Immune cells have been known to express vitamin D receptors (VDR) and various immune cells (monocytes, dendritic cells, macrophages, B cells and T cells) are capable of converting 25-hydroxy Vit D (25OHD) into active form 1,25-(OH)2 D. This permits local regulation of the 1,25-(OH)2 D at the site of inflammation [10]. Binding of 1,25-(OH)2 D to the VDR leads to translocation of the complex into the cell nucleus where it modifies the expression of hundreds of genes, including those for cytokine production [11] . The complex also induces the production of antimicrobial peptides including cathelicidin and defensins [12] .
A study by Zhao et al [13] showed a reduction in the replication of rotavirus both in vitro and in vivo by administration of Vit D at dose of 5000 IU/kg. Induction of cytokine storm is reduced by Vit D. The innate immune system generates both pro-inflammatory and…
