Severe Vitamin D Deficiency Elevates HSP70 Antibodies Indicating Ovarian Pathology

Objectives The vitamin D endocrine system has a systemic role in regulating the immune and reproductive systems. New research shows that both calcium and vitamin D are important for female fertility. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). However, VDD is asymptotic, especially in adolescents and young adults. Further, vitamin D regulates Tregulatory lymphocytes, whose deficiency mediates T H 1 response, causing POI in women. Our lab has earlier reported that women with idiopathic POI and failed in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer harbour autoantibodies to heat shock proteins HSP70 and HSP90. Given the important role of Treg cells in immune tolerance and ovulation, we sought to assess whether severe VDD can compromise ovarian function and concomitantly elevate antibodies to HSP70. Material and Methods Immature Balb/c mice were weaned onto either a control or VDD diet and maintained for 150 days. Ovarian histology and serum anti-HSP70 levels were assessed at VDD60, 90 and 150 time points. Results Ovarian histology was unchanged at VDD60 and deteriorated by VDD90. Elevated anti-HSP70 titre was noted by VDD60, which was slightly increased by VDD90. Conclusion Our study shows that severe VDD can compromise ovarian function and concomitantly elevate antibodies to HSP70. This can be a potential early biomarker of severe VDD-induced underlying ovarian pathology.