Vitamin D3: Scientific Profile
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Research compound; Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is a prohormone essential to calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. It is presented as a 20,000 IU/mL solution for research on physiological modulation.
Vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol, is a fat-soluble compound synthesized endogenously by cutaneous exposure to ultraviolet B radiation or through selective exogenous intake. In the research field, cholecalciferol acts as a prohormone that requires hepatic hydroxylation to 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 and subsequent renal activation to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol), the biologically active form that binds to the vitamin D receptor (VDR).
This research model allows for the analysis of the transcription of genes linked to intestinal calcium absorption, tubular phosphate reabsorption, and bone matrix mineralization. Its importance has been documented in the regulation of the parathyroid gland and in the prevention of altered calcium homeostasis in study subjects with induced deficiencies.
Beyond its osteotropic function, Vitamin D3 is the subject of study in theoretical immunology for its capacity to modulate the response of macrophages and T lymphocytes. Current research explores its influence on the reduction of proinflammatory cytokines and on the expression of antimicrobial peptides, which positions it as a critical compound in research protocols on the innate and adaptive immune system.
Mechanism of action
Cholecalciferol exerts its action through its active metabolite, calcitriol, which binds to the nuclear receptor VDR. This complex forms a heterodimer with the retinoid X receptor (RXR), binding to vitamin D response elements (VDRE) in DNA. This process regulates the expression of transport proteins such as calbindin, facilitating the transport of ionic calcium across epithelia.
Mechanism summary
It acts through activation of the VDR nuclear receptor, regulating gene transcription to optimize mineral homeostasis and immune function in research models.
Clinical Studies (4)
- Vitamin D supplementation: cholecalciferol, calcifediol, and calcitriol (Quesada-Gomez, et al. · European Journal of Clinical Nutrition · 2020) PMID 32704098.
- Cholecalciferol and calcifediol for vitamin D supplementation (Sosa-Henríquez M, et al. · Osteoporosis International · 2020) PMID 31673732.
- Effect of Long-term Vitamin D3 Supplementation vs Placebo on Risk of Depression or Clinically Relevant Depressive Symptoms and on Change in Mood Scores: A Randomized Clinical Trial (Okereke, et al. · JAMA · 2020) PMID 32749491.
- What is the impact of daily oral supplementation of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) plus calcium on the incidence of hip fracture in older people? A systematic review and meta-analysis (Manoj P, et al. · International Journal of Older People Nursing · 2023) PMID 35842938.
Warnings
Vitamin D3 is a research-use-only (RUO) compound; the following warnings and handling considerations apply to its laboratory use:
- Requires constant monitoring of serum calcium levels
- Handling exclusively in a laboratory setting
- Avoid direct exposure to intense UV radiation during storage
- Models with pre-existing hypercalcemia
- Research in subjects with sarcoidosis
- Chronic renal failure without strict control
- Documented vitamin D toxicity
Technical data
- CAS
- 67-97-0
- Molecular formula
- C27H44O
- Molecular weight
- 384.6 Da
- Compound type
- vitamin
- Storage
- 15-30°C protected from light
- Shelf life (lyophilized)
- 24 months
- Shelf life (reconstituted)
- Not applicable (oily/aqueous solution)
- Light-sensitive
- Sí
Frequently asked questions about Vitamin D3
What is Vitamin D3?
Research compound; Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is a prohormone essential to calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. It is presented as a 20,000 IU/mL solution for research on physiological modulation.
What is the mechanism of action of Vitamin D3?
It acts through activation of the VDR nuclear receptor, regulating gene transcription to optimize mineral homeostasis and immune function in research models.
What is Vitamin D3 researched for?
In preclinical research, Vitamin D3 is studied mainly in: Modulation of calcium and phosphorus homeostasis; Research on bone mineral density; Study of cellular immune function. Material exclusively for scientific research.
What are the chemical properties of Vitamin D3?
Molecular formula C27H44O; molecular weight 384.6 Da; CAS number 67-97-0.
How is Vitamin D3 stored?
Storage conditions: 15-30°C protected from light; lyophilized stability: 24 months; once reconstituted: Not applicable (oily/aqueous solution); protect from light.
What routes of administration are studied for Vitamin D3?
In research models the following are described: Intramuscular, Subcutaneous. Use is exclusively for scientific research.