VDR is a gene which encodes for a protein which acts as a receptor for vitamin D that regulates bone formation and calcium absorption. A variant of the gene, rs2228570 (FokI polymorphism) is associated with a decrease in bone mineral density in white prepubertal girls.
The hnRNP C1/C2 component of the nuclear vitamin D receptor complex interacts with promoter regions of genes that are responsive to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and can induce their transcription. The interaction is controlled by the reciprocal and temporal pattern of off- and on- occupancy of the VDRE by two components, and it is influenced by chromosomal location and binding preferences for certain hormones. Microarray studies of human cells indicate that more than 100 genes carry an identifiable VDRE in their promoters. The VDRE is occupied by transcription repressors in the absence of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-VDR complex binds to these genes, resulting in the recruitment of hnRNP C1/C2 and other proteins that can compete with the repressors and initiate transcription.
A virtual data room (VDR) is an online repository for data and documents pertinent to legal, business, or proceedings that are restricted in viewing and downloading. It makes use of central computers and an extranet which is a restricted access Internet connection, allowing users to login at specified times.
VDRs are typically used by investment banks and companies involved in mergers and acquisitions. They must be able to communicate information in a clear way with potential investors or buyers. Due diligence procedures may also require a huge amount of data. Life science companies also make use of VDRs for everything from clinical trial data to HIPAA documentation for compliance.
