Vitamin D deficiency is common in the general world population. Since circulating 25(OH) D levels vary among different ethnic populations, it is difficult to define vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D binding protein (DBP) is the major transport protein for vitamin D metabolites in plasma, and 88–93% of 25(OH) D in the circulation is bound to DBP. Recent studies have found that serum DBP levels are decreased in type 1 diabetes, chronic liver, and renal diseases. It is unclear whether a change in levels of DBP would have any effect on concentrations of vitamin D metabolites, as DBP circulates at a higher level than its ligands. It is also unclear the etiology behind changes in DBP levels and its relationship to PTH and 25(OH) D levels.

We invite original research articles as well as review articles that seek to define the relationship of DBP and vitamin D levels in different disease conditions in human and animal models. We are interested in articles that explore free and bioavailable vitamin D levels, its relation to levels of vitamin D metabolites, and its association with risks of various diseases including cancer, osteoporosis, and diabetes. Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• DBP levels in various disease conditions
• DBP levels in different ethnic populations
• Genetic variations of DBP and vitamin D metabolites
• Factors affecting free and bioavailable vitamin D levels
• The role of DBP during growth and pregnancy
• Associations of DBP and vitamin D levels with cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other diseases

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