Vitamin D and Calcium Independently Mediate theFemale Reproductive Performance

Background: Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) reduces the chancesof successful fertilization; however, it remains to be validatedwhether this effect is dependent or not on calcium. To answerthis, mouse models were used and placed in different situationsof vitamin D (Vit D) or calcium deficiency to dissociate thecalcium from the Vit D effect.Materials and Methods: The models consis ted of: of: ۱/ control;۲/ sham groups; ۳/ Vitamin D overdose and normal Calcium;۴/ Vitamin D and Calcium deficient /Vitamin D deficientand normal calcium; ۵/ Vitamin D normal and hypocalcemia.After the measurement of serum levels of Vit D, calcium andphosphorus, an analysis was carried out in terms of activationand maturation of oocytes as well as reproductive performance.Results: Vit D overdose, despite increasing number of matureoocytes, it reduced maturation, developmental competence andoffspring survival. VDD reduced the number and percentage ofmature oocytes and blas tocys t rates, as well as fertility rate andoffspring survival. Calcium deficiency, when Vit D levels werenormal, had a similar effect. The effects of VDD were all editedby a diet that corrected calcium level.Conclusion: Both Vit D overdose and deficiency have a negativeeffect on female reproductive performance. Calcium deficiencyin a normal Vit D context also has a negative effecton female reproductive performance. In conclusion, althoughclosely related, Vit D and calcium act in part independently ofeach other in defining the “optimum” for female reproductiveperformance.

کلیدواژه ها:

Calcium Deficiency ، Oocyte Number and Maturity ، Vitamin D Deficiency