A deficiency of which vitamin can lead to the breakdown of red blood cells known as hemolysis?

Vitamin E plays a crucial role in protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage, particularly in red blood cells. When there is a deficiency in vitamin E, the antioxidant defenses of the cells are weakened, making them more susceptible to oxidative stress. This can lead to the breakdown of red blood cells, a condition known as hemolysis.

Oxidative stress results in damage to the lipid membranes of the red blood cells, making them fragile and more likely to rupture. In populations with limited dietary intake of vitamin E, or in conditions that affect vitamin absorption, this vulnerability can be significant, leading to increased hemolysis and subsequent anemia.

In contrast, the other vitamins listed do not have the same direct relationship with red blood cell integrity and hemolysis. Vitamin D is primarily involved in calcium absorption and bone health, Vitamin A is essential for vision and immune function, and Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting processes rather than directly affecting red blood cell membrane stability. This context underscores the importance of vitamin E in maintaining the health of red blood cells.