Vitamin D affects antiphospholipid syndrome by regulating T cells (Review)

Int J Mol Med. 2025 Feb;55(2):30. doi: 10.3892/ijmm.2024.5471. Epub 2024 Dec 13.

Abstract

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by arterial and/or venous thrombosis, pathological pregnancies and persistent antiphospholipid antibodies. The occurrence and development of APS are complex and associated with immune disorders, with its prognosis remaining uncertain. Owing to its pathogenesis, anticoagulation therapy is the primary treatment for patients with APS. In recent years, with increased attention on APS, research on its treatment strategies has flourished, and preclinical and clinical relevance studies are being conducted to re‑evaluate the mechanism of action of existing drugs and to develop new drugs. Recent evidence suggests that vitamin D (VD) may help improve immune disorders in patients with APS by regulating the balance between immune cells. In this review, the potential mechanistic role of VD in APS protection was discussed, highlighting the potential effects of VD as a promising adjuvant treatment option for APS.

Keywords: T cell; antiphospholipid syndrome; pathological pregnancy; thrombus; vitamin D.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Antiphospholipid / immunology
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome* / drug therapy
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome* / immunology
  • Humans
  • T-Lymphocytes* / drug effects
  • T-Lymphocytes* / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes* / metabolism
  • Vitamin D* / metabolism
  • Vitamin D* / pharmacology
  • Vitamin D* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Vitamin D
  • Antibodies, Antiphospholipid