THE EXTRASKELETAL FUNCTIONS OF VITAMIN D: A REVIEW OF CONTEMPORARY EVIDENCE ON EFFECTS IN THE IMMUNE, CARDIOVASCULAR, AND NERVOUS SYSTEMS

This article reviews the extraskeletal functions of vitamin D, highlighting its regulatory role in the immune, cardiovascular, and nervous systems based on current scientific evidence. It examines the molecular mechanisms of vitamin D action, the association between vitamin D deficiency and various chronic diseases, and the discrepancies between observational studies and randomized controlled trials. The article also discusses the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency worldwide, particularly in Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, and provides practical recommendations for its prevention and management.