This Research Topic is the third volume, "Community Series in: The Role of Vitamin D as an Immunomodulator". Please see volume II here.

Vitamin D, a compound classified as both a vitamin and a pre-hormone, plays a crucial role in modulating the immune system. In its active form, calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3), it influences the functional activities of innate and adaptive immune cells, including B-cells, T-cells, antigen-presenting cells, neutrophils, and platelets, all of which express the vitamin D receptor. The synthesis of vitamin D in humans and some animals begins in the skin, where exposure to ultraviolet B radiation converts 7-dehydrocholesterol to previtamin D3, which is then metabolized to its active form. Despite its importance, vitamin D deficiency is a widespread issue, posing a global public health challenge across all age groups. This deficiency is linked to an increased risk of immune-related diseases, prompting the recommendation of vitamin D2 and D3 supplements. Recent studies highlight vitamin D's potential in nutritional immunomodulation, offering protection against infections, allergies, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. However, gaps remain in understanding its full immunomodulatory potential, especially in cases where intrinsic factors hinder its bioactivation.

This research topic aims to explore the immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D, focusing on its potential roles in preventing and treating infections, allergies, autoimmune diseases, cancer, and other inflammation-related conditions. The research will also delve into alternative immunotherapeutic strategies when vitamin D supplementation is not feasible due to intrinsic factors affecting its bioactivation. By addressing these areas, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of vitamin D's role in immune health and its therapeutic potential.

To gather further insights into the immunomodulatory role of vitamin D, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Mechanisms of vitamin D in modulating immune cell function.

- The impact of vitamin D deficiency on immune-related diseases.

- Nutritional interventions using vitamin D for immune health.

- The role of vitamin D in maintaining intestinal epithelial integrity.

- Alternative immunotherapeutic approaches when vitamin D supplementation is ineffective.

- Clinical trials and case studies on vitamin D's immunomodulatory effects.

- Systematic reviews and meta-analyses on vitamin D and immune function.

- The interaction between vitamin D and dietary patterns to explore synergistic effects on immunomodulation and immune health.

- Opportunities for translational research to bridge the gap between experimental findings and clinical applications.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Community Series in : The Role of Vitamin D as an Immunomodulator - Volume III