Vitamin K1 intake and coronary calcification

Todd C. Villines, Christos Hatzigeorgiou, Irwin M. Feuerstein, Patrick G. O'Malley, Allen J. Taylor

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

39 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objectives: The activity of matrix Gla-protein (MGP), a potent inhibitor of vascular calcification, is dependent on carboxylation using vitamin K as a co-factor. In animals, low intake of total vitamin K has been shown to accelerate vascular calcification via the MGP mechanism. This has led to the hypothesis that low levels of dietary vitamin K intake may be a risk factor for accelerated vascular calcification in humans due to decreased MGP activity. Additionally, some authors have suggested that current recommended daily intake values for vitamin K might be insufficient to fully inhibit vascular calcification via the MGP mechanism. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between dietary vitamin K1 (the most prevalent dietary form of vitamin K) intake and premature coronary artery calcification (CAC) in an asymptomatic screening population. Methods: We conducted a prospective study of 807 consecutive active-duty US Army personnel, 39-45 years of age, without known coronary heart disease. Vitamin K1 intake was measured with the Block Dietary Questionnaire and CAC was identified using electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT). Results: We found no significant correlation between CAC score and vitamin K1 intake (r= 0.132, P= 0.106). Multivariate analysis with adjustment for cardiac risk factors showed no association between dietary vitamin K1 intake and CAC. Conclusions: Dietary vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) intake appears to be unrelated to premature coronary calcification in a screening population. Further investigation into the relationship of vascular calcification and other forms of vitamin K1 (menaquinones) is indicated.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)199-203
Number of pages5
JournalCoronary Artery Disease
Volume16
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2005
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Atherosclerosis
  • Calcification
  • Diet
  • Vitamin K

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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