Vitamin D in tuberous sclerosis complex-associated tumors

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential of vitamin D as a treatment for tumors linked to tuberous sclerosis complex, aiming to improve current therapies.

Contribution

The study highlights vitamin D's role as a possible adjuvant therapy for TSC-associated tumors by leveraging shared cancer mechanisms.

Findings

1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 shows anticancer properties relevant to TSC-associated tumors.

Vitamin D signaling could be a promising drug target due to its epigenetic modifications.

In vitro studies are needed to assess vitamin D's efficacy in TSC and psychiatric symptoms.

Abstract

Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) have been used to treat pediatric tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)-associated tumors, particularly in cases with contraindications to surgery or difficulties in complete tumor resection. However, some patients experience side effects and tumor regression after discontinuation of the treatment. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop drugs that can be used in combination with mTORi to increase their efficacy and minimize their side effects. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-D), which has anticancer properties, may be a promising candidate for adjuvant or alternative therapy because TSC and cancer cells share common mechanisms, including angiogenesis, cell growth, and proliferation. Vitamin D receptor-mediated signaling can be epigenetically modified and plays an important role in susceptibility to 1,25-D. Therefore, vitamin D signaling may be a promising drug target, and in vitro studies are required to evaluate the efficacy of 1,25-D in TSC-associated tumors, brain development, and core symptoms of psychiatric disorders.

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