Vitamin D Receptor, UVR, and Skin Cancer: A Potential Protective Mechanism

The document discussed the potential protective role of the Vitamin D receptor (VDR) against UVR-induced skin cancer. It highlighted that VDR might enhance DNA damage response mechanisms, such as nucleotide excision repair, which are crucial for repairing UV-induced DNA damage. Studies showed that VDR null mice were more susceptible to UV-induced skin tumors, with all VDR null mice developing tumors compared to only 4 of 23 wild-type mice. The findings suggested that VDR might regulate signaling pathways like Hedgehog and Wnt, and act as a tumor suppressor. The document emphasized the need for further research to clarify the mechanisms and extent of VDR's protective actions.