Vitamin D and PSA Levels

[JonK]

There are reports that vitamin D supplementation can reduce PSA scores in men with prostate cancer (e.g., Woo, et.al., Nutrition and Cancer, 51, 32 2005). Does vitamin D actually suppress prostate cancer growth or does it merely suppress PSA production, thus falsely suggesting prostate cancer growth is under control? (Male, 65, post-op prostate cancer patient).  

[Ash Tewari, MD, M.Ch.]

Many studies with vit D have been in patients in whom local treatment for prostate cancer has failed. failure of therapy is monitored with PSA rise and responxse likewise is monitored by checking serum PSA levels. Vit D does seem to have an anti proliferative effect but a lot is still not clearly understood.

Vit D deficiency can cause prostate cancer, and calcitriol has been shown to prolong the doubling time of PSA, but near-toxic doses are required. (Woo et al)

Molecular mechanism of antiproliferative effect of Vitamin D has been under an intensive investigation. The development of microarray technology makes it possible to screen Vitamin D-responsive genes in cells and tissues. Prostate is a target organ of Vitamin D and and Vit D receptors have been found to be present in prostate epithelial cells.

Vitamin D3 causes an accumulation of (LNCaP) cancer cells in a (G1) phase of the cell cycle and also results in cell death.

There are phase 1/2 trials which are being carried out to answer these questions

[beeswax]

A related discussion, prostate sweating was started.

[skyhag]

I would be interested to know if you have researched the benefits of pomegranate juice in slowing the progression of prostate cancer.  My husband has the dreaded appt. today to learn of his psa reading.  His post op readings were undetected for over two years, then suddenly his psa was 0.7  He is hoping for little or no change.  We were told that pomegranate juice could have chemotherapuetic benefits so he has emptied several bottles over the past three months....we shall see.  I have the same concerns about the pom juice that you expressed about the Vit D (does it control the cancer cells or the psa reading?) Best wishes for your continued good health.