Prevention and Treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy with Vitamin D

Abstract

The number of people suffering from diabetes mellitus, especially Type 2 diabetes mellitus, is increasing every year. Approximately one-third of the patients with diabetes mellitus will develop diabetic nephropathy and chronic kidney disease. Diabetic nephropathy represents the main cause of end-stage renal disease. Vitamin D deficiency is often present in patients with diabetes mellitus and could present a risk factor for a higher incidence of cardiovascular events. Vitamin D supplementation could have a renoprotective effect and the potential to delay occurrence and slow down the progression of diabetic nephropathy. The renoprotective effect is reflected in better glycoregulation, reduction of proteinuria and proinflammatory cytokines, and improved lipid regulation. New research shed the light on the important role of vitamin D in reducing renal fibrosis and stabilization of podocyte function. If we take into consideration the cost of end-stage renal disease treatment and the quality of life of patients on dialysis, any delay in end-stage renal disease is significant.