Vitamin K for joints: effect on bone tissue

Vitamin K for joints: effect on bone tissue

I. Vitamin K: General representation

1. Definition and chemical structure: Vitamin K is a group of fat -soluble vitamins, structurally general naftokhinon nucleus. It plays a key role in blood coagulation, bone metabolism and cellular regulation. There are several forms of vitamin K, the most important of which are vitamin K1 (phyllokhinon) and vitamin K2 (menachinon). Fillokhinon is found in green leafy vegetables, and menachinons are synthesized by bacteria in the intestines and are found in fermented products. Various menachinons are indicated by MK-N, where N indicates the number of isopRenil units in the side chain. For example, MK-4 and MK-7 are the most studied forms.

2. The history of the discovery: The history of the discovery of vitamin K begins with blood coagulation studies in chickens conducted by Danish scientist Henrica Lady in 1929. Dam found that a diet, devoid of a certain factor, causes hemorrhagic manifestations in chickens. This factor, which he called the “coagulation vitamin” (from here and “K”), was isolated and characterized as a fat -soluble substance. Further studies of Eduard Dozi (in the USA) led to the allocation and identification of the chemical structure of Vitamin K. in 1943, the Lady and Dozi was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine for their discoveries related to vitamin K.

3. Forms of vitamin K: K1 (Phillokhinon) and K2 (Menakhinon):

   • Vitamin K1 (Phillokhinon): The main form of vitamin K coming with food. Contained in green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, salad), vegetable oils (olive, soybean) and some fruits. Fillokhinon plays an important role in maintaining normal blood coagulation. It is quickly metabolized in the liver and has a relatively short half -life.

   • Vitamin K2 (Menahinon): It is synthesized by bacteria in the intestines and is present in fermented products, such as NATTO (fermented soybeans), cheese and dairy products. Menakhinons (MK-N) have a different length of the side chain, which affects their bioavailability and activity. MK-4 is synthesized in fifter fabrics and plays a local role in some organs. MK-7 and other long-chain menachinons have a longer half-life and higher bioavailability compared to phyllokhinon. Menakhinons play an important role in bone health and cardiovascular system.

4. Vitamin K metabolism: Vitamin K is absorbed in the small intestine along with fats. For absorption, bile acids and pancreatic enzymes are required. After absorption, vitamin K is included in chilomicrons and is transported to the liver. In the liver, phyllokhinone is metabolized and can be used to synthesize blood coagulation factors. Menikhinons are absorbed more slowly, but have a longer half -life and are distributed into various fabrics, including bone. Vitamin K is excreted from the body with bile and urine.

5. Vitamin K functions in the body:

   • Blood coagulation: Vitamin K is a cofactor for the Gamma-Glutamil of carboxylase, which modifies the blood coagulation factors II (prothrombin), VII, IX and X. This modification (gamma carboxylation) is necessary to bind coagulation factors with calcium ions and their activation in the stooping cascade. Vitamin K deficiency leads to a impaired blood coagulation and an increased risk of bleeding.
   • Bone metabolism: Vitamin K plays an important role in maintaining bone health. It is necessary for gamma carboxylation of osteocalcin, protein secreted by osteoblasts (cells that form bone tissue). Gamma-carboxylated osteocalcine is associated with calcium and contributes to the mineralization of bone tissue. Vitamin K also affects other bone matrix proteins, such as the matrix GLAR (MGP), which inhibits the calcification of soft tissues.
   • Other functions: Vitamin K can play a role in the regulation of cellular growth, preventing the calcification of arteries and maintaining the normal function of insulin. Studies show that vitamin K can have an antioxidant and anti -inflammatory effect.

II. The effect of vitamin K on bone tissue

1. The role of vitamin K in bone mineralization: Vitamin K is a key player in the process of bone mineralization. It is necessary to activate osteocalcin, calcium-binding protein produced by osteoblasts. Osteokalcin, in carboxylated form (thanks to vitamin K), has the ability to connect calcium ions and transport them to bone tissue, contributing to the formation of hydroxyapatitis, the main mineral component of bones. This process strengthens the bone structure and increases its density. The deficiency of vitamin K leads to insufficient carboxation of osteocalcin, reducing its effectiveness in bone mineralization and increasing the risk of osteoporosis.

2. Osteokalcin: Activation and functions: Osteokalcin is a vitamin K-dependent protein, synthesized by osteoblasts and constitutes a significant part of the bone matrix non-coollagen proteins. He plays a key role in the regulation of bone mineralization and calcium homeostasis. For its activity, osteocalcin must be carboxylated, which occurs under the influence of vitamin K. carboxylated osteocalcin has high affinity to calcium and phosphate ions, linking them and directing them to bone tissue for the formation of hydroxyapatitis crystals.

   Nonerboxylated osteocalcin (UCOC) also has biological activity, different from carboxylated. It is released from bone tissue and circulates in the blood, where glucose and sensitivity to insulin can affect metabolism. Studies show that UCOC can stimulate the secretion of insulin with pancreatic beta-cells and improve the utilization of glucose in peripheral tissues.

3. Influence on the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts: Vitamin K affects the activity of both osteoblasts (cells that form the bone) and osteoclasts (cells that destroy the bone), contributing to the balance between bone formation and resorption.

   • Ostoroblasts: Vitamin K stimulates the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts, increasing the number of cells that can form a new bone tissue. It also enhances the synthesis of osteocalcin and other bone matrix proteins, contributing to the strengthening of the bone structure.

   • Osteoclasts: Vitamin K can inhibit the formation and activity of osteoclasts, reducing the rate of bone resorption. It affects the signaling paths involved in the differentiation of osteoclasts, thereby reducing the number of cells that destroy the bone.

   Maintaining the balance between the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts is extremely important for maintaining healthy bone tissue. Vitamin K contributes to this balance, stimulating bone formation and suppressing bone resorption.

4. Matrix GLA-beam (MGP): role in preventing soft tissue calcification: The matrix GLA-beam (MGP) is another vitamin K-dependent protein that plays an important role in preventing the calcification of soft tissues, especially in blood vessels and cartilage. MGP is synthesized by chondrocytes (cartilage tissue cells) and vascular smooth muscle cells. For its activity, MGP also requires gamma carboxylation under the influence of vitamin K.

   Carboxylated MGP (CMGP) inhibits calcium precipitation in soft tissues, connecting calcium ions and preventing the formation of phosphate calcium crystals. Vitamin K deficiency leads to insufficient MGP carboxation, which increases the risk of calcification of soft tissues, including atherosclerosis and calcification of articular cartilage.

   Maintaining an adequate level of vitamin K is important for ensuring sufficient MGP carboxation and protect soft tissues from unwanted calcification.

5. Vitamin K and collagen: Collagen is the main structural protein of bone tissue, making up about 90% of its organic matrix. Collagen fibers provide bone strength and elasticity. Although vitamin K does not directly participate in the synthesis of collagen, it can indirectly affect its structure and function.

   Some studies show that vitamin K can affect post -translative modifications of collagen, such as glycosylation and hydroxylation, which are necessary for the formation of stable and strong collagen fibers. In addition, vitamin K, through the influence of osteoblasts and the synthesis of other bone matrix proteins, can contribute to the organization and integration of collagen fibers into the bone structure.

6. Interaction with other vitamins and minerals (calcium, vitamin D): Vitamin K interacts with other vitamins and minerals, in particular with calcium and vitamin D, in maintaining bone health.

   • Calcium: Calcium is the main mineral component of bone tissue. Vitamin K helps to bind calcium with osteocalcin and its transport into bone tissue. Adequate calcium consumption is necessary to ensure a sufficient amount of the mineral substrate for the formation of bones.

   • Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a key role in the regulation of calcium absorption in the intestines and maintaining the level of calcium in the blood. It also affects the differentiation and activity of osteoblasts. Vitamin K and vitamin D act synergistically in maintaining bone health. Vitamin D helps to increase the synthesis of osteocalcin, and vitamin K activates this protein by carboxylation.

   Joint consumption of vitamin K, calcium and vitamin D can have a more pronounced effect on bone health than the consumption of each of these nutrients separately.

III. Vitamin K and joint health

1. Influence on cartilage tissue: Vitamin K can affect the health of cartilage tissue, although the mechanisms of this influence have not been fully studied. Cartilage tissue, unlike bone, does not contain osteocalcine, but contains MGP, which plays a role in preventing calcification.

   • Prevention of calcification of cartilage: Vitamin K, by means of MGP activation, can prevent the calcification of articular cartilage. Calcification of cartilage is one of the pathological processes observed during osteoarthritis, leading to a deterioration in the mechanical properties of cartilage and the progression of degenerative changes.

   • Regulation of inflammation: Some studies show that vitamin K can have an anti -inflammatory effect that can be useful for maintaining joint health. Inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and other joint diseases.

2. Role in the prevention of osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease of the joints characterized by the destruction of cartilage and inflammation. Several studies have shown that the low level of vitamin K in the blood can be associated with an increased risk of OA development.

   • Carriage protection: Vitamin K, by activating MGP, can protect the cartilage from calcification and degeneration.
   • Anti -inflammatory effect: The anti -inflammatory effect of vitamin K can help reduce joint inflammation and slow down the progression of the OA.
   • The effect on bone metabolism: Changes in bone metabolism, such as subchondral sclerosis, also play a role in the development of OA. Vitamin K, improving bone metabolism, can have a positive effect on the course of OA.

3. Influence on rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic joint inflammation. The role of vitamin K in RA is less studied than in OA, but some studies show that it can have a positive effect on the course of the disease.

   • Anti -inflammatory action: Vitamin K can reduce the level of inflammatory markers in the blood, thereby reducing inflammation in the joints.
   • Bone protection: Ra is often accompanied by osteoporosis. Vitamin K, improving bone metabolism, can help prevent bone weight in patients with RA.
   • Influence on cartilage tissue: Similarly, OA, vitamin K can protect cartilage tissue from degradation with RA.

4. Clinical research and evidence of effectiveness: Clinical studies that study the effects of vitamin to the health of the joints give ambiguous results. Some studies show that the intake of vitamin K can reduce the risk of OA development and slow down the progression of the disease, while other studies have not revealed a significant connection.

   Further studies are needed to establish optimal doses of vitamin K to maintain joint health and determine which forms of vitamin K (K1 or K2) are most effective. It is also important to consider the interaction of vitamin K with other nutrients and drugs.

5. Prospects for further research: Further research in the effect of vitamin K on the health of the joints should be aimed at:

   • Determination of optimal doses and forms of vitamin K: It is necessary to determine what doses and forms of vitamin K (K1 or K2) are most effective for the prevention and treatment of joint diseases.
   • Study of action mechanisms: It is necessary to study the mechanisms in more detail by which vitamin K affects cartilage, bone tissue and inflammation in the joints.
   • Conducting major clinical research: Large, well -planned clinical studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of vitamin K in the prevention and treatment of OA and RA.
   • Studying interaction with other nutrients and drugs: It is necessary to take into account the interaction of vitamin K with other nutrients and drugs during clinical studies.

IV. Vitamin K deficiency: causes and consequences

1. Causes of vitamin K deficiency: Vitamin K deficiency can be caused by various factors, including:

   • Insufficient consumption with food: Insufficient consumption of products rich in vitamin K, such as green leafy vegetables and fermented products.
   • Distribution of absorption: Diseases that violate the absorption of fat, such as cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease and obstruction of the biliary tract, can lead to deficiency of vitamin K.
   • Taking some drugs: Reception of anticoagulants (for example, warfarin), antibiotics (especially wide spectrum of action) and chill can violate metabolism and absorption of vitamin K.
   • Violation of the synthesis of vitamin K2 in the intestines: Long -term use of antibiotics can disrupt the bacterial flora of the intestine and reduce the synthesis of vitamin K2.
   • Liver diseases: Liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, can disrupt vitamin K.’s metabolism
   • In newborns: Newborns have low vitamin K reserves, and their intestines are not yet colonized by bacteria synthesizing vitamin K2. Therefore, newborns are often administered vitamin K after birth to prevent bleeding.

2. Symptoms of vitamin K deficiency: Symptoms of vitamin K deficiency include:

   • Increased bleeding: A slight formation of bruises, bleeding from the nose and gums, abundant menstruation, bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract and urinary tract.
   • Osteoporosis and fractures: Vitamin K deficiency increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, especially in the elderly.
   • Calcification of soft tissues: Vitamin K deficiency can lead to calcification of arteries and other soft tissues.
   • Hemorrhages in newborns: In newborns, vitamin K deficiency can cause severe hemorrhages to the brain and other organs.

3. Diagnosis of vitamin K deficiency: Diagnosis of vitamin K deficiency includes:

   • Blood test for coagulation factors: Conducting a coagulogram to assess the activity of blood coagulation of II, VII, IX and X. An increase in prothrombin time (PV) may indicate a deficiency of vitamin K.
   • Determining the level of vitamin K in the blood: Measurement of the level of phyllokhinon (K1) and menachinons (K2) in the blood.
   • Determination of the level of non -carboxilized osteocalcin (UCOC): An increased UCOC level may indicate a deficiency of vitamin K and insufficient carboxation of osteocalcin.
   • Determining the level of non -carboxilized MGP (UCMGP): An increased UCMGP level may indicate a deficiency of vitamin K and increased risk of soft tissue calcification.

4. Risk groups by vitamin K deficiency: Risk groups for the development of vitamin K deficiency include:

   • Newborns:
   • Persons with diseases that violate fat absorption:
   • Persons taking anticoagulants:
   • Persons who take antibiotics for a long time:
   • Persons with liver diseases:
   • Elderly people: Older people often have insufficient consumption of vitamin K with food and may have violations of absorption.

5. Treatment and prevention of vitamin K deficiency: Treatment and prevention of vitamin K deficiency includes:

   • Increased consumption of products rich in vitamin K: The use of green leafy vegetables, fermented products and vegetable oils.
   • Reception of vitamin K additives: Reception of the additives of Phillokhinon (K1) or menachinons (K2). The dosage of the additives should be determined by the doctor.
   • The introduction of vitamin to the newborn: The introduction of vitamin to newborns after birth to prevent bleeding.
   • Correction of diseases that violate absorption: Treatment of diseases that violate fat absorption.
   • Control of medication: Thorough control of taking anticoagulants and other drugs that can disrupt vitamin K.’s metabolism.

V. Sources of vitamin K: food and additives

1. Food, rich in vitamin K1 (phyllokhinon): The main sources of vitamin K1 are green leafy vegetables:

   • Spinach:
   • Kale cabbage:
   • Broccoli:
   • Salad:
   • Parsley:
   • Brussels sprouts:
   • Green onions:
   • Avocado:
   • Kiwi:

   Vegetable oils, such as olive and soy, also contain vitamin K1.

2. Food products rich in vitamin K2 (menachinon): Vitamin K2 is synthesized by bacteria and is contained in enzyme products and products of animal origin:

   • NATTO (fermented soybeans): Nato is the richest source of vitamin K2 (MK-7).
   • SHE: Some types of cheese, such as Gauda and Bree, contain vitamin K2.
   • Sour -milk products: Kefir and yogurt may contain vitamin K2, depending on the bacterial crops used.
   • Egg yolk:
   • Chicken liver:
   • Fermented cabbage (sauerkraut):

3. Vitamin K additives: types, dosage and safety: Vitamin K additives are available in the form of phyllokhinon (K1) and menachinons (K2).

   • Philiblin (K1): It is usually used to correct vitamin K deficiency and improve blood coagulation.
   • Menahinone (K2): MK-4 and MK-7 are the most common forms of vitamin K2 in addition. MK-7 has a longer half-life and higher bioavailability compared to MK-4.

   The recommended daily dose of vitamin K is 90 μg for women and 120 μg for men. The dosage of the additives should be determined by the doctor based on individual needs and health status.

   Vitamin K is considered safe when taking recommended doses. However, when taking high doses of vitamin K, you should consult a doctor, especially if you take anticoagulants.

4. Recommendations for taking vitamin K:

   • Include products rich in vitamin K in your diet: Supervise green leafy vegetables, fermented products and animal products daily.
   • Consult a doctor: If you have a risk of vitamin K deficiency or you take anticoagulants, consult your doctor about taking the additives of vitamin K.
   • Follow the recommended dosage: Do not exceed the recommended dosage of vitamin K without consulting a doctor.
   • Consider the interaction with drugs: Vitamin K can interact with some drugs, so it is important to consult a doctor before taking additives.
   • Take vitamin K with fats: Vitamin K is a fat -soluble vitamin, so it should be taken with food containing fats to improve absorption.

5. Interaction of vitamin K with drugs (for example, warfarin): Vitamin K interacts with anticoagulants such as warfarin (kumadin). Varfarin inhibits the action of vitamin K, blocking gamma carboxylation of blood coagulation factors. Taking vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of warfarin and increase the risk of blood clots.

   Patients taking warfarin should maintain constant consumption of vitamin K with food and avoid sharp changes in the diet. They must also regularly control the IN (international normalized attitude) and adjust the dose of warfarin in accordance with the recommendations of the doctor.

   Reception of vitamin for patients taking warfarin should be carried out only under the strict supervision of a doctor.

VI. Vitamin K and age -related changes in bone tissue and joints

1. Age -related decrease in bone density: With age, a natural decrease in bone density occurs, which increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. In women, a decrease in bone density is especially accelerated after menopause due to a decrease in estrogen levels.

   Vitamin K plays an important role in maintaining bone health in old age. It contributes to the mineralization of bone tissue, improves the activity of osteoblasts and reduces the activity of osteoclasts.

2. Age changes in cartilage and joints: With age, cartilage fabric loses elasticity and becomes more susceptible to damage. Degenerative changes, such as the destruction of cartilage, the formation of osteophytes and inflammation, occur in the joints. These changes lead to the development of osteoarthritis.

   Vitamin K can have a positive effect on the health of cartilage and joints in old age. It can prevent cartilage calcification, reduce inflammation and improve bone metabolism.

3. The role of vitamin K in maintaining the health of bones and joints in old age: Vitamin K plays an important role in maintaining the health of bones and joints in old age:

   • Prevention of osteoporosis: Vitamin K contributes to the mineralization of bone tissue and prevents the loss of bone mass.
   • Reduction of risk of fractures: Vitamin K strengthens the bone structure and reduces the risk of fractures.
   • Carriage protection: Vitamin K prevents the calcification of cartilage and protects it from degeneration.
   • Reduced inflammation: Vitamin K reduces inflammation in the joints and slows down the progression of osteoarthritis.

4. Recommendations for taking vitamin K for older people:

   • Increase the consumption of products rich in vitamin K: Supervise green leafy vegetables, fermented products and animal products daily.
   • Consult a doctor: Consult a doctor about taking vitamin K additives, especially if you have an osteoporosis risk or you take anticoagulants.
   • Follow the recommended dosage: Do not exceed the recommended dosage of vitamin K without consulting a doctor.
   • Take vitamin K with calcium and vitamin D: The joint intake of vitamin K, calcium and vitamin D can have a more pronounced effect on bone health.
   • Regularly engage in physical exercises: Exercise contributes to the strengthening of bones and joints.

5. Studies on the use of vitamin K in older people with osteoporosis and osteoarthritis: Studies show that the intake of vitamin K can be useful for the elderly with osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.

   • Osteoporosis: Some studies have shown that the intake of vitamin K (MK-7) can increase the density of bone tissue and reduce the risk of fractures in elderly women with osteoporosis.
   • Osteoarthritis: Some studies have shown that the intake of vitamin K can slow down the progression of osteoarthritis and reduce joint pain in the elderly.

   However, further studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of vitamin K in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis in the elderly.

VII. Conclusion: The role of vitamin K in maintaining the health of bones and joints

1. Vitamin K value for bone tissue: Vitamin K plays a key role in bone metabolism, participating in the carboxylation of osteocalcin, necessary for the mineralization of bones. The adequate level of vitamin K helps strengthen the bone structure and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

2. Vitamin K potential for joint health: Vitamin K can have a positive effect on the health of the joints, preventing cartilage calcification, reducing inflammation and improving bone metabolism. Studies show that vitamin K can be useful for the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

3. The need for further research: Further research is needed to determine the optimal doses and forms of vitamin K to maintain bone health and joints, as well as to study the mechanisms of its action and interaction with other nutrients and drugs.

4. Practical recommendations for ensuring sufficient vitamin K consumption:

   • Use products rich in vitamin K: Include green leafy vegetables, fermented products and animal products in your diet.
   • Consult a doctor: Consult a doctor about taking vitamin K additives, especially if you have a risk of vitamin K deficiency, osteoporosis or you take anticoagulants.
   • Follow the dosage recommendations: Do not exceed the recommended dosage of vitamin K without consulting a doctor.

5. Future areas of vitamin K research and its influence on the musculoskeletal system: Future research should be aimed at studying the effects of vitamin K on various aspects of the health of bones and joints, such as:

   • Vitamin K action mechanisms at the cellular level: The study of the influence of vitamin K on the signaling paths in osteoblasts, osteoclasts and chondrocytes.
   • The effect of vitamin K on the structure and composition of bone tissue: Assessment of the effect of vitamin K on bone density, bone microarchitecture and collagen content.
   • The influence of vitamin K on the metabolism of cartilage tissue: The study of the effect of vitamin K on the synthesis and degradation of cartilage, as well as on inflammatory processes in the joints.
   • Clinical studies on the use of vitamin K in the prevention and treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system: Conducting large, well -planned clinical studies to assess the effectiveness of vitamin K in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and other joint diseases.
   • Development of new forms and methods of delivery of vitamin K: The creation of new forms of vitamin K with improved bioavailability and efficiency, as well as the development of new ways to deliver vitamin K to bone and cartilage.

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