Jonathan D. Smith, Department of Cell Biology, NC10, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland OH 44195. E-mail smithj4@ccf.org
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HDL-cholesterol is the "good cholesterol" because of its reverse cholesterol transport and antiinflammatory activities. However, HDL and apolipoprotein A-I can lose their protective activities through changes in protein or lipid composition as well as protein modifications. Assays for dysfunctional HDL could potentially be used as a criterion for preventative therapy.
This article discusses new Duke University research showing a highly significant
correlation (p = 0.007) between higher vitamin D intake and MRI brain lesions
(http://www.fasebj.org/cgi/content/meeting_abstract/21/6/A1072), as well as the potential for
lesion reversal. These lesions have been associated with cognitive impairment, stroke,
psychiatric disorders and mortality. This article also discusses the levels of vitamin D and
calcium needed to avoid osteoporosis and vascular calcification in the light of new research on
blockage of the vitamin D receptor due to bacterial products and elevated 25D.