Vitamin D receptor targets hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α and mediates protective effects of vitamin D in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

ABSTRACT: Epidemiological studies have suggested a link between vitamin D deficiency and increased risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); however, the underlying mechanisms have remained unclear. Here, using both clinical samples and experimental rodent models along with several biochemical approaches, we explored the specific effects and mechanisms of vitamin D deficiency in NAFLD pathology. Serum vitamin D levels were significantly lower in individuals with NAFLD and in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice than in healthy controls and chow-fed mice, respectively. Vitamin D supplementation ameliorated HFD-induced hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance in mice. Hepatic expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR) was up-regulated in three models of NAFLD, including HFD-fed mice, methionine/choline-d

SUBMITTER: Zhang H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7086018 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature