Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)
Chemical Formula: C27H44O
Molecular Weight: 384.64
CAS Number: 67-97-0
Description: Cholecalciferol USP, Clear oily liquid, ≥98.0% (HPLC)
Cholecalciferol is a steroid derivatives produced in the skin when exposed to ultraviolet light or obtained from dietary sources. The active form of cholecalciferol, 1, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol) plays an important role in maintaining blood calcium and phosphorus levels and mineralization of bone. The activated form of cholecalciferol binds to vitamin D receptors and modulates gene expression. This leads to an increase in serum calcium concentrations by increasing intestinal absorption of phosphorus and calcium, promoting distal renal tubular reabsorption of calcium and increasing osteoclastic resorption. Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin important in the regulation of calcium metabolism and bone health and deficiency of which cause rickets, a disease marked by lack of mineralization of bone.