Physiological and Cellular Functions of Vitamin K on Cardiovascular Function

Abstract

This chapter reviews the physiological and cellular functions of vitamin K in the cardiovascular system based on the latest pre-clinical and clinical evidence. Vitamin K belongs to a family of structurally similar fat-soluble vitamins, actively required by the body for the synthesis of essential proteins as well as regulate blood clotting, bone metabolism and calcium level. The authors emphasize the quintessential association between dietary vitamin K2 and cardiovascular diseases shown in various studies. The association, through the vitamin K - dependent hormones, plays a primary role in regulating calcification of different cell types, especially their role in calcification of the vascular endothelial cells. The consequences of vitamin K deficiency in the vascular system are unfavorable, shown in various clinical studies on statins - well-known inhibitors of vitamin K production in the body. New clinical insights suggest that vitamin K levels in the body and its dietary supplementation play a crucial role in cardiovascular disease prevention. There is negative influence of these antagonist’s pate in vascular composition and functions. Therefore, there is a need for prospective studies to make more in-depth exploration and increase the current understanding of this critical relationship to confidently apply such knowledge to prevent cardiovascular diseases and improve their outcomes.

Bay Laurel of Northern Morocco: A Comprehensive Analysis of Its Phytochemical Profile, Mineralogical Composition, and Antioxidant Potential

“…These minerals are essential to human health because they support enzyme activity, cardiovascular health, and bone health [10,11]. Potassium (K), another necessary nutrient found in significant concentrations, is critical for preserving cardiovascular health and cellular function [12,13]. Despite being found in lesser amounts than calcium and magnesium, iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) are essential for the transfer of oxygen and the operation of enzymes, respectively [14,15].…”

Fat-soluble vitamins: updated review of their role and orchestration in human nutrition throughout life cycle with sex differences

“…Modulates Fatty acids translocase (FAT)/CD36 scavenger receptor → Anti-oxidant activity [43][44][45][46] T cell Promotes IL-2 production → boostering T cell dividing capability (immunostimulant) [47] Liver Oxidized to α-TQ → lipotoxicity plasma biomarker in fatty liver subjects [48,49] GM in the intestine Reduces the abundance of Lactobacillaceae and Bacteroides → affecting GM [50] Vitamin K Endoplasmic reticulum of mammalian cells Acts as a cofactor for the enzyme gamma glutamate carboxylase (GGCX) → regulates coagulation [51] Vascular endothelial cells Regulates calcification of vascular endothelial cells → increasing the risk of stroke and blood clots [52] Brain cell membranes Participates in sphingolipids biosynthesis → development of central nervous system (CNS) by participating in sphingolipids biosynthesis → they are essential component of the brain cell membranes [53,54] GM in the intestine Affects the GM profile → decreasing the risk of colorectal cancer (anti-carcinogenic effect) [55] fetal organs and the fetal skeleton [57]. Vitamin A has an indisputable role in ocular function, as it is involved in cell differentiation, maintenance of eye integrity, and prevention of xerophthalmia [58].…”