Which vitamin K-dependent factor is involved in the common pathway of coagulation?

Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of certain clotting factors, specifically Factor II (Prothrombin), Factor VII, Factor IX, and Factor X. Among these, Factor II is a key player in the common pathway of coagulation, which is where intrinsic and extrinsic pathways converge. Once activated, prothrombin (Factor II) is converted into thrombin, which then plays a central role in converting fibrinogen (Factor I) into fibrin, facilitating the formation of a stable blood clot. Understanding the role of Vitamin K in the synthesis of these factors is crucial in recognizing the mechanisms of coagulation and the importance of Factor II in the clotting cascade.