Canadian researchers have identified how vitamin K helps prevent diabetes, a finding that could lead to new therapeutic applications for a disease that affects one in 11 people worldwide and has no cure.
Several studies have previously suggested a link between a reduced intake of vitamin K and an increased risk of diabetes. However, the biological mechanisms by which vitamin K protects against diabetes remained a mystery until now.
The team from the Universite de Montreal (UdeM) found a potentially protective role of vitamin K and gamma-carboxylation in beta cells.
Vitamin K is a micronutrient known for its role in blood clotting, in particular in gamma-carboxylation -- an enzymatic reaction essential to the process.
The study, published in the journal Cell Reports, determined that the enzymes involved in gamma-carboxylation and therefore in the use of vitamin K were present in large quantities in pancreatic beta cells, the very cells that produce the precious insulin that controls blood sugar levels.
"Diabetes is known to be caused by a reduction in the number of beta cells or by their inability to produce enough insulin, hence our keen interest in this novel finding," said Mathieu Ferron, associate research professor of medicine at UdeM.
"We were able to identify a new gamma-carboxylated protein called ERGP," added Julie Lacombe, who conducted the work in Ferron's laboratory.
"Our study shows that this protein plays an important role in maintaining physiological levels of calcium in beta cells in order to prevent a disturbance of insulin secretion. Finally, we showed that vitamin K through gamma-carboxylation is essential for ERGP to perform its role."
This is the first time in 15 years that a novel vitamin K-dependent protein has been identified, opening a new field of research in this area.
Fruit is great for weight loss because it is low calorie, high fibre, and water content. Fruit has vitamins and minerals that the body needs in abundance. Here is a list of mistakes one makes when eating fruit.
Vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis. As we know, Collagen is an integral structural component of connective tissue, blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, gums, skin, teeth, and bones. It helps in maintaining the skin natural elasticity to render a younger-looking skin and reduce skin-sagging.
Hailed as the second brain, the gut has a huge impact on overall health and well-being; hence, gut health cannot be neglected. Now that you have understood the importance of the all-mighty gut, below are a few ways to improve your gut health and maintain a healthy digestive tract.
In order to keep up with our routine on days when we lack motivation, we must engage in enjoyable or simple activities. Here, there are a few straightforward things that can be done.
Addressing visual impairment is a major health issue across the globe and there are indications that daily habits can affect a person's eyesight and develop into further complications if not addressed in time.
The good news is that there are things you can do to control your blood sugar level. Eating healthy foods, getting regular exercise, and taking medication (if prescribed by your doctor) can all help to keep your blood sugar levels in check.
