vitamin k

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that functions as an essential cofactor for the enzyme gamma-glutamyl carboxylase, which is responsible for the post-translational modification (gamma-carboxylation) of vitamin K-dependent proteins (VKDPs). This process is critical for the activation of proteins such as osteocalcin, which regulates bone mineralization, and matrix Gla protein (MGP), which inhibits the calcification of soft tissues and blood vessels. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) has sponsored Phase 3 clinical research (NCT00183001) to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin K supplementation in addressing the 'calcium paradox'—the concurrent development of osteoporosis and vascular calcification in the elderly. By activating VKDPs, vitamin K helps direct calcium into the bone matrix while preventing its accumulation in the arterial walls.

Other names

phylloquinonemenaquinonevitamin K1vitamin K2