Biopolymers and cell. 2010; 26 (2): 97 - 104
Vitamin D – a novel role in pregnancy
Chander P. Arora1, 2, C. J. Hobel1, 2
1Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Burns-Allen Research Institute and the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine 8635, West Third St., Ste 160W, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90048
2David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles 10833, Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA, 90095
Vitamin D regulates placental development and function. It is a potent regulator of the immune system- stimulating antimicrobial responses while suppressing inflammation. Its deficiency has been linked to increased risk of serious chronic and inflammatory diseases. Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy increases susceptibility to infection and inflammation, leading, in turn, to outcome like preterm birth or preeclampsia. Pregnant women with darker skin pigmentation are more likely to be vitamin D deficient, particularly when living in regions with low exposure to sunlight. It is possible that during pregnancy, a primary non-infectious inflammatory process is activated by vitamin D deficiency. Combined assessment of vitamin D deficiency and inflammatory markers in early pregnancy or during different stages of pregnancy may facilitate the recognition of the risk of complications.
Keywords: vitamin D, pregnancy, immune response.