Other names for vitamin d
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Other Names for Vitamin D
Introduction to Vitamin D: Cholecalciferol and Ergocalciferol
Vitamin D is a term that encompasses a group of fat-soluble secosteroids essential for maintaining calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism. The two primary forms of vitamin D are vitamin D-3 (cholecalciferol) and vitamin D-2 (ergocalciferol) . These compounds are synthesized in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation or obtained through dietary sources.
Metabolites of Vitamin D: Calcidiol and Calcitriol
Once vitamin D is in the body, it undergoes several transformations. In the liver, vitamin D is hydroxylated to form 25-hydroxyvitamin D, also known as calcidiol. Calcidiol is the primary circulating form of vitamin D and is often measured to assess vitamin D status. When there is a need for calcium or phosphate, calcidiol is further hydroxylated in the kidneys to produce 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, also known as calcitriol. Calcitriol is the biologically active form of vitamin D and plays a crucial role in calcium and phosphate homeostasis.
Additional Metabolites: 24,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D
Another metabolite of vitamin D is 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, which is formed through the action of the enzyme 24-hydroxylase. This pathway is part of the process leading to the excretion of vitamin D metabolites in bile.
Functional Roles of Vitamin D Metabolites
The active form of vitamin D, calcitriol, functions not only in maintaining skeletal health by regulating calcium and phosphate absorption but also has nonskeletal roles. These include modulating immune responses, regulating cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Calcitriol's role in these processes is facilitated by its transport to the nucleus, where it influences the synthesis of specific proteins.
Conclusion
Vitamin D, encompassing cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol, is vital for various physiological functions. Its metabolites, including calcidiol and calcitriol, play significant roles in maintaining calcium and phosphate homeostasis and have broader implications for immune function and cellular health. Understanding these different forms and their functions is crucial for assessing vitamin D status and its impact on health.
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