ELI5; How is calcitriol deficiency a risk factor for multiple sclerosis?
In: Biology
The correlation is there alright, calcitriol (active vitamin D) is associated with lower risk of MS and better prognosis and quality of life for people with MS. The mechanism is unclear but so far the evidence is point to its role as an anti inflammatory cytokine. Most people view calcitriol as the calcium guy, but no one talks about its potent anti inflammatory effects. It’s actually heavily implicated in the immune system and is good at helping you fight pathogens as well as reducing inflammation. MS is an autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks your body, so it’s quite easy to see how something that reduces inflammation can help prevent MS or better its symptoms. But there’s a lot we don’t know and it’s still under extensive study.
Source: PhD student with a project related to calcitriol and the immune system.
Edit: English
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