Abstract
Epidemiological studies indicate that vitamin D insufficiency could have an aetiological role in various human cancers. Preclinical research indicates that the active metabolite of vitamin D, 1alpha,25(OH)2D3, also known as calcitriol, or vitamin D analogues might have potential as anticancer agents because their administration has antiproliferative effects, can activate apoptotic pathways and inhibit angiogenesis. In addition, 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 potentiates the anticancer effects of many cytotoxic and antiproliferative anticancer agents. Here, we outline the epidemiological, preclinical and clinical studies that support the development of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 and vitamin D analogues as preventative and therapeutic anticancer agents.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
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Review
MeSH terms
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Anticarcinogenic Agents / therapeutic use
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Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
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Apoptosis
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Calcitriol / therapeutic use
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Drug Synergism
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Glucocorticoids / pharmacology
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Humans
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Hydroxycholecalciferols / metabolism
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Models, Biological
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Neoplasms / drug therapy
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Neoplasms / etiology
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Neoplasms / metabolism*
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Receptors, Calcitriol / metabolism
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Signal Transduction
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Steroid Hydroxylases / metabolism
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Vitamin D / metabolism*
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Vitamin D Deficiency / complications*
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Vitamin D3 24-Hydroxylase
Substances
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Anticarcinogenic Agents
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Antineoplastic Agents
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Glucocorticoids
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Hydroxycholecalciferols
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Receptors, Calcitriol
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Vitamin D
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Steroid Hydroxylases
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Vitamin D3 24-Hydroxylase
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Calcitriol