Abstract
The discovery of nonclassical actions, other than mineral homeostasis, of 1α,25- dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D3) has expanded its applications. Among these, its anti-inflammation activity has drawn more and more attention of researchers to investigate its role in regulating the progression of inflammatory diseases. The expression of many inflammation-related genes is regulated by 1,25D3 through vitamin D receptor (VDR) in a large variety of cells including immune cells such as, but not limited to, macrophages, dendritic cells, T helper cells, and B cells. Studies of 1,25D3 in these immune cells have shown both direct and indirect immunomodulatory activities affecting innate and adaptive immune responses. Moreover, 1,25D3 can also exert its anti-inflammation effects through regulating the biosynthesis of pro-inflammatory molecules in the prostaglandin pathway or through nuclear factor kappa light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB) by affecting cytokine production and inflammatory responses. These actions of 1,25D3 may explain the associations between vitamin D levels and inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, asthma, type 1 diabetes, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Although several analogs of 1,25D3 have shown potent immunomodulatory or anti-inflammatory activity on immune cell cultures or in animal models, no vitamin D analog has been used in clinical research to treat inflammatory diseases. Here, we review the relationship between vitamin D analogs and inflammation based on observations of immune cells, prostaglandin and NFκB pathways, as well as common inflammatory diseases.
Keywords: Analogs, Autoimmune diseases, Immune systems, Inflammatory diseases, Vitamin D, VDR.
Graphical Abstract
Call for Papers in Thematic Issues
Adaptogens—History and Future Perspectives
Adaptogens are pharmacologically active compounds or plant extracts that are associated with the ability to enhance the body’s stability against stress. The intake of adaptogens is associated not only with a better ability to adapt to stress and maintain or normalise metabolic functions but also with better mental and physical ...read more
Addressing the Most Common Causes of Death with Niacin/NAD and Inositol Polyphosphates
The most common causes of death in the world are cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer. These are perhaps best addressed by reducing lipodystrophy and blockages with niacin and inositol polyphosphates (e.g., IP6+inositol) respectively when addressing CVD. Niacin serves as a vitamin by virtue of its role as a skeletal precursor ...read more
AlphaFold in Medicinal Chemistry: Opportunities and Challenges
AlphaFold, a groundbreaking AI tool for protein structure prediction, is revolutionizing drug discovery. Its near-atomic accuracy unlocks new avenues for designing targeted drugs and performing efficient virtual screening. However, AlphaFold's static predictions lack the dynamic nature of proteins, crucial for understanding drug action. This is especially true for multi-domain proteins, ...read more
Artificial intelligence for Natural Products Discovery and Development
Our approach involves using computational methods to predict the potential therapeutic benefits of natural products by considering factors such as drug structure, targets, and interactions. We also employ multitarget analysis to understand the role of drug targets in disease pathways. We advocate for the use of artificial intelligence in predicting ...read more
Related Journals
Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry
Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry
Current Bioactive Compounds
Current Cancer Drug Targets
Combinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening
Current Cancer Therapy Reviews
Current Diabetes Reviews
Current Drug Safety
Current Drug Targets
Current Drug Therapy
Related Books
Andrographolide and its Analogs: Botanical Sources, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Biotechnology
Metabolites of Medicinal Plants: Insightful Approaches
Herbs for Disease Prevention and Treatment
Anthocyanins: Pharmacology and Nutraceutical Importance
Herbal Medicine for Autoimmune Diseases
Therapeutic Insights into Herbal Medicine through the Use of Phytomolecules
The Roles and Responsibilities of Clinical Pharmacists in Hospital Settings
Bioactive Compounds from Medicinal Plants for Cancer Therapy and Chemoprevention
Science of Spices and Culinary Herbs - Latest Laboratory, Pre-clinical, and Clinical Studies
The Chemistry inside Spices & Herbs: Research and Development
106
5