'Vitamin D during pregnancy found to protect against fine dust–related kidney damage'

A study has found that vitamin D intake during pregnancy can mitigate not only maternal kidney damage caused by fine dust but also kidney damage in newborns.

Building on these findings, Professor Yim Hyung-eun of the Department of Pediatrics at Korea University Ansan Hospital announced the research outcomes on Sunday. The study specifically examined the intergenerational effects of fine dust exposure.

Professor Yim organized the study participants into three groups: one group received only a saline solution, another group was administered only fine dust (PM₂.₅), and the third group received both fine dust (PM₂.₅) and vitamin D. This grouping allowed for comparison between the effects of fine dust exposure and the potential protective effects of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy.

The substances were orally administered to each group from day 11 of pregnancy—coinciding with the period of kidney formation in offspring rats—until day 21 postpartum. At this time point, the kidneys of the mothers and male offspring were compared and analyzed.

Upon analysis, the study revealed that PM₂.₅ exposure during pregnancy resulted in increased glomerular damage, tubulointerstitial injury, and cortical macrophage infiltration in both mother and offspring rats. Notably, vitamin D administration mitigated these adverse changes.

Baby rats whose mothers inhaled fine dust showed kidney damage similar to their mothers, including a reduced ability to use vitamin D, protect against cell damage, control blood flow, and manage kidney swelling.

However, baby rats whose mothers received both fine dust and vitamin D showed improved vitamin D utilization, blood flow regulation, and kidney inflammation control—indicating that vitamin D supplementation can lessen the harmful effects of fine dust exposure.

“Maternal vitamin D intake can mitigate kidney damage in both mothers and offspring caused by fine dust,” Professor Yim Hyung-eun said. “This study provides important clues for future nutritional intervention research and new drug development to protect maternal and fetal health.”

The paper detailing these findings, titled “Maternal exposure to airborne particulate matter during pregnancy and lactation induces kidney injury in rat dams and their male offspring: the role of vitamin D in pregnancy and beyond,” was published in the latest issue of the international journal Kidney Research and Clinical Practice (KRCP).

Meanwhile, the Korean Society of Nephrology recognized the academic excellence of this research by Professor Yim, awarding her the 2025 Outstanding Paper Award.