Vitamin D and its role in maintaining the memory and health of the brain

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Vitamin D and its role in maintaining the memory and health of the brain

Chapter 1: Basics of vitamin D and its metabolism

  1. 1 What is vitamin D?

Vitamin D, often called “solar vitamin”, is a group of fat -soluble second -scales responsible for increasing the absorption of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphate and zinc in the intestines. In people, the most important compounds in this group are vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol).

Vitamin D is unique in that it can be synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight (ultraviolet radiation B, UVB). Holecalciferol (D3) is produced in the skin of 7-dehydrocholesterol under the influence of UVB-rays. Ergocalciferol (D2) is obtained from plant sources and mushrooms that have been exposed to ultraviolet radiation.

  1. 2 Vitamin D metabolism: from skin to active form

Synthesized in the skin or consumed with food vitamin D itself is biologically inactive. He must pass two stages of hydroxylation for activation.

  • The first stage: It occurs in the liver, where cholecalciferol (D3) and ergocalciferol (D2) turn into 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D]also known as calciol. 25 (OH) D is the main form of vitamin D, circulating in the blood, and is used to assess the status of vitamin D in the body.
  • The second stage: It occurs in the kidneys (and, to a lesser extent, in other tissues) under the influence of an enzyme 1α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1), where 25 (OH) D turns into 1.25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D]also known as calcitriol. Calcitriol is a biologically active form of vitamin D.

The activity of 1α-hydroxylase is strictly regulated. It is influenced by factors such as the level of parathormone (PTH), calcium and phosphate in the blood. The low level of calcium or a high level of PTG stimulates the activity of 1α-hydroxylase, increasing the production of calcitriol. A high level of calcium and low PTH level has the opposite effect.

  1. 3 Vitamin D transport in blood

Vitamin D and its metabolites are fat -soluble and therefore transported in the blood in a bound state with proteins. The main transport protein is a vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP), also known as a group-specific component (GC). Albumin also connects vitamin D, but with less affinity.

VDBP concentration can vary depending on genetic factors, ethnicity and health status. For example, in people with kidney diseases, the VDBP level can be reduced.

  1. 4 Vitamin D action mechanism

The main mechanism of vitamin D is binding to the vitamin D (VDR) receptor, which is an intracellular receptor belonging to the super family of nuclear receptors. VDR is expressed in many body tissues, including bones, intestines, kidneys, brain, immune cells and cardiovascular system.

After binding with calcitriol (1.25 (OH) 2D), VDR forms a heterodimer with a retinoid X-receptor (RXR). This complex is associated with certain DNA sequences called the response elements to vitamin D (VDRA) located in the promoter areas of target genes. The binding of VDR-RXR with VDRE leads to activation or suppression of the transcription of these genes, regulating the expression of proteins involved in various physiological processes.

Chapter 2: Vitamin D and brain functions

  1. 1 Vitamin D receptor expression in the brain

The key aspect that emphasizes the role of vitamin D in the health of the brain is the expression of vitamin D (VDR) receptor in various areas of the brain. Studies have shown that VDR is widespread in the brain, especially in the following areas:

  • Hippocampus: Important for learning and memory.
  • Prefrontal bark: Participates in executive functions, planning and making decisions.
  • Cerebellum: Is responsible for coordination of movements and motor training.
  • Hypothalamus: Regulates hormones, appetite and sleep.
  • Substance Nigra: Participates in the control of movements and motivation.

The distribution of VDR in these areas of the brain suggests that vitamin D plays an important role in cognitive functions, neuroprotement and brain development.

  1. 2 Neuroprotective mechanisms of vitamin D

Vitamin D has a neuroprotective effect through several mechanisms:

  • Regulation of calcium homeostasis: Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining calcium homeostasis. Calcium is necessary for the normal function of neurons, signal transmission and synaptic plasticity. Disregulation of calcium homeostasis can lead to exaytotoxicity and neurodegeneration. Vitamin D helps regulate the intracellular level of calcium, protecting neurons from damage.
  • Antioxidant action: Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative diseases. Vitamin D has antioxidant properties, protecting neurons from damage caused by free radicals. It increases the expression of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxidsmutase (SOD) and glutathioneperoxidase (GPX), and reduces the products of active oxygen forms (AFC).
  • Anti -inflammatory action: Chronic inflammation in the brain is associated with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Vitamin D has an anti-inflammatory effect, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as the factor of the necrosis of the alpha tumor (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). It also contributes to the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as Interleukin-10 (IL-10).
  • Support for neurotrophic factors: Neurotrophic factors, such as nerves growth factor (NGF) and the neurotrophic factor of the brain (BDNF), are necessary for the survival, growth and differentiation of neurons. Vitamin D stimulates the production of neurotrophic factors, supporting the health and function of neurons.
  • Regulation of the immune system in the brain: Vitamin D plays a role in the regulation of immune cells in the brain, such as microglia. Microglia is resident immune cells of the brain, which can be activated in response to damage or infection. Chronic activation of microlytes can lead to neuro -reducing and neurodegeneration. Vitamin D helps regulate the activation of microlytes, preventing excessive inflammation and damage to neurons.
  1. 3 The influence of vitamin D on neurotransmission

Vitamin D is involved in the regulation of neurotransmission, affecting the synthesis, release and metabolism of neurotransmitters.

  • Acetylcholine: Vitamin D can improve the cholinergic function, increasing the activity of cholinacetyltransferase (Chat), the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter participating in training, memory and attention.
  • Dofamine: Vitamin D affects the dopaminergic system, regulating the synthesis and release of dopamine. Dopamine plays a key role in motivation, remuneration, control of movements and cognitive functions.
  • Serotonin: Vitamin D is involved in the synthesis of serotonin, neurotransmitter, which regulates mood, sleep, appetite and social behavior. The disadvantage of vitamin D can lead to a decrease in serotonin levels, which can contribute to the development of depression and other mood disorders.
  • Gamk (gamma-aminobral acid): GABA is the main brake neurotransmitter in the brain. Vitamin D can affect the function of the GABA, regulating the expression of gameca -ergic receptors and enzymes involved in the synthesis and metabolism of the GABA.

Chapter 3: Vitamin D and cognitive functions

  1. 1 Vitamin D and memory

Several studies have shown the relationship between vitamin D level and memory function.

  • Epidemiological studies: Many epidemiological studies have revealed that the low level of vitamin D is associated with the deterioration of cognitive functions and an increased risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. These studies often show that in older people with a low level of vitamin D, the probability of memory deterioration and other cognitive functions higher.
  • Animal research: Animal studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency can lead to a deterioration in learning and memory. For example, in mice with vitamin D deficiency, a decrease in spatial memory and the ability to learn in labyrinths was observed. Vitamin D additives improved cognitive functions in these animals.
  • Clinical research: Some clinical studies have shown that vitamin D additives can improve cognitive functions in people with vitamin D deficiency, especially in the elderly. However, the results of these studies are ambiguous, and additional studies are needed to confirm these results. It is important to note that the effectiveness of vitamin D additives may depend on various factors, such as the initial level of vitamin D, age, health status and genetic factors.
  1. 2 Vitamin D and executive functions

Executive functions are cognitive processes that allow us to plan, organize, make decisions and solve problems. Some studies have shown the relationship between the level of vitamin D and performing functions.

  • Observation studies: Some observation studies have shown that the low level of vitamin D is associated with the deterioration of executive functions, such as attention, working memory and cognitive flexibility.
  • Interventional research: Several interventional studies studied the effect of vitamin D additives on executive functions. Some studies have shown that vitamin D additives can improve attention and working memory in people with vitamin D deficiency. However, other studies did not reveal the significant effect of vitamin D additives on executive functions.
  1. 3 Vitamin D and information processing speed

The speed of information processing refers to the speed with which a person can perceive, process and respond to information. Reducing the speed of information processing is a common sign of cognitive aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

  • Research: Some studies have shown that the low level of vitamin D is associated with a slowdown in the speed of information processing. Vitamin D additives can improve the speed of information processing in people with vitamin D deficiency, but additional studies are needed to confirm these results.
  1. 4 Vitamin D and tongue

Language skills are important for communication and cognitive function. Some studies have shown that vitamin D can play a role in the development and maintenance of language skills.

  • Research: Some studies have shown that children with a higher level of vitamin D have the best language skills. In adults, a low level of vitamin D can be associated with a deterioration in language functions.

Chapter 4: Vitamin D and neurodegenerative diseases

  1. 1 Alzheimer’s disease (ba)

Alzheimer’s disease (BA) is the most common form of dementia and is characterized by a progressive loss of memory and other cognitive functions. Several studies showed a relationship between vitamin D level and the risk of BA development.

  • Pathogenesis of BA: BA is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillar balls in the brain. Oxidative stress, inflammation and dysfunction of calcium homeostasis also play a role in the pathogenesis of BA.
  • Vitamin D and BA:
    • Epidemiological studies: Many epidemiological studies have revealed that the low level of vitamin D is associated with an increased risk of BA development.
    • Mechanisms: Vitamin D can have a protective effect with BA through several mechanisms:
      • Reducing the accumulation of amyloid: some studies have shown that vitamin D may reduce the accumulation of amyloid in the brain.
      • Protection against oxidative stress: Vitamin D has antioxidant properties, protecting neurons from damage caused by oxidative stress.
      • Reducing inflammation: Vitamin D has an anti -inflammatory effect, reducing inflammation in the brain.
      • Regulation of calcium homeostasis: Vitamin D helps regulate calcium homeostasis, preventing exaytotoxicity.
  • Clinical trials: Several clinical trials studied the effect of vitamin D additives on cognitive functions in people with BA or high risk of its development. The results of these tests are ambiguous, and additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of vitamin D in the prevention and treatment of BA.
  1. 2 Parkinson’s disease (BP)

Parkinson’s disease (PSU) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substance of Nigra, which leads to motor disorders such as tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and postural instability.

  • Pathogenesis of the BP: The pathogenesis of the PSU is complex and includes oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and the accumulation of alpha synuclein.
  • Vitamin D and PSU:
    • The prevalence of deficiency: People with BP often have a deficiency of vitamin D.
    • The role of vitamin D:
      • Neuroprotection: Vitamin D can have a neuroprotective effect in BP, protecting dopaminergic neurons from damage.
      • Antioxidant and anti -inflammatory action: Vitamin D has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain with PSU.
      • Dopamine regulation: Vitamin D can affect the dopaminergic system, regulating the synthesis and release of dopamine.
  • Research: Some studies have shown that a higher level of vitamin D is associated with a lower risk of BP development. Vitamin D additives can improve motor functions and reduce the severity of immovable symptoms, such as depression and fatigue, in people with PSU. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal dose of vitamin D for people with PSU.
  1. 3 Scattered sclerosis (RS)

Scattered sclerosis (RS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. RS is characterized by demyelinization, inflammation and neurodegeneration.

  • Immunomodulating properties of vitamin D: Vitamin D has immunomodulating properties and plays a role in the regulation of the immune system.
  • Vitamin D and RS:
    • The risk of developing RS: Some studies have shown that the low level of vitamin D is associated with an increased risk of RS development. People living in regions with a low level of sunlight have a higher risk of RS.
    • Current RS: Vitamin D additives can reduce the activity of the disease, reduce exacerbations and slow down the progression of RS.
    • Mechanisms: Vitamin D can affect the course of RS through several mechanisms, including suppression of autoimmune reactions, a decrease in inflammation and protection against demyelineization.
  • Clinical research: Several clinical studies studied the effect of vitamin D additives on the course of RS. Some studies have shown that vitamin D additives can reduce the activity of the disease, reduce the frequency of exacerbations and improve the quality of life in people with RS. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal dose of vitamin D for people with RS.

Chapter 5: Factors affecting the level of vitamin D and recommendations for maintaining it

  1. 1 Factors affecting vitamin D level

The level of vitamin D in the body is influenced by numerous factors:

  • Solar irradiation: The amount of sunlight to which the skin is exposed is the main factor affecting the synthesis of vitamin D. The geographical position (latitude), the season, time of day, cloudiness, air pollution and the use of sunscreen affect the amount of UVB-rays that reach the skin.
  • Skin color: Melanin in the skin absorbs UVB rays, reducing the synthesis of vitamin D. People with dark skin need a greater time in the sun to synthesize a sufficient amount of vitamin D.
  • Age: With age, the ability of the skin to synthesize vitamin D decreases. Older people can also spend less time in the sun and have a reduced kidney function, which affects the activation of vitamin D.
  • Diet: Some products such as fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), egg yolks and enriched products (milk, juices, cereals) contain vitamin D. However, it is difficult to obtain a sufficient amount of vitamin D only from food.
  • Obesity: Vitamin D is fat -soluble and accumulates in adipose tissue. In people with obesity, vitamin D can be sequestered in adipose tissue, reducing its accessibility for circulation in the blood.
  • Diseases: Some diseases, such as diseases of the kidneys, liver and intestines, can affect metabolism and absorption of vitamin D. Some drugs can also affect vitamin D.
  1. 2 Recommendations for maintaining an adequate level of vitamin D
  • Solar irradiation: It is recommended to be in the sun daily for 10-30 minutes in the middle of the day, without using sunscreen to synthesize a sufficient amount of vitamin D. However, it is important to consider the risk of skin damage from excessive effects of sunlight.
  • Diet: Use products rich in vitamin D, such as oily fish, egg yolks and enriched products.
  • Supplements: If there are not enough sunlight and diet, consider the possibility of taking vitamin D3 additives. The recommended daily dose of vitamin D depends on the age, state of health and level of vitamin D in the blood. Consult a doctor to determine the optimal dose for you. As a rule, for adults, 600-800 IU vitamin D per day is recommended. People with vitamin D deficiency may require a higher dose.
  • Vitamin D level monitoring: Regularly check the level of vitamin D in the blood (25 (OH) D) and adjust the dose of vitamin D depending on the results. The optimal level of vitamin D in the blood is 30-50 ng/ml (75-125 nmol/l).

Chapter 6: Future research areas

  1. 1 The need for further research

Despite the growing amount of data indicating the role of vitamin D in the health of the brain, further studies are necessary for a better understanding of vitamin D mechanisms and its effect on cognitive functions and neurodegenerative diseases.

  • Clinical trials: Larger, well -planned randomized controlled clinical trials are needed to study the effects of vitamin D additives on cognitive functions and the course of neurodegenerative diseases. In these studies, various factors should be taken into account, such as the initial level of vitamin D, age, health status and genetic factors.
  • Action mechanisms: Additional studies are needed to study the mechanisms through which vitamin D affects the brain, including its role in the regulation of calcium homeostasis, oxidative stress, inflammation, neurotransmission and neurotrophic factors.
  • Personalized medicine: Future studies should be aimed at developing personalized strategies for maintaining an adequate level of vitamin D, taking into account individual factors, such as genetic factors, lifestyle and health status.
  • Influence on various populations: Additional studies are needed to study the effect of vitamin D on cognitive functions in various populations, including different age groups, ethnic groups and people with various diseases.

Chapter 7: Cautions and Security

  1. 1 Safety of vitamin D additives

Vitamin D is generally safe when receiving in recommended doses. However, high doses of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (high level of calcium in the blood), which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, weakness and constipation. In rare cases, hypercalcemia can lead to serious complications, such as kidney damage and heart rhythm.

  • Recommendations:
    • Do not exceed the recommended daily dose of vitamin D without consulting a doctor.
    • Regularly check the level of vitamin D in the blood to make sure that it is within normal limits.
    • Tell your doctor about any drugs or additives that you take, as some of them can interact with vitamin D.
    • People with kidney or liver diseases should be especially careful when taking vitamin D additives and regularly observed in a doctor.
  1. 2 Interaction with drugs

Vitamin D can interact with some drugs, such as:

  • Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids can reduce calcium absorption and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Vitamin D can help soften these effects.
  • Orlistat: Orlistat is a medicine used to treat obesity, which can reduce the absorption of fat -soluble vitamins, including vitamin D.
  • Diuretics: Some diuretics can increase blood calcium levels, which can increase the risk of hypercalcemia when taking high doses of vitamin D.

It is important to inform your doctor about all the medicines that you take to avoid potential interactions.

Chapter 8: Vitamin D and other aspects of brain health

  1. 1 Vitamin D and mood

Several studies have shown the relationship between vitamin D level and mood. The low level of vitamin D is associated with an increased risk of development of depression and other mood disorders. Vitamin D affects the synthesis of serotonin, neurotransmitter, which regulates mood, sleep, appetite and social behavior. Vitamin D additives can improve mood in people with vitamin D deficiency and depression.

  1. 2 Vitamin D and sleep

Vitamin D can play a role in sleep regulation. The low level of vitamin D is associated with sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and apnea in a dream. Vitamin D affects the synthesis of melatonin, hormone, which regulates the sleeping cycle. Vitamin D additives can improve sleep quality in people with vitamin D.

  1. 3 Vitamin D and neuro butt

Vitamin D has an anti -inflammatory effect and can help reduce the neuro -drill that plays a role in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative diseases. Vitamin D suppresses the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines and promotes the production of anti -inflammatory cytokines.

  1. 4 Vitamin D and traumatic brain damage (TPGM)

Some studies have shown that vitamin D can play the role in restoration after traumatic damage to the brain (TPGM). Vitamin D has a neuroprotective effect and can help restore neurons after TPGM. Further studies are needed to study the influence of vitamin D on recovery after TPGM.

This is a detailed presentation of various aspects of the role of vitamin D in maintaining the memory and health of the brain. The content is designed to be as complete, comprehensive and informative, reflecting the current state of knowledge in this area. Further research can expand our understanding and lead to more effective strategies for using vitamin D to maintain brain health.

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