Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the furthermost recurrent chronic liver disorder worldwide, meticulously linked to elements of metabolic syndrome such as obesity, insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus. Recent studies indicate that Vitamin D in adding to its traditional role in calcium regulation, has a complex role in liver health. This review thoroughly investigates the association among Vitamin D levels and the development of NAFLD, emphasizing molecular, clinical and translational viewpoints. We critically evaluate results from cross-sectional and case-control studies carried out in various populations, including data from tertiary care centres in India and Egypt, which consistently reveal a negative association amongst serum Vitamin D concentrations and the severity of NAFLD. Experimental research in rodent models further corroborates the liver-protective properties of Vitamin D through its effects on lipid metabolism, inflammatory signalling, oxidative stress, and insulin sensitivity. Mechanistic insights reveal the modulation of crucial pathways like Sterol Regulatory Element-binding Protein-1c (SREBP-1c) PPARα (Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor alpha), Nuclear factor kaapa B (NF-kB) and Insulin Receptor Substrate 2 (IRS-2) by Vitamin D. The therapeutic implications of these findings feature the efficacy of Vitamin D administration as a complementary approach in the NAFLD management. Despite encouraging data, uncertainties persist regarding causality, optimal dosing, and long-term effectiveness, necessitating further investigation. This review pursues to establish a complete framework for interpreting the emerging significance of Vitamin D in NAFLD, thereby guiding both clinical practice and future research initiatives.
Keywords: Epigenetics, Molecular Interaction, NAFLD, Vitamin-D.