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Abstract
Many epidemiological studies have highlighted the link between vitamin D deficiency and schizophrenia. In particular, two prominent studies report an association between neonatal vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of schizophrenia. In parallel, much has been learnt about the role of vitamin D in the developing central nervous system over the last two decades. Studies in rodent models of developmental vitamin D (DVD)-deficiency describe how brain development is altered leading to a range of neurobiological and behavioral phenotypes of interest to schizophrenia. While glutamate and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) systems have been little investigated in these models, alterations in developing dopamine systems are frequently reported. There have been far more studies reporting patients with schizophrenia have an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency compared to well controls. Here we have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis that basically confirms this association and extends this to first-episode psychosis. However, patients with schizophrenia also have poorer general health, poorer diets, are frequently less active and also have an increased risk of other medical conditions, all factors which reduce circulating vitamin D levels. Therefore, we would urge caution in any causal interpretation of this association. We also summarize the inconsistent results from existing vitamin D supplementation trials in patients with schizophrenia. In respect to animal models of adult vitamin D deficiency, such exposures produce subtle neurochemical alterations and effects on cognition but do not appear to produce behavioral phenotypes of relevance to schizophrenia. We conclude, the hypothesis that vitamin D deficiency during early life may increase the risk of schizophrenia remains plausible and warrants ongoing research.
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Janbek J, Specht IO, Heitmann BL. Associations between vitamin D status in pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopment: a systematic literature review. Nutr Rev 2020; 77:330-349. [PMID: 30806662 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuy071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Vitamin D plays an important role in the development of the brain, which is one of the earliest fetal organs to develop. Results from epidemiological studies investigating associations between maternal levels of vitamin D during pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopment are mixed and inconclusive. OBJECTIVE This systematic review of studies that examined vitamin D levels in pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopment used 3 specific domains-timing of exposure during pregnancy trimesters, neurodevelopmental outcomes, and offspring age at assessment of outcomes-to determine whether vitamin D status in pregnancy is associated with offspring neurodevelopment. DATA SOURCES A search of the Embase, PsychInfo, Scopus, and The Cochrane Library databases in September 2017 and February 2018 identified 844 articles, of which 46 were retrieved for full-text assessment. STUDY SELECTION Eligibility criteria were used to select studies. All authors examined the studies, and consensus was reached through discussion. Results were divided according to the 3 domains. DATA EXTRACTION Authors examined the studies independently, and data from eligible studies were extracted using a modified version of the Cochrane data collection form. Using the modified Downs and Black checklist, 2 authors assessed the quality of the studies independently and were blinded to each other's assessment. Consensus was reached upon discussion and with the involvement of the third author. RESULTS Fifteen observational studies were included. Vitamin D in pregnancy was associated with offspring language and motor skills in young children. Associations persisted into adolescence, and results were not dependent on the timing of vitamin D exposure during pregnancy. No supplementation studies were identified. CONCLUSIONS There is some evidence that low vitamin D status in pregnancy is associated with offspring language and motor development, particularly in young children. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration number CRD42017078312.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Janbek
- Research Unit for Dietary Studies at the Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital (part of Copenhagen University Hospital), Frederiksberg, Denmark. J. Janbek and B.L. Heitmann are with the Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ina O Specht
- Research Unit for Dietary Studies at the Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital (part of Copenhagen University Hospital), Frederiksberg, Denmark. J. Janbek and B.L. Heitmann are with the Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Berit L Heitmann
- Research Unit for Dietary Studies at the Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital (part of Copenhagen University Hospital), Frederiksberg, Denmark. J. Janbek and B.L. Heitmann are with the Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Kawakami N, Kobayashi K, Nishimura A, Ohmori I. Poor mother-offspring relationships in rats with <i>Cacna1a</i> mutation. Exp Anim 2020; 69:153-160. [PMID: 31723085 PMCID: PMC7220709 DOI: 10.1538/expanim.19-0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Homozygous Groggy dams, which carry a Cacna1a missense mutation, often
show no interest in their offspring, leading to frequent offspring deaths due to lack of
nurturing. The present study aimed to clarify whether the Cacna1a
mutation contributes to impaired attachment behaviors between dam and offspring. The open
field test showed that homozygous female rats exhibited markedly short travel distance,
whereas no difference was found between the motor activity of heterozygous females and
that of wild types (WT). A series of behavioral tests was performed to compare the
mother–offspring relationship between WT and heterozygous rats. Performance in the pup
retrieval test was significantly less successful in heterozygous than WT dams. During the
experiment, heterozygous dams spent significantly less time licking and crouching than WT
dams. The offspring dam-seeking behavior test revealed that heterozygous pups’
vocalizations were significantly less frequent and shorter than those of WT pups. Although
no significant difference was found between WT and heterozygous offspring in the olfactory
sense test, using a piece of chocolate, heterozygous pups took significantly longer to
reach a sample of the dam’s bedding. Taken together, these findings suggest that the
Cacna1a mutation impairs both the dam’s maternal behavior and the
offspring’s attachment behavior toward the dam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nozomi Kawakami
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 5-1 Shikatacho 2-chome, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Kiyoka Kobayashi
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 5-1 Shikatacho 2-chome, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Ayumu Nishimura
- Okayama University, 5-1 Shikatacho 2-chome, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Iori Ohmori
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 5-1 Shikatacho 2-chome, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
- Graduate School of Education, Okayama University, 5-1 Shikatacho 2-chome, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
- Department of Child Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1 Tsushimanaka 3-chome, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
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Developmental Vitamin D Deficiency Produces Behavioral Phenotypes of Relevance to Autism in an Animal Model. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11051187. [PMID: 31137843 PMCID: PMC6566814 DOI: 10.3390/nu11051187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that gestational or developmental vitamin D (DVD) deficiency is associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social interaction, lack of verbal and non-verbal communications, stereotyped repetitive behaviors and hyper-activities. There are several other clinical features that are commonly comorbid with ASD, including olfactory impairments, anxiety and delays in motor development. Here we investigate these features in an animal model related to ASD-the DVD-deficient rat. Compared to controls, both DVD-deficient male and female pups show altered ultrasonic vocalizations and stereotyped repetitive behavior. Further, the DVD-deficient animals had delayed motor development and impaired motor control. Adolescent DVD-deficient animals had impaired reciprocal social interaction, while as adults, these animals were hyperactive. The DVD-deficient model is associated with a range of behavioral features of interest to ASD.
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Prenatal vitamin D deficiency does not exacerbate behavioural impairments associated with prenatal ethanol exposure in juvenile male mice. Behav Brain Res 2019; 356:127-136. [PMID: 30142394 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.08.018] [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: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
There is a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and exposure to low levels of ethanol in pregnant women. However, there are a paucity of studies that have addressed the impact of both vitamin D deficiency and ethanol exposure on the offspring's vulnerability to neurodevelopmental disorders later in life. The aim of this study was to examine whether the absence of vitamin D during gestation in mice would alter the effects of prenatal exposure to low dose ethanol on the behaviour and dopaminergic gene expression patterns of juvenile mice. Four-week old female C57BL/6J mice were placed on a prenatal vitamin D deficient (PVD) or standard diet for 6 weeks and mated at 10 weeks of age. Females were exposed to either 10%(v/v) ethanol or water between gestational days 0-8 and all were offered water thereafter. We found that blood ethanol concentration in the dams was not affected by maternal diet. Behavioural analyses of the offspring included ultrasonic vocalizations (USV) at postnatal day (P) 7, locomotion and social interaction at P21. The main findings were increased USV calling rate and impaired social interaction in males with prenatal ethanol exposure (PrEE). Gene expression analysis of transcripts involved in dopamine regulation revealed a main effect of ethanol exposure on dopamine- and cyclic adenosine monophosphate- regulated neuronal phosphoprotein (Darpp-32), a main effect of vitamin D diet on Dopamine 2 Receptors (D2R) and a main effect of Sex on Tyrosine Hydroxylase (TH) expression. The combination of PVD-PrEE did not exacerbate the alterations resulting from PVD or PrEE. Despite the limited evidence to support the interaction of PVD and PrEE during the postnatal period, males were more vulnerable than female offspring to the detrimental effects of PrEE. Therefore, based on these studies in mice we suggest that maintenance of optimal vitamin D levels and abstinence from ethanol during pregnancy would reduce risk of later disruption to brain function and behaviour in the offspring.
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Yates NJ, Tesic D, Feindel KW, Smith JT, Clarke MW, Wale C, Crew RC, Wharfe MD, Whitehouse AJO, Wyrwoll CS. Vitamin D is crucial for maternal care and offspring social behaviour in rats. J Endocrinol 2018; 237:73-85. [PMID: 29559544 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Early life vitamin D plays a prominent role in neurodevelopment and subsequent brain function, including schizophrenic-like outcomes and increasing evidence for an association with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here, we investigate how early life vitamin D deficiency during rat pregnancy and lactation alters maternal care and influences neurodevelopment and affective, cognitive and social behaviours in male adult offspring. Sprague-Dawley rats were placed on either a vitamin D control (2195 IU/kg) or deficient diet (0 IU/kg) for five weeks before timed mating, and diet exposure was maintained until weaning of offspring on postnatal day (PND) 23. MRI scans were conducted to assess brain morphology, and plasma corticosterone levels and neural expression of genes associated with language, dopamine and glucocorticoid exposure were characterised at PND1, PND12 and 4 months of age. Compared to controls, vitamin D-deficient dams exhibited decreased licking and grooming of their pups but no differences in pup retrieval. Offspring neurodevelopmental markers were unaltered, but vitamin D-deficient pup ultrasonic vocalisations were atypical. As adults, males that had been exposed to vitamin D deficiency in early life exhibited decreased social behaviour, impaired learning and memory outcomes and increased grooming behaviour, but unaltered affective behaviours. Accompanying these behavioural changes was an increase in lateral ventricle volume, decreased cortical FOXP2 (a protein implicated in language and communication) and altered neural expression of genes involved in dopamine and glucocorticoid-related pathways. These data highlight that early life levels of vitamin D are an important consideration for maternal behavioural adaptations as well as offspring neuropsychiatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathanael J Yates
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Dijana Tesic
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Kirk W Feindel
- Centre for MicroscopyCharacterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Jeremy T Smith
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Michael W Clarke
- Metabolomics AustraliaCentre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Celeste Wale
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Rachael C Crew
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Michaela D Wharfe
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Caitlin S Wyrwoll
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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Ali A, Cui X, Eyles D. Developmental vitamin D deficiency and autism: Putative pathogenic mechanisms. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 175:108-118. [PMID: 28027915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disease that presents in early life. Despite a considerable amount of studies, the neurobiological mechanisms underlying autism remain obscure. Both genetic and environmental factors are involved in the development of autism. Vitamin D deficiency is emerging as a consistently reported risk factor in children. One reason for the prominence now being given to this risk factor is that it would appear to interact with several other epidemiological risk factors for autism. Vitamin D is an active neurosteroid and plays crucial neuroprotective roles in the developing brain. It has important roles in cell proliferation and differentiation, immunomodulation, regulation of neurotransmission and steroidogenesis. Animal studies have suggested that transient prenatal vitamin D deficiency is associated with altered brain development. Here we review the potential neurobiological mechanisms linking prenatal vitamin D deficiency and autism and also discuss what future research targets must now be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asad Ali
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Xiaoying Cui
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Darryl Eyles
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Qld 4072, Australia; Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Wacol, Qld 4076, Australia.
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Belenchia AM, Johnson SA, Ellersieck MR, Rosenfeld CS, Peterson CA. In utero vitamin D deficiency predisposes offspring to long-term adverse adipose tissue effects. J Endocrinol 2017; 234:301-313. [PMID: 28676524 PMCID: PMC6647013 DOI: 10.1530/joe-17-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The fetal period represents an important window of susceptibility for later obesity and metabolic disease. Maternal vitamin D deficiency (VDD) during pregnancy is a global concern that may have long-lasting consequences on offspring metabolic health. We sought to determine whether a VDD in utero environment affects fetal adipose tissue development and offspring metabolic disease predisposition in adulthood. Furthermore, we sought to explore the extent to which the VDD intrauterine environment interacts with genetic background or postnatal environment to influence metabolic health. Eight-week-old P0 female C57BL/6J mice were fed either a VDD diet or sufficient diet (VDS) from four weeks before pregnancy (periconception) then bred to male Avy/a mice. Females were maintained on the diets throughout gestation. At weaning, Avy/a and a/a male F1 offspring were randomized to low-fat (LFD) or high-fat diet (HFD) until 19 weeks of age, at which point serum and adipose tissue were harvested for analyses. Mice born to VDD dams weighed less at weaning than offspring born to VDS dams but experienced rapid weight gain in the four weeks post weaning, and acquired a greater ratio of perigonadal (PGAT) to subcutaneous (SQAT) than control offspring. Additionally, these mice were more susceptible to HFD-induced adipocyte hypertrophy. Offspring of VDD dams also had greater expression of Pparg transcript. These novel findings demonstrate that in utero VDD, an easily correctable but highly prevalent health concern, predisposes offspring to long-term adipose tissue consequences and possible adverse metabolic health complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony M Belenchia
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise PhysiologyUniversity of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Sarah A Johnson
- Department of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Bond Life Sciences CenterUniversity of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Mark R Ellersieck
- Department of StatisticsUniversity of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Cheryl S Rosenfeld
- Department of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Bond Life Sciences CenterUniversity of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Catherine A Peterson
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise PhysiologyUniversity of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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10
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Schoenrock SA, Tarantino LM. Developmental vitamin D deficiency and schizophrenia: the role of animal models. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2016; 15:45-61. [PMID: 26560996 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a debilitating neuropsychiatric disorder that affects 1% of the US population. Based on twin and genome-wide association studies, it is clear that both genetics and environmental factors increase the risk for developing schizophrenia. Moreover, there is evidence that conditions in utero, either alone or in concert with genetic factors, may alter neurodevelopment and lead to an increased risk for schizophrenia. There has been progress in identifying genetic loci and environmental exposures that increase risk, but there are still considerable gaps in our knowledge. Furthermore, very little is known about the specific neurodevelopmental mechanisms upon which genetics and the environment act to increase disposition to developing schizophrenia in adulthood. Vitamin D deficiency during the perinatal period has been hypothesized to increase risk for schizophrenia in humans. The developmental vitamin D (DVD) deficiency hypothesis of schizophrenia arises from the observation that disease risk is increased in individuals who are born in winter or spring, live further from the equator or live in urban vs. rural settings. These environments result in less exposure to sunlight, thereby reducing the initial steps in the production of vitamin D. Rodent models have been developed to characterize the behavioral and developmental effects of DVD deficiency. This review focuses on these animal models and discusses the current knowledge of the role of DVD deficiency in altering behavior and neurobiology relevant to schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Schoenrock
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Neurobiology Curriculum, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - L M Tarantino
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Bala KA, Doğan M, Kaba S, Mutluer T, Aslan O, Doğan SZ. Hormone disorder and vitamin deficiency in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2016; 29:1077-82. [PMID: 27544717 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2015-0473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to analyze thyroid hormones and antibodies, ferritin, vitamins B12 and D, adrenal and gonadal steroid levels, and celiac antibodies in children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). METHODS Between February 2014 and July 2014, a total of 77 children and adolescents (31 girls, 46 boys) who were admitted to the Van Training and Research Hospital were included in the study. The study population was divided into three groups including ADHD (n=34), ASD (n=16), and age- and sex-matched healthy controls (n=27). The diagnosis of ADHD was made on the basis of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Fifth Edition (DSM-5) and DSM-4 Turkish version with the diagnostic interview and Disruptive Behavior Disorder Rating Scale (DBDRS). The diagnosis of ASD was based on the DSM-4 and DSM-5 Turkish version with the diagnostic interview and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). The blood samples were obtained between 8:00 and 9:00 A.M. RESULTS There was a statistically significant difference in vitamin B12 and D levels and ferritin values among the three groups. The ASD group had the highest ferritin and the lowest vitamins B12 and D levels. Vitamin D levels of the ADHD group were significantly lower compared to the healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS Our study results highlight the importance of supplementation of vitamins B12 and D in the ASD and ADHD patients.
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Pet MA, Brouwer-Brolsma EM. The Impact of Maternal Vitamin D Status on Offspring Brain Development and Function: a Systematic Review. Adv Nutr 2016; 7:665-78. [PMID: 27422502 PMCID: PMC4942857 DOI: 10.3945/an.115.010330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Various studies have examined associations between maternal vitamin D (VD) deficiency and offspring health, including offspring brain health. The purpose of this review was to summarize current evidence concerning the impact of maternal VD deficiency on brain development and function in offspring. A systematic search was conducted within Medline (on Ovid) for studies published through 7 May 2015. Animal and human studies that examined associations between maternal VD status or developmental VD deficiency and offspring brain development and function were included. A total of 26 animal studies and 10 human studies met the inclusion criteria. Several animal studies confirmed the hypothesis that low prenatal VD status may affect brain morphology and physiology as well as behavioral outcomes. In humans, subtle cognitive and psychological impairments in offspring of VD-deficient mothers were observed. However, data obtained from animal and human studies provide inconclusive evidence, and results seem to depend on strain or race and age of offspring. To conclude, prenatal VD status is thought to play an important role in brain development, cognitive function, and psychological function. However, results are inconclusive; validation of these findings and investigation of underlying mechanisms are required. Thus, more investigation is needed before recommending supplementation of VD during pregnancy to promote brain health of offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milou A Pet
- Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, Wageningen, Netherlands; and,Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Netherlands
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Leibrock CB, Voelkl J, Kuro-O M, Lang F, Lang UE. 1,25(OH)2D3 dependent overt hyperactivity phenotype in klotho-hypomorphic mice. Sci Rep 2016; 6:24879. [PMID: 27109615 PMCID: PMC4843009 DOI: 10.1038/srep24879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Klotho, a protein mainly expressed in kidney and cerebral choroid plexus, is a powerful regulator of 1,25(OH)2D3 formation. Klotho-deficient mice (kl/kl) suffer from excessive plasma 1,25(OH)2D3-, Ca2+- and phosphate-concentrations, leading to severe soft tissue calcification and accelerated aging. NH4Cl treatment prevents tissue calcification and premature ageing without affecting 1,25(OH)2D3-formation. The present study explored the impact of excessive 1,25(OH)2D3 formation in NH4Cl-treated kl/kl-mice on behavior. To this end kl/kl-mice and wild-type mice were treated with NH4Cl and either control diet or vitamin D deficient diet (LVD). As a result, plasma 1,25(OH)2D3-, Ca2+- and phosphate-concentrations were significantly higher in untreated and in NH4Cl-treated kl/kl-mice than in wild-type mice, a difference abrogated by LVD. In each, open field, dark-light box, and O-maze NH4Cl-treated kl/kl-mice showed significantly higher exploratory behavior than untreated wild-type mice, a difference abrogated by LVD. The time of floating in the forced swimming test was significantly shorter in NH4Cl treated kl/kl-mice compared to untreated wild-type mice and to kl/kl-mice on LVD. In wild-type animals, NH4Cl treatment did not significantly alter 1,25(OH)2D3, calcium and phosphate concentrations or exploratory behavior. In conclusion, the excessive 1,25(OH)2D3 formation in klotho-hypomorphic mice has a profound effect on murine behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina B Leibrock
- Department of Physiology, Cardiology &Vascular Medicine, University of Tübingen, Gmelinstr. 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jakob Voelkl
- Department of Physiology, Cardiology &Vascular Medicine, University of Tübingen, Gmelinstr. 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Makoto Kuro-O
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Florian Lang
- Department of Physiology, Cardiology &Vascular Medicine, University of Tübingen, Gmelinstr. 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Undine E Lang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Basel, Wilhelm Klein-Strasse 27, CH-4012 Basel, Switzerland
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Hawes JE, Tesic D, Whitehouse AJ, Zosky GR, Smith JT, Wyrwoll CS. Maternal vitamin D deficiency alters fetal brain development in the BALB/c mouse. Behav Brain Res 2015; 286:192-200. [PMID: 25753408 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to vitamin D is thought to be critical for optimal fetal neurodevelopment, yet vitamin D deficiency is apparent in a growing proportion of pregnant women. The aim of this study was to determine whether a mouse model of vitamin D-deficiency alters fetal neurodevelopment. Female BALB/c mice were placed on either a vitamin D control (2,195 IU/kg) or deficient (0 IU/kg) diet for 5 weeks prior to and during pregnancy. Fetal brains were collected at embryonic day (E) 14.5 or E17.5 for morphological and gene expression analysis. Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy reduced fetal crown-rump length and head size. Moreover, lateral ventricle volume was reduced in vitamin D-deficient foetuses. Expression of neurotrophin genes brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) and transforming growth factor-β1 (Tgf-β1) was altered, with Bdnf reduced at E14.5 and increased at E17.5 following vitamin D deficiency. Brain expression of forkhead box protein P2 (Foxp2), a gene known to be important in human speech and language, was also altered. Importantly, Foxp2 immunoreactive cells in the developing cortex were reduced in vitamin D-deficient female foetuses. At E17.5, brain tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) gene expression was reduced in females, as was TH protein localization (to identify dopamine neurons) in the substantia nigra of vitamin D-deficient female foetuses. Overall, we show that prenatal vitamin D-deficiency leads to alterations in fetal mouse brain morphology and genes related to neuronal survival, speech and language development, and dopamine synthesis. Vitamin D appears to play an important role in mouse neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jazmin E Hawes
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Dijana Tesic
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Andrew J Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Graeme R Zosky
- School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Australia
| | - Jeremy T Smith
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Caitlin S Wyrwoll
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia.
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DeLuca GC, Kimball SM, Kolasinski J, Ramagopalan SV, Ebers GC. Review: the role of vitamin D in nervous system health and disease. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2014; 39:458-84. [PMID: 23336971 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin D and its metabolites have pleomorphic roles in both nervous system health and disease. Animal models have been paramount in contributing to our knowledge and understanding of the consequences of vitamin D deficiency on brain development and its implications for adult psychiatric and neurological diseases. The conflation of in vitro, ex vivo, and animal model data provide compelling evidence that vitamin D has a crucial role in proliferation, differentiation, neurotrophism, neuroprotection, neurotransmission, and neuroplasticity. Vitamin D exerts its biological function not only by influencing cellular processes directly, but also by influencing gene expression through vitamin D response elements. This review highlights the epidemiological, neuropathological, experimental and molecular genetic evidence implicating vitamin D as a candidate in influencing susceptibility to a number of psychiatric and neurological diseases. The strength of evidence varies for schizophrenia, autism, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and is especially strong for multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C DeLuca
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (Clinical Neurology), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Kesby JP, Cui X, Burne THJ, Eyles DW. Altered dopamine ontogeny in the developmentally vitamin D deficient rat and its relevance to schizophrenia. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:111. [PMID: 23882183 PMCID: PMC3713405 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous group of disorders with unknown etiology. Although abnormalities in multiple neurotransmitter systems have been linked to schizophrenia, alterations in dopamine (DA) neurotransmission remain central to the treatment of this disorder. Given that schizophrenia is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder we have hypothesized that abnormal DA signaling in the adult patient may result from altered DA signaling during fetal brain development. Environmental and genetic risk factors can be modeled in rodents to allow for the investigation of early neurodevelopmental pathogenesis that may lead to clues into the etiology of schizophrenia. To address this we created an animal model of one such risk factor, developmental vitamin D (DVD) deficiency. DVD-deficient adult rats display an altered behavioral profile in response to DA releasing and blocking agents that are reminiscent of that seen in schizophrenia patients. Furthermore, developmental studies revealed that DVD deficiency also altered cell proliferation, apoptosis, and neurotransmission across the embryonic brain. In particular, DVD deficiency reduces the expression of crucial dopaminergic specification factors and alters DA metabolism in the developing brain. We speculate such alterations in fetal brain development may change the trajectory of DA neuron ontogeny to induce the behavioral abnormalities observed in adult offspring. The widespread evidence that both dopaminergic and structural changes are present in people who develop schizophrenia prior to onset also suggest that early alterations in development are central to the disease. Taken together, early alterations in DA ontogeny may represent a core feature in the pathology of schizophrenia. Such a mechanism could bring together evidence from multiple risk factors and genetic vulnerabilities to form a convergent pathway in disease pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P. Kesby
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San DiegoLa Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Xiaoying Cui
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of QueenslandBrisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Thomas H. J. Burne
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of QueenslandBrisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental HealthWacol, QLD, Australia
| | - Darryl W. Eyles
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of QueenslandBrisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental HealthWacol, QLD, Australia
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Nissou MF, Brocard J, El Atifi M, Guttin A, Andrieux A, Berger F, Issartel JP, Wion D. The transcriptomic response of mixed neuron-glial cell cultures to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin d3 includes genes limiting the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. J Alzheimers Dis 2013; 35:553-64. [PMID: 23455988 PMCID: PMC3962683 DOI: 10.3233/jad-122005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Seasonal or chronic vitamin D deficiency and/or insufficiency is highly prevalent in the human population. Receptors for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, the hormonal metabolite of vitamin D, are found throughout the brain. To provide further information on the role of this hormone on brain function, we analyzed the transcriptomic profiles of mixed neuron-glial cell cultures in response to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 treatment increases the mRNA levels of 27 genes by at least 1.9 fold. Among them, 17 genes were related to neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases, or brain morphogenesis. Notably, 10 of these genes encode proteins potentially limiting the progression of Alzheimer's disease. These data provide support for a role of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in brain disease prevention. The possible consequences of circannual or chronic vitamin D insufficiencies on a tissue with a low regenerative potential such as the brain should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-France Nissou
- GIN, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences
INSERM : U836Université Joseph Fourier - Grenoble ICHU GrenobleCEA : DSV/IRTSVUJF - Site Santé La Tronche BP 170 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, FR
| | - Jacques Brocard
- GIN, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences
INSERM : U836Université Joseph Fourier - Grenoble ICHU GrenobleCEA : DSV/IRTSVUJF - Site Santé La Tronche BP 170 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, FR
| | - Michèle El Atifi
- GIN, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences
INSERM : U836Université Joseph Fourier - Grenoble ICHU GrenobleCEA : DSV/IRTSVUJF - Site Santé La Tronche BP 170 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, FR
| | - Audrey Guttin
- GIN, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences
INSERM : U836Université Joseph Fourier - Grenoble ICHU GrenobleCEA : DSV/IRTSVUJF - Site Santé La Tronche BP 170 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, FR
| | - Annie Andrieux
- GIN, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences
INSERM : U836Université Joseph Fourier - Grenoble ICHU GrenobleCEA : DSV/IRTSVUJF - Site Santé La Tronche BP 170 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, FR
- GPC-GIN, Groupe Physiopathologie du Cytosquelette
INSERM : U836CEA : DSV/IRTSV/GPCUniversité Joseph Fourier - Grenoble IUJF - Site Santé La Tronche BP 170 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, FR
| | - François Berger
- GIN, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences
INSERM : U836Université Joseph Fourier - Grenoble ICHU GrenobleCEA : DSV/IRTSVUJF - Site Santé La Tronche BP 170 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, FR
| | - Jean-Paul Issartel
- GIN, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences
INSERM : U836Université Joseph Fourier - Grenoble ICHU GrenobleCEA : DSV/IRTSVUJF - Site Santé La Tronche BP 170 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, FR
| | - Didier Wion
- GIN, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences
INSERM : U836Université Joseph Fourier - Grenoble ICHU GrenobleCEA : DSV/IRTSVUJF - Site Santé La Tronche BP 170 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, FR
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Effect of vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy on offspring bone structure, composition and quality in later life. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2012; 4:49-55. [DOI: 10.1017/s2040174412000542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
During foetal development, calcium requirements are met as a consequence of maternal adaptations independent of vitamin D status. In contrast, after birth, dependency on vitamin D appears necessary for calcium metabolism and skeletal health. We used a rodent model (Sprague-Dawley rats), to determine if maternal vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy had a deleterious effect on bone structure at birth. Vitamin D deplete females were maintained under deplete conditions until birth of the pups, whereupon all dams were fed a vitamin D replete diet. Offspring were harvested at birth, and 140 days of age. Bones were analyzed using micro-computed tomography and strength tested to study differences in bone structure, density and strength and subjected to elemental analysis using plasma mass spectrometry to determine strontium, barium and calcium contents. Offspring from deplete mothers displayed altered trabecular parameters in the femur at birth and 140 days of age. In addition, at 140 days of age there was evidence of premature mineralization of the secondary ossification centre of the femoral head. Elemental analysis showed increased strontium uptake in the femur of the developmentally vitamin D-deficient offspring. Vitamin D depletion during development in the offspring may have a long-lasting effect, despite repletion of vitamin D from birth. This may have consequences for human health given the low vitamin D levels seen during pregnancy and current lifestyle of sun avoidance due to the risk of skin cancer.
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