TLDR The vitamin D receptor can regulate genes and affect hair and hormone levels without its usual activator.
The study explored the role of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in the absence of its ligand, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3), particularly in hair cycling and parathyroid hormone (PTH) regulation. Using mouse models, researchers found that VDR could facilitate normal hair cycling without 1,25(OH)2D3, suggesting a ligand-independent function. Additionally, VDR appeared to influence PTH secretion independently of 1,25(OH)2D3, as evidenced by higher PTH levels in Cyp27b1 null mice compared to VDR null mice. This indicated that VDR might act as a selective suppressor or de-repressor of gene expression without its ligand, affecting tissues beyond the skin.
25 citations
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August 2014 in “Endocrinology” Researchers created a mouse model of a type of rickets that does not cause hair loss.
107 citations
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March 2014 in “BoneKEy Reports” Mutations in the vitamin D receptor cause hereditary vitamin D-resistant rickets, leading to poor bone health and requiring high calcium doses for treatment.
158 citations
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August 2011 in “Reviews in endocrine and metabolic disorders” Vitamin D and its receptor regulate skin functions like cell growth, immunity, hair cycle, and tumor prevention.
144 citations
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December 2004 in “Molecular Endocrinology” The vitamin D receptor is essential for normal hair growth, even without its usual binding.
277 citations
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July 2002 in “Molecular Endocrinology” Removing part of the vitamin D receptor stops vitamin D from working properly.
25 citations
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August 2014 in “Endocrinology” Researchers created a mouse model of a type of rickets that does not cause hair loss.
104 citations
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May 2003 in “Endocrinology” Lampreys have a functional vitamin D receptor that may help detoxify harmful substances.
62 citations
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January 2009 in “Biochemistry” Vitamin D receptor binds similarly to natural and synthetic ligands, affecting gene regulation.
1533 citations
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October 2008 in “Endocrine reviews” Mice without the vitamin D receptor have bone issues and other health problems, suggesting vitamin D is important for preventing various diseases in humans.
1308 citations
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March 1998 in “Journal of bone and mineral research” The vitamin D receptor is crucial for bone health and affects various body systems, with mutations potentially leading to disease.
139 citations
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February 2014 in “Journal of Advanced Research” Vitamin D is important for skin health and may affect conditions like psoriasis and hair loss, but more research is needed to understand its role fully.
