Although vitamin D was discovered more than 100 years ago, our understanding of how vitamin D impacts human health continues to evolve. Vitamin D was originally identified as a factor that prevented the bone disease rickets but in recent years there has been growing interest in the possible benefits of vitamin D for human health beyond the skeleton. In particular, vitamin D has been shown to be a potent regulator of both innate and adaptive immune function, suggesting that vitamin D-deficiency may predispose to some infectious and autoimmune diseases.
This presentation will outline the historical basis for a link between vitamin D and the immune system – notably strong connections with the respiratory disease tuberculosis. The key focus will be on the mechanistic basis for vitamin D as an immunoregulator, including pathogen activation of intracrine vitamin D metabolism, and the selective targeting of antibacterial and antiviral immunity by active 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. The effects of vitamin D on adaptive T cell function and inflammation will also be described.
What will I gain from this webinar?
- You will be able to describe the fundamental mechanisms that link vitamin D with immune function
- You will be able understand the rationale for studies showing association between low vitamin D status and immune disorders.
- You will be able to critically evaluate the basis for use of vitamin D supplements to support improved immune health, and the type of trial needed to effectively assess this.