Chemopreventive role of vitamin D in colorectal carcinoma

Historically, the predominant function of vitamin D is well recognized in calcium and phosphate homeostasis. Recently, plenty of observational and epidemiological studies have suggested the pro-active role of vitamin D in colorectal, prostate, breast, ovarian, and skin cancers. The protective role of vitamin D against cancer has been attributed to its influence on cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, DNA repair mechanisms, and inflammation and immune function. Latest research has identified that vitamin D exerts antiproliferative and prodifferentiating effects in many malignant cells, and inhibits the proliferation of malignant cells in animal models raising the possibility of its therapeutic application as an anticancer agent. The developed genomic models of vitamin D receptors clearly illustrate the anti-cancer effects of Vitamin D but till date, the simultaneous hypercalcemic effect of vitamin D could not be removed from these analogs. This review presents various dimensions of anti-cancer actions of vitamin D by elaborating its lead role in preventing colorectal carcinoma, and sets future goals for establishing its therapeutic actions.