Hormonal
Vitamin D signaling in innate immune cells (macrophages/dendritic cells) stimulates the intracrine synthesis of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, which directly induces the expression of antimicrobial proteins (cathelicidin, beta-defensin 2) and enhances autophagy to combat intracellular pathogens like Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Ensure your Vitamin D levels are sufficient, as the immune system needs this nutrient to produce antimicrobial proteins that fight bacteria and viruses. This is not just about bone health; your immune cells actively use Vitamin D to fight infections. If you are deficient, your immune cells cannot effectively produce these protective proteins, regardless of how much you take.
At an innate level, intracrine synthesis of 1,25D by macrophages and dendritic cells stimulates expression of anti-microbial proteins such as cathelicidin, as well as lowering intracellular iron concentrations via suppression of hepcidin. By potently enhancing autophagy, 1,25D may also play an important role in combatting intracellular pathogens such as M. tuberculosis and viral infections.
Why this rating
The paper is a comprehensive review citing numerous in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, though it notes species-specific differences (primates vs rodents).
Source
Vitamin D and Immune Regulation: Antibacterial, Antiviral, Anti‐Inflammatory
Emma L. Bishop et al. · JBMR Plus · 2020
DOI 10.1002/jbm4.10405
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