Exploring vitamin D metabolism and function in cancer

Abstract

Cancer: The significance of vitamin D metabolism Altered vitamin D metabolism in cancer patients might help tumors progress, and understanding this effect could guide new anti-cancer therapies. Sang-Min Jeon and Eun-Ae Shin at Ajou University in South Korea review research on links between cancer and vitamin D metabolism. Vitamin D is best known for its role in building and maintaining healthy bones. Many epidemiological studies, however, suggest vitamin D deficiency is also involved in diseases affecting tissues other than bone. Sunlight promotes vitamin D formation, and low exposure to sunlight was found to be associated with increased incidence of cancer more than 80 years ago. Vitamin D deficiency has since been implicated in at least 18 types of cancer. The authors summarize the metabolic processes underlying the anti-cancer effects of vitamin D, and discuss ways to improve vitamin D-based therapies for cancer.