Vitamin D receptor and cancer

Abstract

Vitamin D Receptor Structure - Vitamin D target tissues contain a specific vitam in D nuclear receptor (VDR). VDRs are present in more than 30 cell types particularly those responsible for calcium homeostasis, immune f unction, endocrine, hematopoiesis and tumors. VDR is a SlkDa steroid, thyroid protein hormone. VDR shows more than 95% homology between species. The VDR contains an N-terminal DNA-binding domain (DBD). This acts as a cysteine-rich recognition domain on a sulfhydryl protein. In the Cterminal there is present a ligand - binding domain (LSD). In response to increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcitriol synthesis of the VDR receptor increases (Bak, 2006). [excerpt]