Table 2.

Main biological actions of vitamin D/hormone D.

Calcium and phosphorus homeostasis: ○ Increased intestinal calcium absorption and synthesis of the intestinal calcium transporter; ○ Increased intestinal absorption of phosphorus; ○ Increased renal reabsorption of calcium and phosphorus; ○ Induction of mature osteoblasts differentiation from precursors; ○ Stimulation of bone resorption. Immunomodulatory effects: ○ Induction of monocytes differentiation to macrophages; ○ Increased rate of phagocytosis; ○ Increased production of lysosomal enzymes; ○ Decreased interleukin-2 production; ○ Increased interleukin-10 production. Antitumor effect: ○ Induction of cell differentiation; ○ Increased apoptosis of neoplastic cells. Cardiovascular effect: ○ Reduction of plasma renin activity and angiotensin II levels.