Antiproliferative Effect of Vitamin D in Prostate Epithelial Cells

Abstract

In the last decade, vitamin D and vitamin D analogs have emerged as potential chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of a variety of cancers. The anticancer activity of vitamin D-based regimens is due, in large part, to inhibition of cell growth and promotion of cellular differentiation. Consistent with these cellular actions, compelling population-based and epidemiologic studies support the protective effects of vitamin D against prostate and certain other cancers. Cell cycle regulation is central to vitamin D’s antiproliferative effects. This chapter focuses primarily on the mechanisms of this cell cycle inhibition in prostate cancer cells and, for illustrative purposes, also highlights vitamin D effects on gene expression and cell cycle in cells derived from other solid tumors. Understanding the fundamental principles of vitamin D synthesis, metabolism and action has led to novel vitamin D-based therapeutic strategies, which are illustrated here. Finally, the possible molecular basis for resistance to vitamin D-mediated growth inhibition is considered.