Effects of vitamin D on macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) hyperinflammatory response in the lungs of COVID-19 patients

Highlights

• Vitamin D deficiency increases the severity of the ARDS in COVID-19 infection.

• Vitamin D receptors are expressed in the macrophages and other immune cells.

• Vitamin D supplementation may lessen macrophage response and the ARDS in COVID-19.

Abstract

Vitamin D regulates homeostasis, anti-microbial response, and inflammation. The vitamin D receptors are expressed in the macrophages and other immune cells, regulating the transcription of many different genes, including those coding the anti-microbial peptides. One of the most severe complications of the SARS-CoV-2 infection is the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by the hyperinflammatory response (commonly called cytokine storm) of the lung macrophages. Studies showed that Vitamin D deficiency increases the severity of the ARDS in COVID-19 infection. We discuss here how the vitamin D supplementation may influence macrophage and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) inflammatory response, subdue the hyperinflammatory response, and lessen the ARDS in COVID-19 patients.