Non-musculoskeletal benefits of vitamin D.

The aim of this study is to determine and critically evaluate the plausible relationships of vitamin D with extra-skeletal tissues in humans. Severe vitamin D deficiency results in rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults; these beneficial effects in the musculoskeletal system and certain physiological functions are well understood. Nevertheless, mounting reports support additional beneficial effects of vitamin D, outside the musculoskeletal system. This review explores the recent advances in knowledge about the non-skeletal effects of vitamin D. Peer-reviewed papers were extracted from research databases using key words, to assess correlations between vitamin D and extra-skeletal diseases and conditions. As per the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA); general interpretations of results are included; taking into consideration the broader evidence and implications. This review summarizes current knowledge of the effects of vitamin D status on extra-skeletal tissues with special attention given to relationships between vitamin D status and various diseases commonly affecting adults; the effects of intervention with vitamin D and exposure to sunlight. Evidence suggests that vitamin D facilitates the regulation of blood pressure; and cardiac; endothelial; and smooth muscle cell functions; playing an important role in cardiovascular protection. In addition; 1,25(OH)2D improves immunity; subdues inflammation; and reduces the incidence and severity of common cancers; autoimmune diseases and infectious diseases. Almost all adequately powered; epidemiological and biological studies that use; adequate doses of vitamin D supplementation in D-deficient populations have reported favorable outcomes. These studies have concluded that optimizing 25(OH)D status improves the functionality of bodily systems; reduces comorbidities; improves the quality of life; and increases survival. Although accumulating evidence supports biological associations of vitamin D sufficiency with improved physical and mental functions; no definitive evidence exists from well-designed; statistically powered; randomized controlled clinical trials. Nevertheless, most studies point to significant protective effects of vitamin D in humans when the minimum 25(OH)D serum level exceeds 30ng/mL and is maintained throughout the year.

The Relationship between the Serum Selenium Concentration and Glutathione Peroxidase in Red Blood Cell in Patients with Pregnancy Induced Hypertension / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective To study the relationship between the serum selenium(Se) concentra- tion and glutathione peroxidase(GSH-PX) levels in red blood cell in patients with pregnancy induced hypertension(PIH).Methods The serum Se concentration was measured by atomic absorbability assay and the GSH-PX levels were measured by cellular chemiluminescence assay.49 cases of PIH and 34 normal pregnant women were measured for serum Se concentration and GSH-PX levels in red blood cell from April,1994 to December,1994.Results The serum Se concentration and GSH-PX levels in red blood cell is different betwen PIH and control group.Compared serum Se concentration and GSH-PX levels were significant lower in the PIH patients than in the control subjects (P