Work

The Role of Vitamin D in Neuropathic Pain: Biological Mechanisms and Clinical Relevance

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Neuropathic pain remains a major clinical challenge due to its complex pathophysiology and limited treatment efficacy. Recent evidence suggests that vitamin D, beyond its classical role in bone and mineral metabolism, exerts neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects that may influence pain perception. This review synthesizes current findings on the relationship between vitamin D status and neuropathic pain, highlighting potential mechanisms such as modulation of neuroinflammation, regulation of neuronal excitability, and influence on neurotransmitter pathways. Observational studies frequently report an association between vitamin D deficiency and increased pain severity, while interventional trials indicate that supplementation may alleviate neuropathic symptoms in specific populations. However, results remain heterogeneous, and mechanistic studies are still emerging. Understanding the interplay between vitamin D and neuropathic pain could open new avenues for adjunctive therapeutic strategies and personalized medicine approaches. Further high-quality clinical trials and mechanistic research are warranted to clarify causality and optimize clinical applications.

Source: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/ijms27114671

Author: Mario García-Domínguez

Institution: Universidad Alfonso X el Sabio

Language: English

Topic: Vitamin D Research Studies

Subfield: Pathology and Forensic Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,499