Abstract

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is one determinant of secondary hyperparathyroidism in the course of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). However, numerous studies support the notion that vitamin D may exert pleiotropic effects aside of mineral metabolism control. Indeed, vitamin D receptor has been identified in a great variety of tissues and its activation contributes to the parathyroid, intestine, cardiovascular and immune system regulation.

Conclusion: We herein review vitamin D metabolism and effects with a specific emphasis on the potential impact of vitamin D receptor modulation aside from parathyroid hormone control.

Keywords: CKD-MBD, vitamin D, paracalcitol, Vitamin D receptor, vitamin D deficiency.

Graphical Abstract