Recent research has linked inadequate vitamin D status to non-skeletal major chronic diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases. Existing data from laboratory studies, epidemiologic and experimental research and prevention trials, suggest that vitamin D reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Through increased renin and angiotensin II synthesis, vitamin D deficiency can increase the production of reactive oxygen species and G protein RhoA, resulting in inhibition of the pathways necessary for intracellular glucose transporter and thus the development of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. In addition, direct effects of vitamin D upon smooth muscle calcification and proliferation could contribute to their effects on cardiovascular health.
Studies have also demonstrated a link between vitamin D deficiency and progression of atherothrombosis and vascular calcification. Vitamin D has been found to regulate macrophage maturation and infiltration into the vasculature, subsequently regulating the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules, which are critical components in the progression of atherosclerosis. These findings are also in line with observations that vitamin-D deficient patients have increased plaque instability and incidence of myocardial infarction.
Heart disease due to deficiency of Vitamin D
