Question

Biochemistry major

The relationship between vitamin D and chronic obstruction
Pulmonary disease, very detailed explanation

Answer 1

"Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease" (COPD) is the inflammatory lung disease that is characterized by structural abnormalities of the lung. This causes the airflow obstruction makes it hard for the patient to exhale. This condition is caused by the noxious stimulus or gases, like cigarette smoke that leads to mycobacterial infections and viral infections. Several studies have confirmed that vitamin D deficiency is highly common in COPD.

Vitamin D well known for its significant clinical role in calcium metabolism or calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism of the body. Vitamin D also regulates several other cellular functions including muscle and bone strength and immune system and cardiovascular system. The fundamental source of Vitamin D is ultraviolet-B radiation from sunlight. All other dietary sources contribute less than 10% of the daily requirement.

Several studies reveal that "hypovitaminosis D" results in COPD and causes increased susceptibility to pulmonary infection. Vitamin D mediate innate immunity, chiefly by improving the expression of the human "antimicrobial peptide" (AMPs) such as cathelicidin and β defensin 2. They are found in neutrophils, natural killer cells, monocytes, and epithelial cells that line the respiratory tract. So, these AMPs play a significant role in defense against respiratory tract pathogens.

Vitamin D deficiency in COPD by measuring serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D or "25-(OH)D." Macrophages, lymphocytes, and monocytes have vitamin D receptors (VDRs) that increase the expression of these "antimicrobial peptides" with 25(OH)D stimulation.

Therefore, control of respiratory tract infection by improving vitamin D levels may improve the health of COPD patients.

Vitamin D levels above 30 - 40 ng/mL may decrease the risk of COPD. To reach these levels, an individual requires to take 25–125 mcg per day of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) which is an active form of vitamin D.