Effects of calcitriol on the immune system: new possibilities in the treatment of glomerulonephritis

1. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3), the hormonal form of vitamin D, is widely appreciated to play a central role in calcium and phosphate homeostasis. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that the sterol also play an important role in the regulation of cellular growth, haematopoietic tissues and the immune system, as well as in the modulation of hormone secretion by several endocrine glands. 2. In the present review, some of the mechanisms by which 1,25(OH)2D3 regulates immune function are highlighted. Moreover, a number of studies on the effects of calcitriol in several experimental animal models of renal disease are reported, suggesting new possibilities in the therapy of glomerulonephritis.