The Role of Vitamin D in Neurodegeneration and Other Pathological Processes of the Central Nervous System

Abstract

The nervous system is the most complex organ in the human body, and it is the most essential. However nerve cells are particularly precious as, only like muscle cells, once formed, they do not replicate. This means that neural injuries cannot easily be replaced or repaired. Vitamin D seems to play a pivotal role in protecting these vulnerable and most important structures, but exactly how and to what extend is still subject to debate. Systematically reviewing the vast body of research on the influence of Vitamin D in various neuropathological processes, we found that Vitamin D particularly plays a mitigating role in the development of chronic neurodegeneration and the measured response to acutely acquired traumatic and non-traumatic nerve cells incidents. Adequate serum levels of Vitamin D before the initiation of these processes is increasingly viewed as being neuroprotective. However, comprehensive data on using it as a treatment during the ongoing process or after the injury to neurons is completed are much more ambiguous. A recommendation for testing and supplementation of insufficiencies seems to be well-founded.

Vitamin D supplementation in later life: a systematic review of efficacy and safety in movement disorders

“…Another much-discussed high-dose side effect, particularly in older women, is the occurrence of balance problems resulting in falls and fractures as described by Sanders et al, (2010). It is worth noting that these are already common problems in the elderly with neurological diseases (Homann et al, 2013) and particularly with MDs (Homann, 2021). Sanders et al 's findings, along with those of other studies on the subject, led to the proposal of an age and dosedependent pattern of vitamin D supplementation efficacy, with an optimal daily dose of 700-1,000 IU and an inverted U-shaped response, along with worsening balance after the age of 70 (Sanders et al, 2010).…”

“…In addition, adverse events appear to differ between age groups, despite the fact that the data from our included RCTs was insufficient to establish clear conclusions. Given the vulnerability of the aging brain (Homann, 2021), this is not surprising, but additional study is needed for confirmation.…”

“…Within this framework, Vitamin D supplementation, has emerged as a particularly promising approach for alleviating the complexities faced by treating aging individuals with MDs This strategy is supported scientifically by the discovery that brain regions associated with MDs, such as the substantia nigra, subcortical gray nuclei, and thalamus, contain Vitamin D receptors (VDRs). In these domains, vitamin D affects neuronal maturation, differentiation, and neurotransmitter synthesis, encompassing dopamine and acetylcholine, which are essential for the onset and management of MDs (Homann, 2021). Furthermore, vitamin D's interaction with VDRs in skeletal muscle cells regulates muscle strength, balance, and coordination.…”

“…Vitamin D may have the potential to contribute to favorable rehabilitation conditions and positively influence primary treatment goals. However, while there is a wealth of evidence in the literature linking various MDs and low vitamin D levels (Homann, 2021), there is not nearly as much information available about vitamin D supplementation. This systematic review aims to investigate whether vitamin D, known for its multiple beneficial effects on brain pathophysiology (Homann, 2021), can positively influence symptoms in older patients with MDs.…”

Evaluation of Vitamin D Levels in Obsessive‑Compulsive Disorder

“…Vitamin D is becoming recognized as specifically affecting CNS. Vitamin D has been found to have a significant impact on the formation and control of the nervous system, according to reports [2]. Vitamin D is crucial for the proper growth and functioning of the brain.…”