca of 0.025 mmol/L achieved the highest peak fractional absorption and was adopted for all future experiments. Fifty days after allocation to the diets both fractional Ca absorption and 1,25D were highest in rats fed 0.05% Ca and lowest in those fed 1.0% Ca (absorption, P<0.05 and 1,25D, P<0.05). There was a strong logarithmic relationship between 1,25D and fractional Ca absorption (R(2) 0.69, P<0.001). Weekly repetition of the procedure did not cause a fall in haematocrit over 7 weeks. Radiocalcium ((45)Ca) absorption by gavage provides a simple measure of Vitamin D-dependent Ca absorption for repetitive use in longitudinal studies.