The vitamin D neuroendocrine system as a target for novel neurotropic drugs.

Vitamin D is a seco-steroid hormone with multiple functions in the nervous system. Physiological brain mechanisms of vitamin D and its receptors include neuroprotection, antiepileptic effects, immunomodulation, possible interplay with several brain neurotransmitter systems and hormones, as well as the regulation of behaviours. Here we review the important role of the vitamin D neuroendocrine system in the brain, and outline perspectives for the search for novel neurotropic drugs to treat various vitamin D-related dysfunctions.