Current therapies in alleviating liver disorders and cancers with a special focus on the potential of vitamin D

Abstract Background Liver dysfunction is a topic of global concern with many advancing therapies being researched. Though vitamin D takes a center place, other therapies especially nutritional are also gaining ground. Vitamin D has gone beyond its role in skeletal disorders by showcasing its associa...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Shahida Khan, Ashraf Ali, Sarah Khan, Ahmed Bakillah, Ghazi Damanhouri, Aziz Khan, Ahmed Makki, Ibtehal AlAnsari, Naheed Banu
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2018-02-01
Series:Nutrition & Metabolism
Subjects:
Online Access:http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12986-018-0251-5
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Summary:Abstract Background Liver dysfunction is a topic of global concern with many advancing therapies being researched. Though vitamin D takes a center place, other therapies especially nutritional are also gaining ground. Vitamin D has gone beyond its role in skeletal disorders by showcasing its associations in other metabolic dysfunctions too. Result Epidemiological evidences show a correlation between the status of vitamin D and different forms of cancer. Vitamin D receptors and alterations in gene expression appear decisive in the development of chronic liver disorders. Nutritional status therefore plays a significant role in avoiding the complications related to liver dysfunctions, making it mandatory in maintaining vitamin D sufficiency in the body. Therapies with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, amino acids, steroids also render benefits which could be further explored. Recent research on the progression of certain forms of liver cancer using vitamin D analogs like Seocalcitol EB 1089 has shown good promise. Conclusion The anti-inflammatory and immuno- regulatory properties of vitamin D makes its analogs, suitable candidates of better choice for the prevention and treatment of liver disorders and cancer.
ISSN:1743-7075