Research Progress on the Mechanism of Vitamin D3 in the Occurrence and Development of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common chronic liver diseases. Although the global incidence has been increasing in the recent years, the targeted treatment drugs remain unavailable. Recent studies have shown that vitamin D3 participates in fat metabolism, reduces insulin resistance, and has certain anti-oxidative, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic properties. 25(OH)D is the active form of VD3. In the recent epidemiological studies, we observed lower serum 25(OH)D levels in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Vitamin D3 supplementation can have some preventive effect on NAFLD occurrence and development. This article reviews the research progress and mechanisms of vitamin D3 action in NAFLD.