25-Hydroxyergocalciferol
25-Hydroxyergocalciferol, also known as 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 or calcifediol D2, is a form of vitamin D that is measured in the blood to assess an individual's vitamin D status. It is a metabolite of ergocalciferol (vitamin D2), which is derived from plant sources and fungi.
Biochemistry[edit | edit source]
25-Hydroxyergocalciferol is produced in the liver from ergocalciferol through the action of the enzyme vitamin D 25-hydroxylase. This conversion is a crucial step in the activation of vitamin D, as it transforms the vitamin into a form that can be further hydroxylated in the kidneys to produce the biologically active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D2.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of 25-hydroxyergocalciferol is to serve as a precursor to the active form of vitamin D, which plays a vital role in calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and bone metabolism. It is also involved in modulating the immune system and has been implicated in various other physiological processes.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
The measurement of 25-hydroxyergocalciferol levels in the blood is a common method for assessing vitamin D status in patients. Low levels of 25-hydroxyergocalciferol can indicate vitamin D deficiency, which is associated with conditions such as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Conversely, excessively high levels can lead to vitamin D toxicity, which can cause hypercalcemia and other complications.
Measurement[edit | edit source]
Blood levels of 25-hydroxyergocalciferol are typically measured using immunoassays or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). These methods provide accurate assessments of vitamin D status and help guide supplementation and treatment decisions.
Sources[edit | edit source]
Ergocalciferol, the precursor to 25-hydroxyergocalciferol, is obtained from dietary sources such as fortified foods, supplements, and certain mushrooms exposed to ultraviolet light. Unlike cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), which is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight, ergocalciferol is primarily obtained from dietary intake.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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