The human immune system produces a protein called hCAP18 (also known as LL-37 or cathelicidin). This protein is believed to help the body to fight infections. Studies suggest that vitamin D may important in the production of hCAP18. This study is designed to test the ability of two different forms of vitamin D to affect levels of hCAP18. Vitamin D and hCAP18 levels will be measured during an initial visit. Individuals who are vitamin D deficient will be randomly assigned to receive one of two forms of vitamin D for two weeks. After this, follow-up levels will be measured.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Ergocalciferol 50,000 IU capsule, one dose every other day x 5 doses
0.25 mcg tablet once daily for 14 days
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
hCAP18 levels
Time frame: 2 weeks
1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D
Time frame: 2 weeks
25-hydroxyvitamin D
Time frame: 2 weeks
calcium
Time frame: 2 weeks
phosphorus
Time frame: 2 weeks
Parathyroid hormone
Time frame: 2 weeks
T-cell subsets
Measures of different types of T-cells
Time frame: 2 weeks
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