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The association of vitamin K status with lung function and disease in a general population
Torkil Jespersen1, Freja Bach Kampmann1, Thomas Meinertz Dantoft1
1Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Introduction:
Matrix Gla protein (MGP) is an inhibitor of lung tissue calcification. The plasma level of dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated MGP (dp-ucMGP) is a biomarker of vitamin K status. The present study assessed whether lower vitamin K status (reflected by higher dp-ucMGP) was associated with lung function and lung disease/symptoms.
Methods:
A general population sample of 4092 individuals, aged 24 to 77 years, underwent a health examination including questionnaires, spirometry and measurements of plasma dp-ucMGP. Associations of dp-ucMGP with lung function and self-reported disease/symptoms were estimated using regression models adjusted for age, sex and height. Associations were expressed as β-estimates or odds ratios (ORs) per doubling in dp-ucMGP.
Results:
Lower vitamin K status (higher dp-ucMGP) was associated with lower forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (98 mL; 95% CI: 54-141 mL) and lower forced vital capacity (FVC) (136 mL; 95% CI: 85-187 mL). Dp-ucMGP was not associated with the FEV1/FVC ratio (0.0 percentage points higher than the expected value; 95% CI: -1.0-1.0). Furthermore, lower vitamin K status was associated with COPD (OR 2.24, 95% CI: 1.53-3.27), wheezing (OR 1.81, 95% CI: 1.44-2.28) and asthma (OR 1.44, 95% CI: 1.12-1.83).
Conclusion:
Lower vitamin K status was associated with lower ventilatory capacity (lower FEV1 and FVC), and with higher risk of self-reported asthma, COPD and wheezing. Vitamin K status was not associated with airflow obstruction (FEV1/FVC ratio).
Insights
Lower vitamin K status, indicated by higher dp-ucMGP levels, is linked to reduced lung function and increased risk of COPD, asthma, and wheezing. This highlights vitamin K
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology and Nutritional Science
- Biomarkers and Respiratory Health
Background:
- Matrix Gla protein (MGP) inhibits lung calcification.
- Plasma dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated MGP (dp-ucMGP) serves as a biomarker for vitamin K status.
- The relationship between vitamin K status and lung health requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the association between lower vitamin K status (higher dp-ucMGP) and lung function.
- To investigate the link between vitamin K status and the prevalence of lung diseases and symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A general population sample of 4092 individuals (aged 24-77 years) was studied.
- Health examinations included spirometry and measurement of plasma dp-ucMGP.
- Regression models adjusted for age, sex, and height were used to analyze associations.
Main Results:
- Lower vitamin K status was associated with reduced forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC).
- Higher dp-ucMGP levels were linked to increased odds of COPD, asthma, and wheezing.
- No significant association was found between vitamin K status and the FEV1/FVC ratio (airflow obstruction).
Conclusions:
- Reduced vitamin K status is associated with diminished lung ventilatory capacity.
- Lower vitamin K status correlates with a higher risk of self-reported asthma, COPD, and wheezing.
- Vitamin K status does not appear to be associated with airflow obstruction.
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