Nitric oxide in blood plasma of Wistar rats receiving vitamin D3

Recently, much data has been published on the correlation between vitamin D and endothelium. Which is known to regulate vascular homeostasis and hemodynamics. Nitric oxide is characterized by a strong vasodilating effect. It is also a powerful inhibitor of platelet aggregation and adhesion to the vascular wall. Vitamin D and its receptors can regulate the nitric oxide synthesis by changing the activity of endothelial NO synthase. The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of vitamin D3 (emulsion) consumption on the level of nitric oxide in the blood of Wistar rats. Materials and Methods. The study was carried out on mature male Wistar rats weighing 200-300 g (aged 2-3 months). The rats were randomly divided into two groups: 1) control (n=6), kept in vivarium during the whole experiment, 2) experimental (n=6), daily receiving vitamin D3 in emulsion for 30 days. The calculation of vitamin D3 dose was based on the recommended daily amount of vitamin D3 for an adult person (4000 IU). A biochemical blood test determined 25-hydroxyvitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and the level of stable nitric oxide metabolites. Statistica software was used for statistical analysis. Results. The trial study showed that a 30-day intake of vitamin D3 in emulsion increased its concentration and the nitric oxide level in the blood of rats. It may indicate the intensification of the enzymatic nitric oxide synthesis and the improvement in endothelial function. Conclusion. Thus, vitamin D and nitric oxide are important functionally correlated compounds. Adequate vitamin D status can mitigate the development of cardiovascular disease.