Abstract
Recent studies have identified the involvement of the immune system in
several bone complications like osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), periodontitis,
osteoarthritis, etc. Immune cells have an indispensable role in the regulation of bone
metabolism and explicitly influence the differentiation of bone cells by producing
various cytokines. Fortunately, recent research has examined different immune-based
therapeutics for the prevention of bone diseases in addition to revealing more
information about the interaction of the bone and the immune system. Vitamin D
maintains bone health by effectively absorbing calcium and thereby promoting bone
mineralization. In addition, vitamin D has great immunomodulatory potential and can
influence the effect of immune cells and cytokines on the pathogenesis of bone
deformities. Therefore, it is plausible to suggest that the detrimental effect of vitamin D
deficiency on bone is also linked to the immune system apart from its classic effect on
bone mineralization. However, very few studies have enlightened on this aspect of
vitamin D-mediated regulation of bone homeostasis which needs to be further
unraveled. In the present chapter, we have compiled recent studies highlighting the
effect of vitamin D on bone health via its effect on the host immune system. Further,
we have also highlighted the role of the immune system in the maintenance of skeletal
health and then have discussed the effect of vitamin D on various immune cells. In
addition, we have reviewed vitamin D-facilitated immune-based approaches for the
effective management of various bone pathologies such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis
and rheumatoid arthritis. This information will supposedly help in revealing further
mechanistic insights into the immunological regulation of bone health by vitamin D.