Biochemistry

factor. In addition, vitamin К normalizes the motor function of the gastrointestinal tract. Vikasol Phylloquinone deficiency. An insufficient amount of vitamin К in fhe diet of humans and animals leads to spontaneous bleeding (nosebleeds, hemorrhages), which is associated with a violation of blood coagulation. It is relatively rare and is usually caused either by impaired absorption of vitamin K, or by a decrease in prothrombin-forming liver function. Vitamin К deficiency can also develop with malnutrition or prolonged use of antibiotics that suppress intestinal microflora that synthesize this vitamin. Daily intake of vitamin К is 0.2-0.3 mg for adults. Sources. Leafy vegetables, cauliflower and white cabbage, tomatoes, potatoes, as well as liver, eggs are a rich source of naftahinone. 12.4. VITAMIN-LIKE COMPOUNDS This group includes a variety of compounds with vitamin properties; they are partially synthesized in the body and sometimes are part of the tissues. Choline (Vitamin В 4 ). This substance was first isolated from bile in 1892, and therefore the vitamin got its name (from the Greek. Cholos - bile). Structure and physicochemical properties. The structure of choline is an aminoethyl alcohol containing three methyl groups at a nitrogen atom. CH 3 HO-CH 2 -CH 2 — ьЯсНз CH 3 Due to the fact that a hydroxyl group at the nitrogen atom is in the ionized state, choline is a strong base. Under ordinary conditions, it is a colorless syrupy liquid that is highly soluble in water and alcohol. 269