Abstract

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is essential for the formation of vitamin D in skin. Importantly, the skin contains all the necessary enzymes to convert the inactive vitamin D into the active hormone, 1α,25 dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25D). The same UVB which produces vitamin D also causes DNA damage. Recent studies have implicated 1,25D in protection against skin carcinogenesis via a reduction in DNA damage and maintenance of immune responses following UVR exposure. Vitamin D compounds have the potential to act as a protective measure against UVR-initiated skin cancer.

Keywords: Ultraviolet radiation, vitamin D, 1α,25 dihydroxyvitamin D, cancer, photoprotection