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Multiple Choice
Two well-known anticoagulants, dicumarol & warfarin, inhibit function of which of the following vitamins? A) Vitamin K B) Vitamin E. C) Vitamin C. D) Vitamin A. E) Vitamin B.
A
Vitamin K
B
Vitamin E.
C
Vitamin C.
D
Vitamin A.
E
Vitamin B.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the function of anticoagulants: Anticoagulants are substances that prevent blood clotting. They are often used to treat or prevent conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
Understand the role of Vitamin K: Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of certain proteins required for blood coagulation. It acts as a cofactor for the enzyme that catalyzes the carboxylation of glutamic acid residues on these proteins, which is necessary for their activity.
Recognize the mechanism of action of dicumarol and warfarin: Both dicumarol and warfarin function by inhibiting the enzyme vitamin K epoxide reductase. This enzyme is responsible for recycling vitamin K to its active form, which is necessary for the synthesis of clotting factors.
Connect the inhibition of vitamin K recycling to anticoagulant effects: By inhibiting vitamin K epoxide reductase, dicumarol and warfarin reduce the levels of active vitamin K, leading to decreased synthesis of clotting factors and thus, anticoagulation.
Conclude that the vitamin inhibited by dicumarol and warfarin is Vitamin K, as their anticoagulant effect is directly related to the inhibition of vitamin K recycling and function.