Title of project

Unlocking the potential of Vitamin K: A comprehensive approach to prevent type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Emerging evidence suggests that vitamin K may play a crucial role in preventing type 2 diabetes (T2D), but significant gaps remain in our understanding. Despite its potential, we currently lack clarity on how different forms of vitamin K—phylloquinone (vitamin K1) and menaquinones (vitamin K2)—impact T2D risk. Specifically, the distinct roles of various forms of menaquinones in T2D prevention are not well-defined, especially given their presence in foods linked to higher T2D risk. Moreover, the effects of vitamin K intake from natural foods versus supplements, and the influence of genetic factors on these effects, are poorly understood. The project consists of four specific aims to address these gaps. The first aim involves using large-scale epidemiological studies to investigate the association between updated phylloquinone and menaquinone intakes and, biomarkers of inflammation, T2D biomarkers, and T2D incidence. The second aim focuses on investigating the differential association between selfreported use of dietary versus supplement-based vitamin K intake and T2D risk. The third aim will explore gene-nutrient interactions between vitamin K intake and T2D risk and identify high-risk subpopulations that may benefit most from increased vitamin K intakes. The fourth aim involves learning about patient and public involvement strategies to enhance vitamin K intake. This postdoctoral research will provide critical insights that could inform dietary guidelines and public health strategies for T2D prevention.