Modern Pediatrics. Ukraine. (2026).3(155): 60-64. doi: 10.15574/SP.2026.3(155).6064
Nakonechna K. B.
SNC «Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University», Ukraine 

For citation: Nakonechna KB. (2026). The role of vitamin D and VDR gene polymorphism in susceptibility to Helicobacter pylori infection in childhood. Modern Pediatrics. Ukraine. 3(155): 60-64. doi: 10.15574/SP.2026.3(155).6064.
Article received: Jan 25, 2026. Accepted for publication: Apr 13, 2026.

Given the high prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection among the pediatric population of Ukraine and the significant onset of gastroduodenal pathology at a younger age, studying the immunological and genetic susceptibility factors to Helicobacter pylori (Hp) is highly relevant.
Aim – to study the relationship between gastroduodenal diseases associated with Hp infection, vitamin D deficiency, and vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphism in children.
Materials and methods. A total of 72 children aged 6-17 years with gastroduodenal pathology were examined. Comprehensive examination in all patients included determination of Hp infection status, vitamin D levels, and the ApaI and TaqI polymorphisms of the VDR gene. The patients were divided into 2 groups: Hp-positive – Hp(+) and Hp-negative – Hp(-).
Results. Hp infection was detected in 32 patients. In 40 patients, the Hp test was negative. Vitamin D deficiency was diagnosed in 87.5% of Hp(+) children versus 65% of Hp(-) group. The median vitamin D level was 21.5 ng/ml in the Hp(+) group and 26 ng/ml in the Hp(-) group. Maintaining a normal vitamin D level was found to be associated with a 73.5% reduction in the odds of Hp infection. Every 1 ng/mL increase in vitamin D concentration significantly reduces the risk of Hp mucosal colonization. Genotype analysis showed that the TT genotype of the TaqI polymorphism of the VDR gene serves as a predictor of Hp infection. Sex did not affect the risk of Hp infection.
Conclusions. A statistically significant inverse correlation between vitamin D levels and the risk of Hp infection was demonstrated. Normal vitamin D status plays a protective role against Hp colonization of the gastroduodenal mucosa. Genetic susceptibility to Hp-positive status is associated with the TT genotype of the TaqI polymorphism of the VDR gene. The obtained results justify the rationale for monitoring and correcting vitamin D levels as an important component of comprehensive therapy and prevention of Hp-associated diseases in children.
The study was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Informed consent was obtained from the patients.
The author declares no conflict of interest.
Keywords: vitamin D, Helicobacter pylori, VDR gene polymorphism, gastroduodenal pathology, children.

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