Grant: Project Grant

Vitamin K is an essential micronutrient known to regulate the activity of proteins implicated in blood coagulation and vascular calcification. Clinical observations in humans suggested that partial vitamin K deficiency might be linked to the development of osteoporosis and to increased fracture risk. In line with these findings, we are interested in uncovering this prospective function of vitamin K in bone function. Our approach includes the use of genetically modified mouse models in which one of the component of the vitamin K cycle is inactivated in specific bone cells. We will also use cell culture models to understand how vitamin K and vitamin K-dependent proteins influence bone cell differentiation and function. Altogether, these studies will allow us to understand how vitamin K is implicated in the control of bone mass and how partial vitamin K deficiency contributes to the development of osteoporosis. Ultimately, the discoveries that will emerged from these studies will eventually result in a better understanding of the physiological regulation of bone turnover and potentially to new therapeutic or clinical approaches for bone diseases.