vitamin k1 (also known as phylloquinone) is a vital fat-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in blood clotting, bone metabolism, and the regulation of calcium levels in the blood. it is primarily found in green leafy vegetables and is essential for the synthesis of clotting factors in the liver.
chemical properties
- molecular weight: 450.70 g/mol
- density: 0.97 g/cm³
- melting point: 5°C
- boiling point: decomposes before boiling
- solubility: fat-soluble; insoluble in water; soluble in lipids and organic solvents
- chemical formula: C31H46O2
usefulness in medicine
- vitamin k1 is essential for the production of prothrombin, a protein and clotting factor that is critical in blood coagulation.
- it supports bone health by helping regulate osteocalcin, a protein that binds calcium to the bone matrix.
- it plays a role in preventing vascular calcification, thereby supporting cardiovascular health.
- vitamin k1 is used medically to treat or prevent vitamin k deficiency bleeding in newborns and patients with malabsorption syndromes or on blood thinners like warfarin.
- adequate intake contributes to maintaining healthy arterial flexibility and may reduce the risk of fractures in older adults.
antibacterial and antimicrobial activity
- vitamin k1 is not directly antibacterial, but its role in supporting immune function and tissue repair indirectly strengthens the body's defense.
- its antioxidant properties help maintain cell membrane integrity during microbial infections.
- research highlights: