Molecular basis underlying the therapeutic potential of vitamin D for the treatment of depression and anxiety
Date
2022
Authors
Kouba, Bruna R.
Camargo, Anderson
Gil-Mohapel, Joana
Rodrigues, Ana LĂșcia S.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Abstract
Major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders are common and disabling conditions that
affect millions of people worldwide. Despite being different disorders, symptoms of depression and
anxiety frequently overlap in individuals, making them difficult to diagnose and treat adequately.
Therefore, compounds capable of exerting beneficial effects against both disorders are of special
interest. Noteworthily, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of developing
depression and anxiety, and individuals with these psychiatric conditions have low serum
levels of this vitamin. Indeed, in the last few years, vitamin D has gained attention for its many
functions that go beyond its effects on calciumâphosphorus metabolism. Particularly, antioxidant,
anti-inflammatory, pro-neurogenic, and neuromodulatory properties seem to contribute to its antidepressant
and anxiolytic effects. Therefore, in this review, we highlight the main mechanisms
that may underlie the potential antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of vitamin D. In addition, we
discuss preclinical and clinical studies that support the therapeutic potential of this vitamin for the
management of these disorders.
Description
Keywords
anti-inflammatory effect, anxiety, depression, neuromodulator, pro-neurogenic effect, vitamin D
Citation
Kouba, B., Camargo, A., Gil-Mohapel, J., & Rodrigues, A. (2022). âMolecular basis underlying the therapeutic potential of vitamin D for the treatment of depression and anxiety.â International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(13), 7077. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23137077