Most vitamin D necessary for human health and reproductive success is produced through biosynthesis

initiated by skin exposure to UV-B photons. The lower rates of cutaneous synthesis of vitamin D that result
from low UV environments have a wide range of health consequences. Vitamin D is among a large family of
fat-soluble micronutrients that accumulate in adipose tissue proportional to circulating serum levels, and is
released slowly as serum levels reduce. The physiological effects of vitamin D deficiency range from reduced
dietary absorption of calcium to a compromised immune system and modified adipose tissue function. The
ectodysplasin A receptor (EDAR) gene has a range of pleiotropic effects, including sweat gland density,
incisor shoveling, and mammary gland ductal branching.