1 — Cognitive Function and Neurological Health

This aspect is particularly intriguing in my research on cognitive science. Laboratory studies indicate that Vitamin K2 has a protective effect on neurons. For instance, MK-4, a type of Vitamin K2, has been shown to enhance energy production and alleviate a mutation linked to Parkinson's disease.

Recent findings have uncovered a new protective mechanism of Vitamin K2 for neurons via a unique P38 MAP kinase pathway. Additionally, various forms akin to Vitamin K2 have demonstrated significant involvement in the development of nerve cells.

In a groundbreaking study, researchers evaluated Vitamin K2's influence on nerve activity among a group of 45 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and 29 healthy controls. They found significantly lower levels of K2 in MS patients compared to their age- and gender-matched counterparts.

Furthermore, K2 levels correlated with neurological symptoms and optic nerve damage. These findings suggest that Vitamin K2 may play a crucial role in developing and managing neurological disorders.

2 — Immune System Function

Recent investigations have revealed a novel role for Vitamin K2 in modulating the immune system. Initially, MK-7 was found to affect the expression of specific immune-related molecules, such as TNF-?, IL-1?, and IL-1?. Building on this, Vitamin K2 inhibited T-cell proliferation in healthy individuals, a response not observed with Vitamin K1.

This finding was corroborated by studies on T-cells from children with atopic dermatitis and patients undergoing dialysis, where Vitamin K2 diminished both the number of active T-cells and their proliferation. This accumulating evidence suggests that Vitamin K2 may function as a regulator of immune response.

However, the precise mechanisms through which Vitamin K2 exerts these effects remain unclear and warrant further exploration. This understanding could illuminate new pathways through which Vitamin K2 influences immune functionality.

3 — Chronic Kidney Disease

Vitamin K2 shows promise for enhancing kidney health and presenting new strategies for managing chronic kidney disease (CKD).

The dp-ucMGP level, a recognized marker for Vitamin K deficiency, was initially noted in CKD patients. As CKD advances, dp-ucMGP levels in the bloodstream typically rise.

Supplementation with Vitamin K2 has demonstrated positive impacts by improving renal artery function and preventing further calcification, which is beneficial for kidney health. Moreover, studies suggest that Vitamin K2 supplementation may enhance glomerular filtration, another critical aspect of kidney function.

The potential of Vitamin K2 in treating CKD appears promising, and ongoing large-scale studies are investigating its therapeutic effects in CKD patients.

4 — Type II Diabetes

Long-term Vitamin K2 intake has been associated with a reduced risk of developing type II diabetes. In the most extensive study involving 38,000 participants aged 20 to 70, a daily intake of just 10 µg of K2 decreased diabetes risk by 7%.

Researchers continue to explore how Vitamin K2 achieves this effect. It is known to activate osteocalcin, which has been observed in laboratory studies to promote pancreatic beta cell growth, increase insulin production, and stimulate the expression of CyclinD1, a protein involved in regulating the cell cycle.

The exact mechanisms through which Vitamin K2 influences diabetes remain under investigation. It is hypothesized that a complex interplay between osteocalcin, lectin, and adiponectin hormones affects glucose metabolism, which Vitamin K2 may modulate.

These emerging insights suggest that Vitamin K2 could play a role in glucose regulation and diabetes management, but further research is required for a comprehensive understanding.

5 — Cancers

Vitamin K2 has garnered attention in cancer treatment research. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that K2 can inhibit the growth and spread of various cancer cell types.

The mechanisms through which it combats cancer, including pathways such as protein kinase A and protein kinase C, have been reviewed. In clinical interventions, integrating vitamin K2 with conventional cancer treatments has been found to reduce cancer progression in patients who achieved complete remission.

Importantly, Vitamin K2's anticancer effects are not limited to a single type; it has shown promise across multiple cancer forms and is being explored as a valuable addition to standard cancer therapies, with encouraging results.

6 — Liver Health

Vitamin K is well-known for its role in the liver, particularly regarding the production of clotting factors and activation of specific proteins. Most research has focused on K1, but K2 appears to be more potent and may function similarly in liver tissues.

Recent studies suggest that Vitamin K2 may support liver cell regeneration and development, indicating its potential significance in liver growth. Certain trials have suggested that MK-4, a variant of K2, could be effective against liver cancers associated with cirrhosis, whether alcohol-related or not.

There is also a positive trend in using Vitamin K2 supplements to address liver cirrhosis, though more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and clarify its impact on liver diseases.

7 — Obesity and Weight Management

The relationship between osteocalcin and adiponectin presents an intriguing area of study, though the specifics of their interaction remain uncertain.

In studies involving mice, elevated levels of uncarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) were associated with reduced fat and improved glucose metabolism. Similarly, both Vitamin K1 and MK-4 supplements led to decreased fat and triglyceride levels in rats.

Researchers identified a specific factor (VKORC1L1) that promotes fat cell formation. When this factor was reduced, Vitamin K2 levels within cells increased, inhibiting the development of immature fat cells. Human studies further support the notion that Vitamin K2 supplementation may benefit body weight, waist circumference, body composition, visceral fat, and diabetes management.

These findings imply that Vitamin K2 may positively influence glucose and fat metabolism for weight management. However, further investigation is essential for confirmation.

8 — Bone Health (Degeneration and Fractures)

As discussed in previous articles, maintaining robust bones is vital to prevent osteoporosis, especially as we age.

Vitamin K2 has been shown to enhance bone quality and reduce fracture risk, particularly in studies involving individuals over 50. I provided several tips to lower osteoporosis risk and strengthen bones.

Research indicates that newborns typically have lower levels of Vitamin K, including both K1 and K2, which can lead to deficiency. Addressing this deficiency is crucial, particularly for Vitamin K2, as it supports proper bone development and mineralization. Insufficient Vitamin K2 in infants may adversely affect their bone health and development.

Mutations in Vitamin K-dependent enzymes can result in birth defects affecting bone and cartilage development, further supporting this idea. In laboratory studies, treatment with Vitamin K2 has been found to promote the growth of bone-forming cells. While the exact mechanisms are still being researched, a protein known as osteocalcin plays a recognized role in bone function.

Ongoing population studies aim to provide greater insights into how Vitamin K2 influences bone health and development, contributing to our understanding of its role in maintaining strong bones.

9 — Cardiovascular Health

I reserved this topic for last, as cardiometabolic diseases are significant contributors to mortality and morbidity. Heart disease, for instance, is a leading cause of death globally. I have previously addressed these issues in detail, so I will summarize the seven key risk factors.

The critical point here is that calcification in blood vessels is a detrimental process associated with cardiovascular disease. Vitamin K2-dependent proteins act as a defense against this calcification, safeguarding our blood vessels.

Studies utilizing Vitamin K2 (MK-7) have consistently demonstrated its long-term protective effects against calcification in both healthy individuals and those with health conditions. Furthermore, Vitamin K2 has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and has shown potential in reversing arterial stiffness and enhancing blood vessel flexibility, especially when taken as a supplement.

Interestingly, among the various forms of Vitamin K, only K2 has been shown to be beneficial for cardiovascular health, not K1. The significant role of K2 in heart health is well-established.

Ongoing large-scale studies around the globe are further investigating the impact of Vitamin K2 on cardiovascular conditions. These studies aim to provide more robust evidence supporting Vitamin K2's role in preventing cardiovascular complications.

Conclusions and Takeaways

For over 80 years, the significance of Vitamin K in blood coagulation has been acknowledged by scientists. Health organizations have set recommended intake levels for Vitamin K primarily based on the need for coagulation maintenance. However, the discovery of various forms of Vitamin K reveals broader roles beyond this, particularly with K2 demonstrating benefits for heart health and bone density.

Though K1 and K2 have historically been grouped together, they can have markedly different effects on the body. Recognizing these distinctions is vital for health organizations globally and should be a focus of ongoing research.

Studies indicate that K2 is particularly notable for its activities outside the liver, extending to other organs and systems. Increasing evidence suggests that Vitamin K2 is involved in a variety of bodily processes and may offer protective benefits for different organs.

While this new understanding of Vitamin K is promising, it remains to be seen whether it will lead to novel health discoveries. Despite many trials showing positive outcomes with Vitamin K2, scientists are still working to elucidate its precise mechanisms in the body.

In summary, Vitamin K2 shows potential across numerous bodily functions, but continued research is essential to fully grasp its capabilities and mechanisms in treating and preventing diseases across various systems.

Gut bacteria produce Vitamin K2, similar to several other vitamins. Healthcare professionals recommend obtaining vitamins primarily through dietary sources, and considering supplementation under professional guidance if dietary intake is inadequate.

Key sources of Vitamin K2 include fermented foods like natto and animal products such as eggs, poultry, red meat, fatty dairy, and organ meats like beef liver. Personally, I do not require supplementation since I consume these items regularly. However, some individuals—especially those with specific dietary limitations or reduced gut synthesis—may need to supplement this vital vitamin discussed in this article.

I have authored numerous articles on various other nutrients, which you may find in the attached list.

Valuable Nutrients and Supplements

[dr-mehmet-yildiz.medium.com](https://dr-mehmet-yildiz.medium.com)

Thank you for taking the time to read my insights. Wishing you a healthy and fulfilling life.

Prominent References Related to K2 for Researchers

• Vitamin K has the potential to protect neurons from methylmercury-induced cell death In Vitro. [Journal of Neuroscience Research]
• Vitamin K2 Is a Mitochondrial Electron Carrier That Rescues Pink1 Deficiency [Science]
• Two enzymes catalyze vitamin K 2,3-epoxide reductase activity in mouse: VKORC1 is highly expressed in exocrine tissues, while VKORC1L1 is highly expressed in the brain. [Thrombosis Research]
• Vitamin K2 protects PC12 cells against A? (1–42) and H2O2-induced apoptosis via p38 MAP kinase pathway [Nutrtional Neuroscience]
• Inhibition of TNF-?, IL-1?, and IL-1? by Pretreatment of Human Monocyte-Derived Macrophages with Menaquinone-7 and Cell Activation with TLR Agonists In Vitro [Journal of Medicinal Food]
• Vitamin K1 and Vitamin K2 immunopharmacological effects on the peripheral lymphocytes of healthy subjects and dialysis patients, as estimated by the lymphocyte immunosuppressant sensitivity test [Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therepeutics]
• Plasma Desphospho-Uncarboxylated Matrix Gla Protein as a Marker of Kidney Damage and Cardiovascular Risk in Advanced Stage of Chronic Kidney Disease [Karger]
• Vitamin K Dependent Protection of Renal Function in Multi-ethnic Population Studies [eBioMedicine]
• Dietary Phylloquinone and Menaquinones Intakes and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes [Diabetes Care of American Diabetes Association]
• Effect of vitamin K2 on type 2 diabetes mellitus: A review [Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice]
• Research progress on the anticancer effects of vitamin K2 [Oncology Letters]
• The role of PKC isoforms in the inhibition of NF-?B activation by vitamin K2 in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells [Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry]
• Vitamin K and hepatocellular carcinoma: The basic and clinic [World Journal of Clinical Cases]
• Pathogenesis, prevention, and management of bleeding and thrombosis in patients with liver diseases [Research and Practice in Thrombosis and Haemostasis]
• Vitamin K2-Enhanced Liver Regeneration is Associated with Oval Cell Expansion and Up-Regulation of Matrilin-2 Expression in 2- AAF/PH Rat Model [Ingenta Connect]
• Endocrine Regulation of Energy Metabolism by the Skeleton [Cell]
• ?-Glutamyl carboxylase in osteoblasts regulates glucose metabolism in mice [Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications]
• The Vitamin K Epoxide Reductase Vkorc1l1 Promotes Preadipocyte Differentiation in Mice [Obesity]
• Serum leptin and adiponectin are positively associated with bone mineral density at the distal radius in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus [Metabolism]
• Intake and sources of phylloquinone in 4-year-old British children: comparison between 1950 and the 1990s [Cambridge Public Health Nutrition]
• New perspectives on rare connective tissue calcifying diseases [Current Opinion in Pharmacology]
• Vitamin K2 promotes mesenchymal stem cell differentiation by inhibiting miR-133a expression [Molecular Medicine Report]
• Vitamin K as Additive Treatment in Osteoporosis [The US Clinical Trials]
• Vitamin K?dependent proteins involved in bone and cardiovascular health [Molecular Medicine Reports]
• Initiation and Propagation of Vascular Calcification Is Regulated by a Concert of Platelet- and Smooth Muscle Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles [Frontiers]
• Prevention of vasculopathy by vitamin K supplementation: Can we turn fiction into fact? [Atherosclerosis]
• Is Matrix Gla Protein Associated with Vascular Calcification? A Systematic Review [Nutrients]
• Vitamin K: Double Bonds Beyond Coagulation Insights into Differences between Vitamin K1 and K2 in Health and Disease [International Journal of Molecular Sciences]

To inform my new readers, I have written numerous articles that may provide valuable insights and inspiration. My topics encompass brain and cognitive function, major health conditions, longevity, nutrition and food, essential nutrients, ketogenic lifestyles, self-healing, weight management, writing and reading, and humor.

I publish my health and wellness articles on EUPHORIA. My posts are not intended as professional or health advice but rather document my reviews, observations, experiences, and insights to inform and raise awareness.

To receive my posts directly in your inbox, you may subscribe to my content. If you are a writer, I welcome you to join my publications by submitting a request through this link. I support 26K+ writers who contribute to my publications on this platform. Additionally, I have another profile dedicated to writing and curating technology stories.