Vitamin D receptor polymorphism and melanoma outcome

Vitamin D is a 9,10-secosteroid active under the form of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. In vitro, this molecule shows anticancer potential since it regulates cell growth, differentiation and apoptosis which are cellular mechanisms central to the development and progression of cancer. Moreover, epidemiologic studies suggest an inverse assiociation between sun exposure, serum levels of vitamin D, its intake and the risk of developing/progression cancer. As vitamin D exerts its functions by blinding its receptor (VDR), it has been suggested that polymorphism of the VDR may affect interaction with its ligand and ultimately its biological activities.