In the context of skeletal structure, Vitamin K acts as a functional "gatekeeper" for what specific process?
Answer
Calcium utilization within the bone matrix
Vitamin K plays a crucial, enabling role in bone health beyond general mineral absorption. It functions specifically as the 'gatekeeper' for calcium utilization within the bone matrix. This means that sufficient intake of Vitamin K is required for the synthesis of certain proteins that direct and manage calcium deposition and integration into the bone structure. Without adequate Vitamin K, the efficiency with which consumed calcium contributes to maintaining bone density can be negatively affected.

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