The Neurosteroid Hormone Vitamin D: Modern Prospects

Vitamin D (calciferol) is a key vitamin playing an importantrole in the regulation of the musculoskeletal, immune, cardiovascularand nervous systems. Vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for multiplebrain disorders. Mounting evidence shows robust neuroprotectiveproperties of vitamin D, as well as its ability to improve neuronalfunction and reduce brain disorders. Here, we focus on the latest clinicaland preclinical (rodent and zebrafish) data on the role of vitaminD as a neurosteroid hormone, including its role in regulating thesynthesis and functions of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors. Abetter insight into the role of vitamin D in brain function maylead to novel approaches to the treatment and prevention of vitaminD deficiency-related brain disorders.