Maternal vitamin D and genetic variants determine cord blood vitamin D levels in newborn

Abstract

Background: Maternal and newborn vitamin D levels are closely linked, but the role of genetic factors is not fully understood. This study investigates how maternal vitamin D levels and variations in vitamin D metabolism genes influence cord blood vitamin D concentrations.

Methods: A total of 456 mother-newborn pairs were included. Maternal blood was collected during the second trimester (24-28 weeks), and cord blood at birth. Genetic polymorphisms in vitamin D receptor (VDR), vitamin D binding protein (VDBP), and cytochrome P450 27B1 (CYP27B1) genes were genotyped. Linear regression and other statistical methods assessed associations with cord blood vitamin D levels.

Results: Maternal and newborn vitamin D levels showed a linear correlation (R² = 0.3854, p < 0.001). Maternal CYP27B1 rs10877012 and the G allele count in mother-newborn pairs were significantly associated with cord blood levels (p = 0.0009). The newborn-to-maternal vitamin D ratio, reflecting transfer efficiency, was influenced by VDBP variants (maternal rs4588, p = 0.0203; newborn rs7041, p = 0.0171).

Conclusion: Maternal vitamin D status is the key driver of cord blood vitamin D levels, with genetic variants in CYP27B1 and VDBP playing additional roles in determining both the levels and the efficiency of vitamin D transfer from mother to newborn.

Impact: Demonstrates a strong linear correlation between maternal and newborn vitamin D levels. Identifies a significant association between maternal CYP27B1 polymorphism (rs10877012) and cord blood vitamin D concentration. Shows that VDBP genetic variants influence the efficiency of vitamin D transfer from mother to fetus. Supports the development of personalized vitamin D supplementation strategies for pregnant women to optimize neonatal outcomes.