Pregnane X Receptor Signaling Pathway and Vitamin K: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Relevance in Human Health

Cells. 2024 Apr 14;13(8):681. doi: 10.3390/cells13080681.

Abstract

This review explores the likely clinical impact of Pregnane X Receptor (PXR) activation by vitamin K on human health. PXR, initially recognized as a master regulator of xenobiotic metabolism in liver, emerges as a key regulator influencing intestinal homeostasis, inflammation, oxidative stress, and autophagy. The activation of PXR by vitamin K highlights its role as a potent endogenous and local agonist with diverse clinical implications. Recent research suggests that the vitamin K-mediated activation of PXR highlights this vitamin's potential in addressing pathophysiological conditions by promoting hepatic detoxification, fortifying gut barrier integrity, and controlling pro-inflammatory and apoptotic pathways. PXR activation by vitamin K provides an intricate association with cancer cell survival, particularly in colorectal and liver cancers, to provide new insights into potential novel therapeutic strategies. Understanding the clinical implications of PXR activation by vitamin K bridges molecular mechanisms with health outcomes, further offering personalized therapeutic approaches for complex diseases.

Keywords: PXR activation; Pregnane X Receptor; autophagy; bone health; cancer; clinical implications; colorectal cancer; gut health; inflammation; inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); liver health; oxidative stress; precision medicine; therapeutic interventions; vitamin K2; xenobiotic metabolism.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Relevance
  • Health
  • Humans
  • Pregnane X Receptor* / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction*
  • Vitamin K* / metabolism

Substances

  • Pregnane X Receptor
  • Vitamin K