Scientists have discovered a gene that plays a vital role in absorbing vitamin D, a finding that could lead to new approaches in treating cancer and autoimmune diseases. The gene, named SDR42E1, helps the body take up vitamin D from the gut and break it down for use. Researchers believe this discovery could be important for precision medicine, particularly in cancer treatment.
In earlier studies, a specific mutation in the SDR42E1 gene on chromosome 16 was linked to vitamin D deficiency. The mutation caused the protein produced by this gene to become shorter and inactive.
To study this further, scientists used CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology to modify the SDR42E1 gene in cancer cells taken from a colorectal cancer patient.
These cells, known as HCT116, usually show high levels of SDR42E1, which indicates its importance for their survival.
After inserting the faulty version of the gene, researchers found that the cancer cells became weaker. Their survival rate dropped by 53 percent. This suggests that the SDR42E1 gene may help cancer cells grow and that blocking it could stop their development without harming nearby healthy cells.
The study was published in the journal Frontiers in Endocrinology. It highlights that SDR42E1 is not only essential for vitamin D metabolism but could also become a new target in the treatment of diseases influenced by vitamin D. These include various cancers and autoimmune conditions.
Scientists involved in the research said more studies are needed to fully understand how SDR42E1 affects vitamin D levels in the long run. They stressed that while the results are promising, further investigation is required before this gene can be used in clinical treatment.
