Tag: Protein s

Approximately 17 human proteins, including several key components of the coagulation cascade, depend on vitamin K for proper activation. This fat-soluble vitamin acts as an essential cofactor for the enzyme gamma-glutamyl carboxylase, which enables critical blood proteins to bind calcium and function correctly. When considering which clotting factors are affected by vitamin K, it is important to understand that its influence extends to both procoagulant and anticoagulant proteins.

According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin K is essential for the proper function of several critical proteins involved in blood clotting. This process includes the synthesis of important vitamin K dependent anticoagulant factors, which are responsible for regulating the coagulation cascade and preventing uncontrolled clotting.

While severe dietary protein deficiency can contribute to overall poor health, inherited deficiencies of specific proteins, such as Protein S or Protein C, are directly linked to an increased risk of blood clots, which can cause stroke. The relationship between protein levels and cerebrovascular events is more nuanced than a simple dietary question suggests.