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Peng C, Li J, Chen Y, Zhang HR, Li TX, Jiang YH, Yang XY, Zhao Y. PCSK9 aggravated carotid artery stenosis in ApoE -/- mice by promoting the expression of tissue factors in endothelial cells via the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 225:116314. [PMID: 38797271 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is the most relevant cause of carotid artery stenosis. Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) play a significant role in the development of atherosclerosis. In this chronic inflammatory environment, we aimed to investigate whether PCSK9 could mitigate atherosclerosis progression by reducing tissue factor expression in ECs via in vivo and in vitro assays. In vivo, we investigated the effect of PCSK9 inhibition on preventing atherosclerotic lesion formation in ApoE-/- mice fed a western diet. The results showed that inhibiting PCSK9 could significantly downregulate the protein expression of tissue factor (TF) in ECs to reduce the area of atherosclerotic plaques. In vitro, we incubated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We found that LPS-induced TF elevation was suppressed by a PCSK9 inhibitor at both the mRNA and protein levels and that the TLR4/NF-κB pathway was also suppressed by a PCSK9 inhibitor. With respect to plasma samples from patients with carotid artery stenosis, we also demonstrated that the expression of TF was positively correlated with that of PCSK9. Thus, in addition to regulating lipid metabolism, the regulation of endothelial cell TF expression through the TLR4/NF-κB pathway may be a potential mechanism of PCSK9 in promoting atherosclerotic carotid stenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Heng-Rui Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Tian-Xing Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Yu-Hang Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Xin-Yu Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, PR China.
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2
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Yaman AE, Ceylan US. Effects of Vitamin D Levels on Long-Term Coronary Events in Patients with Proven Coronary Artery Disease: Six-Year Follow-Up. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6835. [PMID: 37959300 PMCID: PMC10650784 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Although some clinical studies have claimed that low-dose vitamin D (Vit-D) increases the risk of long-term cardiac events, in others, no association was found. To better understand the impact of Vit-D levels on long-term cardiac events in coronary artery disease patients, this study was designed. There were 408 patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The patients were separated into three groups based on their Vit-D levels: group 1 had levels below 10 ng/mL, group 2 had levels between 10 and 20, and group 3 had levels above 20 ng/mL. Six years were spent monitoring the patients for non-fatal MI, death, vascular revascularization, and stable course data. Mortality was found to be similar between groups (group 1: 24.5%; group 2: 13.8%; group 3: 17.4%; p > 0.05). In group 3, 47.8% of the patients did not experience any cardiac event, while 28.7% in group 2 and 27.6% in group 1 did not experience any cardiac event, and these values were found to be significant in favor of group 3 (p = 0.006). Group 3 was found to have considerably lower rates of non-ST-elevated myocardial infarction (non-STEMI) and unstable angina (UA) than the other groups did (group 1: 49%; group 2: 38%; group 3: 27%; p = 0.001). In conclusion, although vitamin D deficiency does not accompany an increase in mortality, it is associated with an increase in non-STEMI and UA in patients who have previously been diagnosed with CAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysun Erdem Yaman
- Siyami Ersek Thoracic Surgery Research and Training Hospital, Department of Cardiology, 34668 Istanbul, Turkey
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3
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Cimmino G, Natale F, Alfieri R, Cante L, Covino S, Franzese R, Limatola M, Marotta L, Molinari R, Mollo N, Loffredo FS, Golino P. Non-Conventional Risk Factors: "Fact" or "Fake" in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention? Biomedicines 2023; 11:2353. [PMID: 37760794 PMCID: PMC10525401 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as arterial hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, etc., still represent the main cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. They significantly modify the patients' quality of life with a tremendous economic impact. It is well established that cardiovascular risk factors increase the probability of fatal and non-fatal cardiac events. These risk factors are classified into modifiable (smoking, arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, low HDL cholesterol, diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, high-fat and high-calorie diet, reduced physical activity) and non-modifiable (sex, age, family history, of previous cardiovascular disease). Hence, CVD prevention is based on early identification and management of modifiable risk factors whose impact on the CV outcome is now performed by the use of CV risk assessment models, such as the Framingham Risk Score, Pooled Cohort Equations, or the SCORE2. However, in recent years, emerging, non-traditional factors (metabolic and non-metabolic) seem to significantly affect this assessment. In this article, we aim at defining these emerging factors and describe the potential mechanisms by which they might contribute to the development of CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Cimmino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Natale
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Alfieri
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Cante
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Covino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Franzese
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Mirella Limatola
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Marotta
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Molinari
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Noemi Mollo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco S Loffredo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Golino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80131 Naples, Italy (F.S.L.)
- Vanvitelli Cardiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy
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4
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Gotelli E, Soldano S, Hysa E, Casabella A, Cere A, Pizzorni C, Paolino S, Sulli A, Smith V, Cutolo M. Understanding the Immune-Endocrine Effects of Vitamin D in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Role in Protecting against Neurodamage. Neuroimmunomodulation 2023; 30:185-195. [PMID: 37557090 PMCID: PMC10614436 DOI: 10.1159/000533286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcitriol and hydroxyderivatives of lumisterol and tachisterol are secosteroid hormones with immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, several studies have correlated deficient serum concentrations of vitamin D3 (calcifediol) with increased severity of the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among systemic complications, subjective (anosmia, ageusia, depression, dizziness) and objective (ischemic stroke, meningoencephalitis, myelitis, seizures, Guillain-Barré syndrome) neurological symptoms have been reported in up to 80% of severe COVID-19 patients. In this narrative review, we will resume the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the mechanisms of acute and chronic neurological damage. SARS-CoV-2 can disrupt the integrity of the endothelial cells of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to enter the nervous central system. Invasion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and polarization of astrocytes and microglia cells always in a pro-inflammatory sense together with the pro-coagulative phenotype of cerebral endothelial cells in response to both SARS-CoV-2 and immune cells invasion (immunothrombosis) are the major drivers of neurodamage. Calcitriol and hydroxyderivatives of lumisterol and tachisterol could play an adjuvant role in neuroprotection through mitigation of neuroinflammation and protection of endothelial integrity of the BBB. Dedicated studies on this topic are currently lacking and are desirable to confirm the link between vitamin D3 and neuroprotection in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Gotelli
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Stefano Soldano
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Elvis Hysa
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Casabella
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Cere
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Carmen Pizzorni
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Sabrina Paolino
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alberto Sulli
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Rheumatology, Ghent University Hospital, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- Unit for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Inflammation Research Center, Flemish Institute for Biotechnology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Specialties, University of Genova, IRCCS San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy
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Wu Z, Hu H, Wang C, Rao J, Wu J, Shi Y, Fu Y, Cheng X, Li P. Sleep Patterns Modify the Association between Vitamin D Status and Coronary Heart Disease: Results from NHANES 2005-2008. J Nutr 2023; 153:1398-1406. [PMID: 36863481 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2022.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although an increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) has been reported in individuals with low vitamin D status, this remains controversial. Growing evidence suggests that sleep behaviors may influence vitamin D endocrine functions. OBJECTIVES We explored the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [[25(OH)D] concentrations and CHD and whether sleep behaviors modify this relationship. METHODS A cross-sectional analysis of 7511 adults aged ≥20 y in 2005-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) that included serum 25(OH)D concentrations and provided information on sleep behaviors and history of CHD was performed. Logistic regression models were used to assess the association between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and CHD, whereas stratified analyses and multiplicative interaction tests were used to evaluate the modification effect of overall sleep patterns and each sleep factor on this relationship. The overall sleep patterns integrated 4 sleep behaviors (sleep duration, snoring, insomnia, and daytime sleepiness) in the form of healthy sleep score. RESULTS Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were inversely associated with risk of CHD (P < 0.01). Hypovitaminosis D [serum 25(OH)D <50nmol/L] was associated with a 71% increased risk of CHD (OR: 1.71; 95% CI: 1.28, 2.28; P < 0.01) compared with that in participants with sufficient vitamin D [serum 25(OH)D ≥75nmol/L], and the association was more evident and stable among participants with poor sleep patterns (P-interaction < 0.01). Among the individual sleep behaviors, sleep duration had the strongest interaction with 25(OH)D (P-interaction < 0.05). The association between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and risk of CHD was more pronounced in participants with sleep duration <7 h/d or >8 h/d compared with those with sleep duration 7-8 h/d. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the influence of lifestyle-related behavioral risk factors, such as sleep behaviors (especially sleep duration), need to be considered when evaluating the association between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and CHD as well as the clinical benefits of vitamin D supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuxiang Wu
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Medical Research Center, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Huan Hu
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Medical Research Center, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chenxi Wang
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Medical Research Center, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jingan Rao
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Medical Research Center, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ji Wu
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Medical Research Center, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yumeng Shi
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Medical Research Center, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yang Fu
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Medical Research Center, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaoshu Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Medical Research Center, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Jiangxi Provincial Cardiovascular Disease Clinical Medical Research Center, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.
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Song YS, Jamali N, Sorenson CM, Sheibani N. Vitamin D Receptor Expression Limits the Angiogenic and Inflammatory Properties of Retinal Endothelial Cells. Cells 2023; 12:335. [PMID: 36672270 PMCID: PMC9856450 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The integrity of retinal endothelial cell (EC) is essential for establishing and maintaining the retinal blood barrier to ensure proper vision. Vitamin D is a hormone with known protective roles in EC function. The majority of vitamin D action is mediated through the vitamin D receptor (VDR). VDR is a nuclear receptor whose engagement by vitamin D impacts the expression of many genes with important roles in regulation of angiogenesis and inflammation. Although many studies have investigated vitamin D-VDR action in cardiovascular protection and tumor angiogenesis, its impact on retinal EC function and regulation of ocular angiogenesis and inflammation is exceedingly limited. We previously showed calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, is a potent inhibitor of retinal neovascularization in vivo and retinal EC capillary morphogenesis in vitro. Here, using retinal EC prepared from wild-type (Vdr+/+) and VDR-deficient (Vdr-/-) mice, we show that retinal EC express VDR and its expression is induced by calcitriol. The lack of VDR expression had a significant impact on endothelial cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Vdr-/- retinal EC proliferated at a slower rate and were more adherent and less migratory. They also exhibited increased expression levels of inflammatory markers driven in part by sustained activation of STAT1 and NF-κB pathways and were more sensitive to oxidative challenge. These changes were attributed, in part, to down-regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthetase, enhanced hepcidin expression, and increased intracellular iron levels. Taken together, our results indicate that VDR expression plays a fundamental role in maintaining the proper angiogenic and inflammatory state of retinal EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Seok Song
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Nasim Jamali
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Christine M. Sorenson
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Nader Sheibani
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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Cimmino G, Conte S, Marra L, Morello A, Morello M, De Rosa G, Pepe M, Sugraliyev A, Golino P, Cirillo P. Uric Acid Induces a Proatherothrombotic Phenotype in Human Endothelial Cells by Imbalancing the Tissue Factor/Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor Pathway. Thromb Haemost 2023; 123:64-75. [PMID: 36126947 DOI: 10.1055/a-1947-7716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several evidence show that elevated plasma levels of uric acid (UA) are associated with the increased risk of developing atherothrombotic cardiovascular events. Hyperuricemia is a risk factor for endothelial dysfunction (ED). ED is involved in the pathophysiology of atherothrombosis since dysfunctional cells lose their physiological, antithrombotic properties. We have investigated whether UA might promote ED by modulating the tissue factor (TF)/TF pathway inhibitor (TFPI) balance by finally changing the antithrombotic characteristics of endothelial cells. METHODS Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were incubated with increasing doses of UA (up to 9 mg/dL). TF gene and protein expressions were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot. Surface expression and procoagulant activity were assessed by FACS (fluorescence activated cell sorting) analysis and coagulation assay. The mRNA and protein levels of TFPI were measured by real-time PCR and Western blot. The roles of inflammasome and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) as possible mechanism(s) of action of the UA on TF/TFPI balance were also investigated. RESULTS UA significantly increased TF gene and protein levels, surface expression, and procoagulant activity. In parallel, TFPI levels were significantly reduced. The NF-κB pathways appeared to be involved in modulating these phenomena. Additionally, inflammasome might also play a role. CONCLUSION The present in vitro study shows that one of the mechanisms by which high levels of UA contribute to ED might be the imbalance between TF/TFPI levels in endothelial cells, shifting them to a nonphysiological, prothrombotic phenotype. These UA effects might hypothetically explain, at least in part, the relationship observed between elevated plasma levels of UA and cardiovascular events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Cimmino
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Conte
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Marra
- SC Cell Biology and Biotherapy, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS, Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Morello
- Biochemical Unit, Azienda Sanitaria Regionale Molise, Antonio Cardarelli Hospital, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Morello
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro De Rosa
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
| | - Martino Pepe
- Cardiovascular Diseases Section, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Akhmetzhan Sugraliyev
- Department of Internal Disease, Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Paolo Golino
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Plinio Cirillo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II," Naples, Italy
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Adlimoghaddam A, Albensi BC, Eiser AR. Neurocovid, Neuroinflammation, and Nuclear Factor-κB: The Role for Micronutrients. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE 2022; 28:916-918. [PMID: 36301557 DOI: 10.1089/jicm.2022.0736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aida Adlimoghaddam
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Benedict C Albensi
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Arnold R Eiser
- Penn Center for Public Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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Zheng M, Gao R. Vitamin D: A Potential Star for Treating Chronic Pancreatitis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:902639. [PMID: 35734414 PMCID: PMC9207250 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.902639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a chronic inflammatory and fibrotic disease of the pancreas. The incidence of CP is increasing worldwide but the effective therapies are lacking. Hence, it is necessary to identify economical and effective agents for the treatment of CP patients. Vitamin D (VD) and its analogues have been confirmed as pleiotropic regulators of cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation and autophagy. Clinical studies show that VD deficiency is prevalent in CP patients. However, the correlation between VD level and the risk of CP remains controversial. VD and its analogues have been demonstrated to inhibit pancreatic fibrosis by suppressing the activation of pancreatic stellate cells and the production of extracellular matrix. Limited clinical trials have shown that the supplement of VD can improve VD deficiency in patients with CP, suggesting a potential therapeutic value of VD in CP. However, the mechanisms by which VD and its analogues inhibit pancreatic fibrosis have not been fully elucidated. We are reviewing the current literature concerning the risk factors for developing CP, prevalence of VD deficiency in CP, mechanisms of VD action in PSC-mediated fibrogenesis during the development of CP and potential therapeutic applications of VD and its analogues in the treatment of CP.
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10
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Gao L, Li L, Hu J, Li G, Zhang Y, Dai X, De Z, Xu F. Metformin inhibits multiple myeloma serum-induced endothelial cell thrombosis by down-regulating miR-532. Ann Vasc Surg 2022; 85:347-357.e2. [PMID: 35561893 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2022.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Thrombotic complications in multiple myeloma (MM) impairs the quality of life of patients. Metformin has a certain effect on anti-thrombosis, but its role and mechanism in MM-induced thrombosis are still uncovered. Therefore, this study evaluated the effect of metformin on MM-induced thrombosis. METHODS Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to normal serum (15%), MM serum (15%), metformin (0.01 mmol/L), or MM serum and metformin simultaneously. The expression of tissue factor (TF) in HUVECs was detected by flow cytometry and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). QRT-PCR was also used to determine the expressions of endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) and miR-532. The generation of thrombin and activated protein C was measured by thrombin generation and protein C activation assays. And EPCR, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway related protein expressions were detected by western blot. RESULT MM serum increased the expressions of TF, EPCR and miR-532, and induced thrombin generation and protein C activation in HUVECs. Based on the MM serum treatment, metformin decreased these expressions and inhibited the thrombin generation and protein C activation in HUVECs. However, miR-532 mimic reversed the effect of metformin and promoted the levels of thrombosis related indicators in HUVECs. Moreover, metformin activated the EPCR, ERK 1/2, p38 MAPK and NF-κB pathways but miR-532 mimic suppressed the activation of pathways. CONCLUSION Metformin played an inhibitory effect on MM serum-induced HUVEC thrombosis, suggesting that metformin could serve as a novel antithrombotic approach for MM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Gao
- Department of Hematology, Karamay Central Hospital
| | - Li Li
- Department of Hematology, Karamay Central Hospital
| | - Jun Hu
- Department of Hematology, Karamay Central Hospital
| | - Guiyuan Li
- Oncology Department, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai, Tongji University
| | - Yizhi Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Karamay Central Hospital
| | - Xiangjun Dai
- Science Education Department, Karamay Central Hospital
| | - Zhenyi De
- Department of Pathology, Karamay Central Hospital
| | - Fenglei Xu
- Department of Neurology, Karamay Central Hospital.
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11
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Gudowska-Sawczuk M, Mroczko B. The Role of Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB) in Development and Treatment of COVID-19: Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095283. [PMID: 35563673 PMCID: PMC9101079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19), a disease that has affected more than 500 million people worldwide since the end of 2019. Due to its high complications and death rates, there is still a need to find the best therapy for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The dysregulation of the inflammatory response in COVID-19 plays a very important role in disease progression. It has been observed that abnormal activity of Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB) is directly associated with, inter alia, increased synthesis of proinflammatory factors. Therefore, this review paper focuses on the functions of NF-κB in the development of SARS-CoV-2 infection and potential application of NF-κB inhibitors in COVID-19 immunotherapy. A comprehensive literature search was performed using the MEDLINE/PubMed database. In the current review, it is highlighted that NF-κB plays important functions in the modulation of an adaptive inflammatory response, including inducing the expression of proinflammatory genes. Increased activation of NF-κB in SARS-CoV-2 infection was observed. The association between NF-κB activation and the expression of SARS-CoV-2 structural and non-structural proteins were also reported. It was observed that modulation of NF-κB using, e.g., traditional Chinese medicine or glucocorticosteroids resulted in decreased synthesis of proinflammatory factors caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review summarizes the role of NF-κB in COVID-19 and describes its potential immunotherapeutic target in treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, indisputably more studies involving patients with a severe course of COVID-19 are sorely needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Gudowska-Sawczuk
- Department of Biochemical Diagnostics, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-85-831-8703
| | - Barbara Mroczko
- Department of Biochemical Diagnostics, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland;
- Department of Neurodegeneration Diagnostics, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland
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12
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The Role of Vitamin D in Supporting Health in the COVID-19 Era. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073621. [PMID: 35408981 PMCID: PMC8998275 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The genomic activity of vitamin D is associated with metabolic effects, and the hormone has a strong impact on several physiological functions and, therefore, on health. Among its renowned functions, vitamin D is an immunomodulator and a molecule with an anti-inflammatory effect, and, recently, it has been much studied in relation to its response against viral infections, especially against COVID-19. This review aims to take stock of the correlation studies between vitamin D deficiency and increased risks of severe COVID-19 disease and, similarly, between vitamin D deficiency and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Based on this evidence, supplementation with vitamin D has been tested in clinical trials, and the results are discussed. Finally, this study includes a biochemical analysis on the effects of vitamin D in the body's defense mechanisms against viral infection. In particular, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions are considered in relation to energy metabolism, and the potential, beneficial effect of vitamin D in COVID-19 is described, with discussion of its influence on different biochemical pathways. The proposed, broader view of vitamin D activity could support a better-integrated approach in supplementation strategies against severe COVID-19, which could be valuable in a near future of living with an infection becoming endemic.
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13
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Trimarco V, Manzi MV, Mancusi C, Strisciuglio T, Fucile I, Fiordelisi A, Pilato E, Izzo R, Barbato E, Lembo M, Morisco C. Insulin Resistance and Vitamin D Deficiency: A Link Beyond the Appearances. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:859793. [PMID: 35369303 PMCID: PMC8968037 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.859793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D is a steroid hormone that plays a key role in the regulation of body homeostasis, including cardiovascular function. Although the chronic deficiency of vitamin D is associated with cardiovascular risk factors, as well as with an adverse prognosis, randomized controlled trials have failed in demonstrating that dietary vitamin D supplementation could ameliorate the prognosis of patients with cardiovascular diseases, and suggested that vitamin D deficiency is the expression of the effects of other determinants of cardiovascular risk. Thus, the supplementation of vitamin D is not sufficient to improve the cardiovascular risk profile and prognosis. Insulin resistance is a complex phenomenon that plays a key role in the pathogenesis of conventional cardiovascular risk factors. Interestingly, defects of vitamin D and insulin resistance have a superimposable epidemiological distribution. According to the common view, Insulin resistance is considered the direct or indirect consequence of vitamin D deficiency. However, it is also reasonable to speculate that the deficit or the impaired action of vitamin D, in some circumstances, could be the result of the same pathogenic mechanisms responsible of insulin resistance development. In this case, vitamin D deficiency could be considered an epiphenomenon of insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a reversible condition, being possibly ameliorated by physical activity and hypocaloric diets. Notably, both physical exercise and energy-restricted dietary regimens are associated with an increase of vitamin D levels. These findings indicate that improving insulin resistance condition is a necessary step to ameliorate vitamin D supplementation-based strategies in cardiovascular prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Trimarco
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Virginia Manzi
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Costantino Mancusi
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Strisciuglio
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria Fucile
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Fiordelisi
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Emanuele Pilato
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Izzo
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Emanuele Barbato
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Lembo
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Maria Lembo
| | - Carmine Morisco
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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14
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Cimmino G, Conte S, Morello M, Pellegrino G, Marra L, Morello A, Nicoletti G, De Rosa G, Golino P, Cirillo P. Vitamin D Inhibits IL-6 Pro-Atherothrombotic Effects in Human Endothelial Cells: A Potential Mechanism for Protection against COVID-19 Infection? J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2022; 9:jcdd9010027. [PMID: 35050236 PMCID: PMC8781542 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd9010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Thrombosis with cardiovascular involvement is a crucial complication in COVID-19 infection. COVID-19 infects the host by the angiotensin converting enzyme-2 receptor (ACE2r), which is expressed in endothelial cells too. Thus, COVID-related thrombotic events might be due to endothelial dysfunction. IL-6 is one of the main cytokines involved in the COVID-19 inflammatory storm. Some evidence indicates that Vitamin D (VitD) has a protective role in COVID-19 patients, but the molecular mechanisms involved are still debated. Thus, we investigated the effect of VitD on Tissue Factor and adhesion molecules (CAMs) in IL-6-stimulated endothelial cells (HUVEC). Moreover, we evaluated levels of the ACE2r gene and proteins. Finally, we studied the modulation of NF-kB and STAT3 pathways. Methods: HUVEC cultivated in VitD-enriched medium were stimulated with IL-6 (0.5 ng/mL). The TF gene (RT-PCR), protein (Western blot), surface expression (FACS) and procoagulant activity (FXa generation assay) were measured. Similarly, CAMs soluble values (ELISA) and ACE2r (RT-PCR and Western blot) levels were assessed. NF-kB and STAT3 modulation (Western blot) were also investigated. Results: VitD significantly reduced TF expression at both gene and protein levels as well as TF-procoagulant activity in IL-6-treated HUVEC. Similar effects were observed for CAMs and ACE2r expression. IL-6 modulates these effects by regulating NF-κB and STAT3 pathways. Conclusions: IL-6 induces endothelial dysfunction with TF and CAMs expression via upregulation of ACE2r. VitD prevented these IL-6 deleterious effects. Thus, it might be speculated that this is one of the hypothetical mechanism(s) by which VitD exerts its beneficial effects in COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Cimmino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.C.); (P.G.)
| | - Stefano Conte
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Lung Disease, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Mariarosaria Morello
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.M.); (G.N.); (G.D.R.)
| | - Grazia Pellegrino
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, Section of Anesthesiology, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Laura Marra
- Department of Cell Biology and Biotherapy Research, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS—Fondazione G. Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Andrea Morello
- Biochemical Unit, A. S. Re. M. (Azienda Sanitaria Regionale del Molise), Antonio Cardarelli Hospital, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Nicoletti
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.M.); (G.N.); (G.D.R.)
| | - Gennaro De Rosa
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.M.); (G.N.); (G.D.R.)
| | - Paolo Golino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.C.); (P.G.)
| | - Plinio Cirillo
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Section of Cardiology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.M.); (G.N.); (G.D.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +39-081-746-2235
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15
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Alharbi A. A Potential Role of Vitamin D on Platelet Leukocyte Aggregation and Pathological Events in Sepsis: An Updated Review. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:3651-3664. [PMID: 34354363 PMCID: PMC8331079 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s321362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency and sepsis are both significant global health problems. Insufficient vitamin D is considered to be a pathogenically relevant factor of sepsis-related deaths; however, a causal relationship has not yet been demonstrated. Recently, vitamin D has been an exciting field of research owing to the identification of vitamin D receptors on many extra skeletal tissues and cells, suggesting an unexpected role on body physiology, beyond its effects on bone homeostasis. However, while the role of vitamin D on bone health is widely understood and has been successfully translated into clinical applications and public health policies, recent evidence supporting its role in other physiological and pathological processes has not been fully established. In sepsis, there is an induction of local intracellular vitamin D activity by most immune cells, including lymphocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells, as well as vascular endothelial cells, to ensure efficient clearance of infective microorganisms and mediate anti-inflammatory and tolerogenic effects. The literature suggests an association between low vitamin D levels and sepsis, but clinical trials have yielded contradictory results. A greater understanding of this role may improve disease management. This article reviews the available knowledge regarding vitamin D in immune function, emerging literature regarding the association between its deficiency and sepsis, as well as presenting its potential effect on platelet leukocyte aggregations (PLAs), a significant pathology in sepsis. It also summarizes clinical trials involving vitamin D supplementation during critical illness and sepsis and addresses the impact of relevant factors of sepsis pathogenesis on the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation, which could contribute to the reported inconsistencies. Looking ahead, further studies are required to uncover the possible modulatory relationship between vitamin D and sepsis to define better cut-offs for its levels, proper timing of its administration, and the optimum dosage for best management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azzah Alharbi
- Medical Microbiology and Parasitology Department, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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