VDR and psychiatric disorder: In addition, vitamin D receptors have been found in several areas of the brain and are reported to be involved in neuroimmuno-modulation, neuroprotection, neuro-plasticity and brain development.1 Given that some of these receptors are found in brain areas implicated in mental illnesses such as depression,1 it is plausible that vitamin D and/or vitamin D deficiency have a role in the pathogenesis of mental illness.