VDR and colitis: Additionally, SOCS1 is a critical negative modulator of JAK/STAT pathway and functions in inhibiting systemic autoimmunity mediated by dendritic cells.16 Vitamin D receptor (VDR) belongs to the steroid receptor family and its protective effects against colitis have been reported.17,18 It has been reported that STAT3 signaling contributes to downregulation of VDR.