Molecular effects of vitamin D on cell cycle and oncogenesis

The active metabolite of vitamin D, 1,25 (OH)2D3, exerts its cell cycle regulating effects via binding to VDR (Vitamin D Receptor). This complex forms a heterodimer with RXR (Retinoic X Receptor). The VDR-RXR heterodimer binds to promoter regions of cell cycle regulating genes through a vitamin D response element (VDRE). The tumour suppressor gene cyclin kinase inhibitor (Cki) p21, one of the well known cell cycle regulating genes, is one of the genes regulated in this manner. Its tumour suppressive action is through inhibition of cell division. These molecular biological mechanisms and large epidemiological investigations give strong support for the benefits of vitamin D in preventing colon cancer and prostate cancer.