Vitamin D for the prevention of preeclampsia? A hypothesis

Nutr Rev. 2005 Jul;63(7):225-32. doi: 10.1301/nr.2005.jul.225-232.

Abstract

Preeclampsia has been suggested to result from a partial breakdown of tolerance to the developing fetus after maternal immune maladaptation. Several of the proposed immunomodulatory properties of the hormonal vitamin D system could potentially have beneficial effects for successful maintenance of pregnancy. Preeclampsia is characterized by marked changes in vitamin D metabolism. This paper reviews the evidence suggesting that the immunomodulatory properties of 1,25(OH)2D may play a key role in maintaining immunological tolerance in pregnancy, and proposes that ensuring adequate vitamin D status/intake may help in the prevention and management of preeclampsia.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pre-Eclampsia / prevention & control*
  • Pregnancy
  • Vitamin D / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Vitamin D