Vitamin D exerts its effects by binding to and activating the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Upon binding vitamin D, the VDR functions as a transcription factor, regulating the activity of over 1,000 different genes.[1] This “genomic” action of vitamin D tends to be slower-acting, requiring the synthesis of new mRNA and proteins to take effect.
Vitamin D also works through “non-genomic” mechanisms, causing rapid activation of various signaling pathways within the cell. Although VDRs have been identified on cell membranes, it isn’t currently known whether the more rapid, non-genomic action of vitamin D occurs through membrane-associated vitamin D receptors or a different cellular receptor.[2]
Although the most commonly associated effects of vitamin D on the body are associated with bone metabolism, the almost ubiquitous presence of VDRs in cells and tissues throughout the body indicates that vitamin D can affect a wide range of physiological processes.[3] The additional effects of vitamin D on the body include, but aren’t limited to, the following:[4]
- Anticancer effects (promotion of cell death or suppressing proliferation in cancer cells)
- Brain development[5]
- Cell differentiation[6][7]
- Anti-inflammatory effects[8]
- Antibacterial effects (through vitamin D’s effects on immune cells, and its promotion of the expression of genes encoding antimicrobial peptides)[9]
- Blood vessel protection[10]
- Nervous system health
- Calcium regulation