The relevance of vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms for cancer: a review of the literature.
Köstner K, Denzer N, Müller CS, Klein R, Tilgen W, Reichrath J.
Anticancer Res. 2009 Sep;29(9):3511-36. Review.
PMID: 19667145
CONCLUSION: Significant associations with VDR polymorphisms have been reported in cancer of the breast (Fok1, Bsm1, Taq1, Apa1, poly (A)), prostate (Fok1, Bsm1, Taq1, poly (A)), skin (Fok1, Bsm1, A-1210), colorectum (Fok1, Bsm1), ovary (Fok1, Apa1) and bladder (Fok1), and in renal cell carcinoma (Taq1, Apa1). However, conflicting data have been reported for most malignancies. After careful evaluation of the actual literature, it can be summarized that data indicating an association of VDR polymorphisms and cancer risk are strongest for breast cancer (Bsm1, Fok1), prostate cancer (Fok1) and malignant melanoma (MM) (Fok1). Data indicating an association of VDR polymorphisms and cancer prognosis are strongest for prostate cancer (Fok1), breast cancer (Bsm1, Taq1), MM (Bsm1) and renal cell carcinoma (Taq1).
MedWire News: Calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, has been found to induce the tumor-suppressing protein CCAAT enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP)α, which can inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells, researchers report.
Vitamin D and intervention trials in prostate cancer: from theory to therapy.
Schwartz GG.
Ann Epidemiol. 2009 Feb;19(2):96-102. Epub 2008 Jul 10.
PMID: 18619854
doi:10.1016/j.annepidem.2008.03.007
This suggests that whereas vitamin D (e.g., cholecalciferol) might prevent prostate cancer, existing prostate tumors likely would require treatment with 1,25(OH)(2)D and/or its analogs. The major obstacle to the use of 1,25(OH)(2)D in patients therapeutically is the risk of hypercalcemia. Several maneuvers to reduce this risk, including pulse dosing and the use of less calcemic 1,25(OH)(2)D analogs, have been explored in Phase I-III clinical trials. Once merely a promise, vitamin D-based therapies for prostate cancer may soon be medical practice.
Review and meta-analysis on vitamin D receptor polymorphisms and cancer risk.
Raimondi S, Johansson H, Maisonneuve P, Gandini S.
Carcinogenesis. 2009 Jul;30(7):1170-80. Epub 2009 Apr 29. Review.
PMID: 19403841