Biochem/physiol Actions

Cholecalciferol is an inactive form of vitamin D3 which undergoes various levels of hydroxylation to form active vitamin D3 analogs. 1A-Hydroxyvitamin D3 (alfacalcidol is a synthetic analog that is metabolized to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, the biologically active form of vitamin D3 in calcium absorption and deposition. 1A,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 has widespread effects on cellular differentiation and proliferation, and can modulate immune responsiveness, and central nervous system function. Recent studies suggest that 1A,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 acts as a chemopreventive agent against several malignancies including cancers of the prostate and colon and shows synergy with other anticancer compounds.

Biologically active form of vitamin D₃ in calcium absorption and deposition. 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D₃ has widespread effects on cellular differentiation and proliferation, and can modulate immune responsiveness, and central nervous system function. Recent studies suggest that 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ acts as a chemopreventive agent against several malignancies including cancers of the prostate and colon and shows synergy with other anticancer compounds.