bims-vitmet Biomed News
on Vitamin metabolism
Issue of 2025–05–04
sixteen papers selected by
Onurkan Karabulut, Berkeley City College
  1. Riboflavin Deficiency Associated With Psoriasis: Insights From Population and Transcriptome.
  2. The Role of Folic Acid in DNA Methylation and Breast Cancer.
  3. Is folic acid associated with lung cancer development? A cross-sectional study in NHANES.
  4. Effect of Combined Vitamin C and Thiamine Therapy on Myocardial and Inflammatory Markers in Cardiac Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.
  5. Unveiling vitamin C: A new hope in the treatment of diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma (Review).
  6. Serum vitamin C associated with lipids levels in children and adolescents: a national cross-sectional study.
  7. The role of vitamin D and the VDR gene polymorphism in sepsis risk and mortality: a systematic review.
  8. Role of vitamin D in the development and progression of diabetic kidney disease: an overview of meta-analyses.
  9. Influence of Vitamin D on Developmental Defects of Enamel (DDE) in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review.
  10. Vitamin D and Colorectal Cancer Prevention: Immunological Mechanisms, Inflammatory Pathways, and Nutritional Implications.
  11. The Critical Role of Vitamin D Supplementation for Skeletal and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Preterm Neonates.
  12. Renal protective effects of vitamin E for drug-induced kidney injury: a meta-analysis.
  13. Vitamin K2 deficiency associated with short stature in children: a cross-sectional study.
  14. State-of-the-Art and Future Challenges for Nutritional Interventions in Facioscapulohumeral Dystrophy: A Narrative Review.
  15. Nutritional insights into pulmonary fibrosis: a comprehensive review on the impact of vitamins.
  16. The association of vitamin deficiency with depression risk in late-life depression: a review.
  1. Exp Dermatol. 2025 May;34(5): e70106
    Riboflavin Deficiency Associated With Psoriasis: Insights From Population and Transcriptome.
    Ang Li, Feilong Chen, Qingyue Xia, Baoyi Liu, Jingkai Xu, Xuejiao Song, Tao Xu, Yong Cui.
      Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterised by oxidative stress in the epidermis. Riboflavin (vitamin B2), an essential vitamin with antioxidant properties, may play a role in modulating this condition. Using data from three cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we analysed 13 825 U.S. citizens, including 409 (2.96%) cases of psoriasis. A fully adjusted weighted logistic regression model revealed that psoriasis was associated with decreased riboflavin intake: for each natural-log unit increase in riboflavin intake, the risk of psoriasis decreased by an average of 16% (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.73-0.96). This association was particularly significant among middle-aged and elderly people (> 40 years). Transcriptome analysis of data series GSE41662 and GSE121212 demonstrated upregulation of riboflavin metabolising genes (SLC52A2, SLC52A3, RFK, FLAD1 and SLC25A32) in psoriatic lesional skin. In an in vitro psoriatic keratinocyte model, riboflavin reduction induced upregulation of inflammatory cytokines, ROS response and delayed keratinisation. These findings indicate that psoriasis is significantly associated with decreased riboflavin intake, and riboflavin metabolism is activated in psoriasis. The protective effect of riboflavin on psoriasis merits further attention.
    Keywords:  NHANES; diet; psoriasis; riboflavin; vitamin B2
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1111/exd.70106
  2. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2025 Mar 28. 95(2): 26221
    The Role of Folic Acid in DNA Methylation and Breast Cancer.
    Samantha Rebeca de la Torre Guzmán, Brenda Pelayo-Chávez, Andrea Marlene García-Muro, Ernesto Soto-Reyes, Josefina Yoaly Sánchez-López.
      Folate and folic acid (FA) are two forms of vitamin B9, a B-complex nutrient essential for the human body. Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 and is found in foods such as citrus fruits, leafy green vegetables, and beans. In contrast, FA is the synthetic form and is commonly found in supplements and added to fortified foods. The metabolism of folate and FA plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis and methylation; therefore, understanding the mechanism through which a decrease in folate and FA consumption affects the development of breast cancer (BC) is important. DNA hypermethylation can inhibit the transcription of tumor suppressor genes, while DNA hypomethylation may have the same effect and activate oncogene transcription. However, some genetic variants exist, such as rs1801133 and rs1801131 in the MTHFR gene and rs1051266 in the RFC gene. The MTHFR gene encodes an enzyme that facilitates the utilization of folate to support essential bodily functions, while the RFC gene is responsible for transporting folate into cells and acts as an anion exchanger. Both genes intervene in the transport and absorption of FA and are related to an increased risk of cancer. Studies investigating the relationship between FA and BC often rely on in vitro and in vivo models; however, the findings may not fully translate to humans due to significant physiological and metabolic differences across species. This article explores how changes in FA metabolism due to malabsorption defects, a deficient diet or genetic variants may impact methylation processes and their relationship with BC.
    Keywords:  DNA methylation; breast cancer; folate; folic acid
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.31083/IJVNR26221
  3. BMC Pulm Med. 2025 Apr 30. 25(1): 208
    Is folic acid associated with lung cancer development? A cross-sectional study in NHANES.
    Binbin Li, Fei Xu, Xuxiang Lu, Yang Zhang, Fei Jing, Wei Zhang.
       OBJECTIVE: The folic acid is used as an adjuvant dietary supplement in cancer treatment, but its potential benefits or adverse effects in lung cancer (LC) management remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the relationship between different forms of folic acid and LC based on a national population-based survey and conduct a thorough analysis of the potential use of folic acid in cancer treatment.
    METHODS: Cross-sectional analysis from the 2007-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) was assessed. A cohort of 27,631 participants was identified and weighted. Information on folic acid levels and malignancy was determined through laboratory tests and interviews. To address potential confounding variables, a 1:2 propensity score matching (PSM) was employed, and 201 participants were included. This study utilized restricted cubic splines (RCS) to explore the none-linear relationship between various forms of folic acid and the incidence of LC.
    RESULTS: Significant associations were observed between clinical characteristics of the participants and LC in both unweighted and weighted analyses. Following PSM, total folate, dietary folate, 5-formyltetrahydrofolate (5-formylTHF) and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate (5,10-methenylTHF) were significantly associated with LC risk (p < 0.05). The RCS analysis suggested that there was a significant non-linear association between 5,10-methenylTHF and the odds of developing LC. Additionally, total folate, folic acid, 5,10-methenylTHF, and RBC folate influenced the likelihood of developing LC in a certain dose range.
    CONCLUSIONS: The development of LC was associated with total folate, dietary folate, 5-formylTHF and 5,10-methenylTHF levels. Folic acid, total folate, 5,10-methenylTHF, and RBC folate were positively correlated with LC within a certain range.
    Keywords:  Cross-sectional study; Folic acid; Lung cancer; NHANES; Restricted cubic splines
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1186/s12890-025-03638-5
  4. Nutrients. 2025 Mar 13. pii: 1006. [Epub ahead of print]17(6):
    Effect of Combined Vitamin C and Thiamine Therapy on Myocardial and Inflammatory Markers in Cardiac Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.
    Mantana Saetang, Wirat Wasinwong, Maliwan Oofuvong, Jutarat Tanasansutthiporn, Laortip Rattanapittayaporn, Sutthasinee Petsakul, Pongsanae Duangpakdee, Puripong Rodneam, Parin Boonthum, Supphamongkhon Khunakanan, Chaitong Churuangsuk, Wilaiwan Sriwimol, Amphan Chantarokon, Kanjana Nuanjun, Dararat Yongsata.
      Background: Oxidative stress and systemic inflammation during cardiac surgery can lead to postoperative complications. Although vitamin C and thiamine (vitamin B1) have individually demonstrated protective effects, their combined effects remain underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of combined vitamin C and B1 therapy versus that of vitamin C alone in reducing inflammatory and cardiac biomarkers and improving postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Methods: In this prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial, 64 patients scheduled for elective cardiac surgery at a tertiary care center were randomized to receive either 1000 mg vitamin C or a combination of 1000 mg vitamin C and 100 mg vitamin B1 at four perioperative time points. Primary outcomes included changes in inflammatory biomarkers [C-reactive protein, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and white blood cells], and cardiac biomarkers [creatine kinase-MB, Troponin-I, and lactate dehydrogenase]. Secondary outcomes included hemodynamic parameters and left ventricular function. Results: Compared with vitamin C alone, combined vitamin B1 and vitamin C significantly reduced postoperative cardiac biomarker levels. IL-6 levels were significantly lower immediately in the combined group; however, this effect was not sustained at 24 h post-surgery. Up to 24 h after surgery, no significant differences in hemodynamic stability or left ventricular ejection were observed between the groups. Notably, the combined therapy group demonstrated a lower incidence of postoperative arrhythmias and shorter dobutamine duration within 24 postoperatively. Conclusions: Combined vitamin C and B1 therapy significantly reduced markers of myocardial injury and early inflammatory responses (IL-6) in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, suggesting its potential as a protective agent.
    Keywords:  cardiac biomarkers; cardiac surgery; myocardial injury; oxidative stress; thiamine; vitamin C
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17061006
  5. Int J Oncol. 2025 May;pii: 40. [Epub ahead of print]66(5):
    Unveiling vitamin C: A new hope in the treatment of diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma (Review).
    Chunxiao Ren, Yaqiong Li, Mingrui Li, Yuqun Wang.
      Lymphoma is a malignancy of the immune system, which originates from lymphatic tissues and lymph nodes. Diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a common type of non‑Hodgkin lymphoma, occurring in 30‑40% of all cases, which has persistent clinical challenges. The treatment of DLBCL is challenging due to its diverse genetic and biological characteristics and complex clinical physiology. Despite advancements in overall prognosis, 20‑25% of patients continue to experience relapse and 10‑15% of patients experience refractory disease. Vitamin C is a water‑soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties and notable pharmacological activity, with potential applications in cancer therapy. Pharmacological doses of vitamin C (1‑4 g/kg) can induce apoptosis in malignant cells by inhibiting and/or reversing gene mutations that are associated with hematological malignancies. For example, 10‑25% of patients with myeloid malignancies have tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 2 (TET2) gene mutations and vitamin C can regulate blood stem cell frequency and leukemia production by enhancing TET2 function. Consequently, pharmacological doses of vitamin C can inhibit the development and progression of hematological malignancies. Therefore, the present review aimed to investigate the role of vitamin C in the pathophysiology and treatment of DLBCL, whilst highlighting the potential challenges and future perspectives.
    Keywords:  ascorbic acid; diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma; tumor microenvironment; vitamin C
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3892/ijo.2025.5746
  6. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2025 Apr 30. 22(1): 33
    Serum vitamin C associated with lipids levels in children and adolescents: a national cross-sectional study.
    Xiaoqi Su, Shanliang Zhu, Ye Chen, Xin Zhou, Jun Chen, Nishant Patel, Xuming Mo.
       BACKGROUND: The relationship between serum vitamin C (sVC) and blood lipids in adolescents in the US has not been thoroughly studied. This study investigates the correlation between sVC and blood lipids among adolescents using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
    METHODS: Data from the NHANES 2003-2006 and 2017-2018 cycles, encompassing 4,965 participants aged 12-19 years, were analyzed. sVC served as the independent variable and blood lipids as the dependent variables. Multiple linear regression models assessed the relationship between sVC and blood lipids, with subgroup analyses based on sex, age, and race. Additionally, smooth curve fitting and saturation threshold analysis were employed to explore nonlinear relationships.
    RESULTS: Adjusted analyses revealed a positive correlation between sVC and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (β = 2.77, 95%CI 2.06-3.47), with no significant association with total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), or triglycerides. This positive correlation persisted across subgroups divided by age, gender, and race (p < 0.05). The nonlinear relationship between sVC and HDL-C was characterized by an inverted U-shaped curve in adolescents aged 12-15 years, males, females, and non-Hispanic Whites.
    CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms a positive association between sVC levels and HDL-C in adolescents, suggesting that higher vitamin C intake/status may be associated with a higher HDL-C in adolescents.
    Keywords:  Adolescents; Blood lipids; HDL-cholesterol; NHANES; Serum vitamin C
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-025-00931-2
  7. Osong Public Health Res Perspect. 2025 Apr 29.
    The role of vitamin D and the VDR gene polymorphism in sepsis risk and mortality: a systematic review.
    Wiwi Jaya, Sumarno Reto Prawiro, Hani Susianti, Aswoco Andyk Asmoro.
       Objectives: Vitamin D regulates immune function, cell proliferation, and differentiation. Its deficiency is linked to sepsis, although the causal relationship remains unclear. Studies suggest a strong correlation between FokI polymorphism and sepsis in the context of vitamin D deficiency. This study examined the association between vitamin D levels, the VDR FokI polymorphism, and sepsis risk through a systematic review and meta-analysis.
    Methods: Relevant articles from 2014-2024 were identified from various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane. A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the difference in vitamin D levels between the sepsis and control groups, as well as the relationship between VDR FokI genotypes (TT, CT, CC) and sepsis risk.
    Results: Vitamin D levels in sepsis patients were consistently lower than in the control group, with a mean difference of -4.17 ng/mL (95% confidence interval, -7.87 to -0.47; p=0.03). However, the relationship between VDR FokI genotype and sepsis risk was not statistically significant (p>0.05), although several individual studies showed a positive correlation. High heterogeneity was found in the analysis of vitamin D levels (I²=100%) and FokI genotypes (I²=91%), which affected the interpretation of the results.
    Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is a potential risk factor for sepsis, while the relationship between the VDR FokI polymorphism and sepsis risk requires further investigation. These findings highlight the importance of early detection of vitamin D deficiency as a preventive strategy in at-risk populations, although additional studies with more standardized designs are needed to definitively confirm this relationship.
    Keywords:  FokI; Polymorphism, genetic; Sepsis; VDR gene; Vitamin D
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.24171/j.phrp.2025.0006
  8. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab. 2025 ;16 20420188251319476
    Role of vitamin D in the development and progression of diabetic kidney disease: an overview of meta-analyses.
    Ashna Chackochan, Muhammed Rashid, Swetha R Reghunath, Pooja Gopal Poojari, Girish Thunga, Shivashankara Kaniyoor Nagri, Vasudeva Guddattu, Revathi P Shenoy, Vishnu Prasad Shenoy, Leelavathi D Acharya.
       Background: The effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains controversial. Our review tries to provide a comprehensive summary of all the relevant articles in the area to assess the association of vitamin D deficiency with the development of DKD and the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the progression of DKD.
    Methods: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Web of Science were accessed from inception till June 2024 to obtain all the relevant meta-analyses assessing the function of vitamin D in the onset and prognosis of DKD. The summary data were extracted by two independent reviewers. A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) 2 tool was used for the assessment of the methodological quality of the included meta-analyses.
    Results: A total of 4579 articles were obtained from 5 databases in the initial search, of which 8 meta-analyses were included for the evidence synthesis. The methodological quality of the retrieved articles ranged from critically low to high. Serum vitamin D levels were significantly correlated with the prevalence of DKD. The review suggested that vitamin D supplementation could help in reducing proteinuria. However, no such changes were observed in other renal function parameters of DKD patients following vitamin D supplementation.
    Conclusion: The current evidence indicates that vitamin D supplementation could be beneficial in reducing proteinuria among DKD patients.PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022375194.
    Keywords:  diabetic kidney disease; evidence-based medicine; systematic review; vitamin D
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1177/20420188251319476
  9. Nutrients. 2025 Apr 10. pii: 1317. [Epub ahead of print]17(8):
    Influence of Vitamin D on Developmental Defects of Enamel (DDE) in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review.
    Paula Piekoszewska-Ziętek, Karolina Spodzieja, Dorota Olczak-Kowalczyk.
      Background/Objectives: This systematic review aims to investigate the potential association between vitamin D levels and the occurrence of developmental enamel defects (DDE) in children, including conditions like molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) and hypomineralized second primary molars (HSPMs). DDEs, which occur during tooth development, can result in significant aesthetic and functional issues, and their exact etiology remains unclear, with both genetic and environmental factors contributing. Among environmental factors, vitamin D deficiency has been proposed as a possible risk factor, given its role in enamel mineralization. Methods: A thorough literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Embase. The search strategy included terms such as "vitamin D", "vitamin D deficiency", "developmental defects of enamel", "enamel hypoplasia", "molar-incisor hypomineralization", and "hypomineralized second primary molars". Studies were included if they were original human observational research (cohort, case-control, or cross-sectional) conducted in children under 18 years of age or involving maternal-child cohorts. Ten studies were included in the analysis, with a total of 15,891 participants. The primary data extracted from the selected studies included the following: study design, participants' age, sample size, vitamin D status in relation to developmental defects of enamel, and statistical significance Results: The findings were mixed, with only a few studies suggesting a significant association between low vitamin D levels and the presence of DDEs. Specifically, one study found a link between insufficient maternal vitamin D levels during pregnancy and an increased number of teeth affected by MIH in children. However, the majority of the studies did not report a significant association. Conclusions: This review concludes that while there is some evidence to suggest a possible relationship between vitamin D and DDEs, more research is needed to confirm these findings and better understand the underlying mechanisms.
    Keywords:  HSPM; MIH; developmental enamel defects; vitamin D; vitamin D deficiency
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17081317
  10. Nutrients. 2025 Apr 15. pii: 1351. [Epub ahead of print]17(8):
    Vitamin D and Colorectal Cancer Prevention: Immunological Mechanisms, Inflammatory Pathways, and Nutritional Implications.
    Mónika Fekete, Andrea Lehoczki, Ágnes Szappanos, Virág Zábó, Csilla Kaposvári, Alpár Horváth, Árpád Farkas, Vince Fazekas-Pongor, Dávid Major, Ágnes Lipécz, Tamás Csípő, János Tamás Varga.
      Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the regulation of the immune system, with immunomodulatory effects that are key in the prevention of colorectal cancer (CRC). Over the past decades, research has shown that this steroid hormone impacts much more than bone health, significantly influencing immune responses. Vitamin D enhances immune organ functions such as the spleen and lymph nodes, and boosts T-cell activity, which is essential in defending the body against tumors. Additionally, vitamin D mitigates inflammatory responses closely linked to cancer development, reducing the inflammation that contributes to CRC. It acts via vitamin D receptors (VDRs) expressed on immune cells, modulating immune responses. Adequate vitamin D levels influence gene expression related to inflammation and cell proliferation, inhibiting tumor development. Vitamin D also activates mechanisms that suppress cancer cell survival, proliferation, migration, and metastasis. Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with an increased risk of CRC, with deficiency correlating with higher disease incidence. Lifestyle factors, such as a diet high in red meat and calories but low in fiber, fruits, and vegetables, as well as physical inactivity, contribute significantly to CRC risk. Insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake are also linked to disease occurrence and poorer clinical outcomes. Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels and adequate dietary intake is crucial in preventing CRC and improving patient prognosis. This review explores the role of vitamin D in immune regulation and summarizes findings from randomized clinical trials assessing the effects of vitamin D supplementation on CRC outcomes.
    Keywords:  CRC prevention; carcinogenesis; colorectal cancer; immunomodulation; inflammation; nutrition; vitamin D
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17081351
  11. Nutrients. 2025 Apr 19. pii: 1381. [Epub ahead of print]17(8):
    The Critical Role of Vitamin D Supplementation for Skeletal and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Preterm Neonates.
    Roberta Leonardi, Carmine Mattia, Nunzia Decembrino, Agata Polizzi, Martino Ruggieri, Pasqua Betta.
      Background/Objectives: Metabolic bone disease of prematurity (MBDP) is a multifactorial disorder resulting from disrupted transplacental mineral transfer and postnatal nutritional deficits, particularly affecting preterm neonates born before 32 weeks of gestation or weighing under 1500 g. Although substantial research has focused on skeletal outcomes, few studies have explored the association between MBDP and neonatal neurological impairment. This narrative review is the first to integrate the pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic methods, and preventive strategies for MBDP, while simultaneously investigating its potential impact on neurodevelopment. Methods: A narrative review of recent peer-reviewed studies, systematic reviews, and clinical trials was performed focusing on biochemical markers (alkaline phosphatase, FGF23, calcium, and phosphorus), emerging tools such as bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and the effects of early nutritional interventions on both skeletal and neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants (n = seven included articles). Results: Early elevations in ALP, particularly when combined with low serum phosphorus and FGF23 levels, provide sensitive markers for identifying MBDP. Furthermore, insufficient vitamin D levels during gestation and in the neonatal period have been associated with increased risks of seizures, hypotonia, and developmental delays. Studies suggest that enhanced vitamin D supplementation in preterm infants (up to 800 IU/day) may improve mineral absorption and bone formation and confer neuroprotective benefits through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. Conclusions: This is the first review on the neurological implications of biochemical actors of MBDP. As a result, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, including vitamin D supplementation, can improve bone and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Future prospective studies are required to standardize diagnostic criteria and optimize therapeutic regimens for enhanced long-term benefits.
    Keywords:  metabolic bone disease of prematurity; neonatal neurology; premature infants; vitamin D supplementation
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17081381
  12. Front Pharmacol. 2025 ;16 1461792
    Renal protective effects of vitamin E for drug-induced kidney injury: a meta-analysis.
    Lingfei Meng, Shengmao Liu, Wenpeng Cui.
       Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a key clinical condition that has puzzled clinicians for many years since there is currently no efficient drug therapy. Vitamin E is found to exert a vital antioxidant role and can protect the kidney. However, clinical studies that analyze the correlation between vitamin E and AKI are scarce, and no consistent conclusions are reported from current studies. Therefore, this study was performed to evaluate the impact of vitamin E on treating AKI.
    Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were comprehensively searched on 27 December 2023. Qualified studies were selected following the eligibility criteria. The incidence of AKI, serum creatinine, and urea nitrogen levels after vitamin E treatment were evaluated. Then, the data were combined with a fixed- or random-effects model, depending on the heterogeneity test results.
    Results: Six eligible randomized controlled trials that used vitamin E for the prevention of kidney injury were included. According to our pooled analysis, vitamin E elevated eGFR levels [MD: 0.36; 95% CI (0.19, 0.53), p = 0.000], reduced serum creatinine levels [MD: -0.32; 95% CI (-0.48, 0.16), p = 0.000], and effectively inhibited the occurrence of AKI [RR: 0.69; 95% CI (0.49, 0.98), p = 0.036].
    Conclusion: Vitamin E elevates eGFR levels, reduces serum creatinine levels, and efficiently suppresses AKI occurrence. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024499597, identifier CRD42024499597.
    Keywords:  acute kidney injury; anti-oxidation; meta; nephrotoxin; vitamin E
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2025.1461792
  13. BMC Pediatr. 2025 May 01. 25(1): 348
    Vitamin K2 deficiency associated with short stature in children: a cross-sectional study.
    Yanjie Shen, Geyong Shi, Shumei Wen, Wei Luo, Ke Wang.
       BACKGROUND: Short stature in children is a common concern that can result from various underlying conditions. While factors such as growth hormone deficiency and nutritional deficiencies are well-known contributors, the role of vitamin K2 (VK2) in the development of short stature remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the association between VK2 status and short stature in children.
    METHODS: A total of 730 children aged 3-16 years were enrolled and divided into three groups: short stature group (n = 191), near-short stature group (n = 357), and normal stature group (n = 182). Clinical characteristics and growth-related indicators including serum VK2 levels, bone mineral density (BMD), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-(OH)D) were collected. VK2 was analyzed both as a categorical variable (VK2 deficiency vs. normal status) and as a continuous variable, logistic regression models were applied to assess the association between VK2 status and short stature using both approaches. Correlations between VK2 status and other growth-related indicators were also examined.
    RESULTS: The prevalence of VK2 deficiency was higher in children with short stature (80.6%) and near-short stature (64.7%) compared to those with normal stature (32.4%) (P < 0.05). Multiple logistic regression models showed that higher serum VK2 levels were significantly associated with a decreased risk of short stature (aOR = 0.005, 95% CI: 0.001-0.036) and near-short stature (aOR = 0.023, 95% CI: 0.006-0.085); and VK2 deficiency was significantly associated with increased risk of short stature (aOR = 5.934, 95% CI: 3.372-10.443) and near-short stature (aOR = 3.233, 95% CI: 2.095-4.989) after adjusting for covariates. Additionally, serum VK2 levels were positively correlated with IGF-1-SDS and 25(OH)D (P < 0.05).
    CONCLUSIONS: VK2 deficiency was significantly associated with an increased risk of short stature in children. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to elucidate the causal relationship between VK2 deficiency and growth disorders in pediatric populations.
    Keywords:  Children; Short stature; Vitamin K2
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-025-05699-1
  14. Nutrients. 2025 Mar 17. pii: 1056. [Epub ahead of print]17(6):
    State-of-the-Art and Future Challenges for Nutritional Interventions in Facioscapulohumeral Dystrophy: A Narrative Review.
    Venere Quintiero, Oscar Crisafulli, Daniele Diotti, Rossella Tupler, Massimo Negro, Emanuela Lavaselli, Giuseppe D'Antona.
      Facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD), the second most common inherited muscular dystrophy in adulthood, is characterized by progressive muscle loss, accompanied by an increase in fat mass. Beyond these alterations in body composition, which contribute to the risk of sarcopenic obesity, FSHD is associated with systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. These interconnected mechanisms may worsen muscle atrophy, leading to a decline in physical efficiency and quality of life. While the therapeutic benefits of physical therapy and exercise have been investigated, the impact of dietary interventions remains underexplored. Given the established role of nutrition in managing various chronic diseases, there is growing interest in understanding how it might influence the clinical management of FSHD. By addressing current gaps in the literature, this review aims to investigate the potential role of dietary patterns and specific nutrients in modulating muscle metabolism within the context of FSHD. Some studies have indicated various compounds (flavonoids, curcumin, L-carnitine, coenzyme Q10, and omega-3), vitamins (C and E), and minerals (zinc and selenium) with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as promising treatment strategies for FSHD. Instead, few data regarding the effects of proteins and creatine supplementation are available. Furthermore, the potential benefits of essentials amino acids, β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate, and vitamin D in contrasting muscle atrophy and enhancing muscle function remain unexplored. Despite these preliminary findings, the existing body of evidence is limited. Identifying novel therapeutic strategies to complement existing treatments could provide a more comprehensive management framework, aimed at improving the long-term health outcomes and quality of life of FSHD patients.
    Keywords:  FSHD; antioxidants; bioactive compounds; creatine; leucine; muscle atrophy; nutrition; proteins; supplements
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17061056
  15. Front Nutr. 2025 ;12 1525408
    Nutritional insights into pulmonary fibrosis: a comprehensive review on the impact of vitamins.
    Yaqian Qu, Youliang Zhao.
      Pulmonary fibrosis is a fatal interstitial disease characterized by diffuse alveolitis, abnormal fibroblast proliferation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation, resulting in structural lung destruction and impaired lung function. Numerous studies have demonstrated that vitamins appear to play a crucial role in regulating inflammatory responses, cell differentiation, redox homeostasis, and collagen synthesis. Beyond their conventional nutritional functions, specific vitamins have recently been found to modulate various biological processes involved in pulmonary fibrosis. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding regarding the impact of vitamins on pulmonary fibrotic disease.
    Keywords:  EMT; dietary nutrition; pulmonary fibrosis; vitamin; vitamin deficiency
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2025.1525408
  16. Front Nutr. 2025 ;12 1551375
    The association of vitamin deficiency with depression risk in late-life depression: a review.
    Yao Gao, Xiao-Na Song, Zhong-Ping Wen, Jian-Zhen Hu, Xin-Zhe Du, Ji-Hui Zhang, Sha Liu.
      Late-life depression (LLD), a growing public health challenge in aging societies, profoundly impacts physical and mental health by exacerbating cognitive decline, functional disability, and comorbid chronic diseases. Emerging research highlights vitamin supplementation as a promising adjunctive therapy for LLD, targeting its multifactorial pathogenesis involving mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. Specific vitamins, including B-complex vitamins (B1, B6, B9, B12), vitamin D, and antioxidants (C, E), demonstrate therapeutic potential through mechanisms ranging from neurotransmitter regulation to mitochondrial function enhancement. For instance, vitamin D modulates serotonin synthesis and calcium signaling, while B vitamins mitigate homocysteine-mediated neurotoxicity and support energy metabolism. Antioxidants counteract neural oxidative damage linked to depressive severity. Clinical studies reveal that vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) correlates with elevated depression risk, and combined B-vitamin supplementation shows symptom alleviation in nutritionally deficient subgroups. However, evidence remains heterogeneous due to variability in dosing protocols, bioavailability, and population-specific factors like comorbidities. Despite growing evidence, critical gaps persist regarding optimal dosages, bioavailability variations, and long-term outcomes in elderly populations. This review synthesizes current evidence on vitamin-mediated cellular pathways in LLD management, evaluates clinical efficacy across interventions, and proposes personalized nutritional strategies to optimize therapeutic outcomes. By integrating mechanistic insights with clinical data, this analysis aims to guide evidence-based vitamin supplementation protocols for LLD within geriatric care frameworks.
    Keywords:  cellular mechanisms; clinical efficacy; late-life depression; nutritional intervention; vitamins
    DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2025.1551375
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