Current Projects

Characterize and quantify multiple forms of vitamin K in food samples representative of the US food supply.
To develop stable isotope techniques using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS) to measure vitamin K absorption and transport.
To relate the dietary intakes of various forms of vitamin K to physiological outcomes, such as bone health, in the Framingham Heart Study.
To determine the impact of vitamin K supplementation, in an amount that is expected to be nutritionally optimal and safe, on bone, joint and vascular health in elderly men and women.
To conduct a bioavailability study in younger and older men and women to examine the role of age, lipid profile and current vitamin K status on absorption and relative bioavailability of vitamin K from a vegetable.
To examine the roles of apolipoprotein E, vitamin K epoxide reductase, and vitamin K-dependent gamma carboxylase genotypes in modulating vitamin K status among participants in a vitamin K supplementation trial.
To determine the impact of vitamin K supplementation on measures of inflammation, as they relate to bone and vascular health.

For more information about the Vitamin K Laboratory, please visit the USDA, Agricultural Research Service.

Special K
Yet one more reason to pile on those leafy greens

Hip Fractures and Leafy Vegetables
Vitamin K, found in the likes of spinach and kale, is crucial to maintaining good bone health

Volunteer for a research study:
Vitamin K lab absorption study