oxytocin and Vitamin-D-Deficiency

Serotonin and vitamin D have been proposed to play a role in autism; however, no causal mechanism has been established. Here, we present evidence that vitamin D hormone (calcitriol) activates the transcription of the serotonin-synthesizing gene tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) in the brain at a vitamin D response element (VDRE) and represses the transcription of TPH1 in tissues outside the blood-brain barrier at a distinct VDRE. The proposed mechanism explains 4 major characteristics associated with autism: the low concentrations of serotonin in the brain and its elevated concentrations in tissues outside the blood-brain barrier; the low concentrations of the vitamin D hormone precursor 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D3]; the high male prevalence of autism; and the presence of maternal antibodies against fetal brain tissue. Two peptide hormones, oxytocin and vasopressin, are also associated with autism and genes encoding the oxytocin-neurophysin I preproprotein, the oxytocin receptor, and the arginine vasopressin receptor contain VDREs for activation. Supplementation with vitamin D and tryptophan is a practical and affordable solution to help prevent autism and possibly ameliorate some symptoms of the disorder.

Topics: Animals; Autistic Disorder; Autoimmunity; Black People; Blood-Brain Barrier; Brain; Brain Chemistry; Calcitriol; Digestive System Abnormalities; Diseases in Twins; Estrogens; Female; Fetus; Humans; Incidence; Inflammation; Male; Maternal-Fetal Exchange; Models, Biological; Mothers; Oxytocin; Pregnancy; Receptors, Calcitriol; Serotonin; Tryptophan Hydroxylase; Vitamin D; Vitamin D Deficiency; Vitamin D Response Element

Maternal Postpartum (PPD) or Postnatal Depression (PND) is believed to be the commonest medical complication postpartum. Evidence suggests a significantly higher prevalence of the disease compared to the often reported 10-15%.. Studies were identified by accessing several databases including PubMed/Medline, PubMed Central, EBSCO, and PsycINFO.. Vitamin D (VD) deficiency, hormonal levels alteration (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, oxytocin, and prolactin), thyroid dysfunction, and increased oxidative stress, play a critical role in PPD etiopathogenesis and pathophysiology.. Treatment strategies should include an integrated approach of antidepressants and psychotherapy, melatonin, diet, sleep improvement, exercise, VD and antioxidants supplementation, and economic and social support.

Topics: Antidepressive Agents; Depression, Postpartum; Diet; Female; Global Health; Humans; Oxytocin; Psychotherapy; Thyroid Diseases; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin D Deficiency