[Vitamin K and vascular calcification]

Until recently, vitamin K has been exclusively related to blood coagulation. During the last decade, a second function for vitamin K-dependent proteins has become apparent : the regulation of tissue calcification. One of them is the function of Matrix Gla Protein (MGP) : potent inhibitors of vascular calcification. The function of MGP became clear from transgenic mice (MGP-deficient mice). Further research on MGP will resolve the complicated mechanism of atherosclerosis, especially of the arterial calcification. The recommended daily allowance for vitamin K to prevent vascular calcification should be evaluated.