Product Description
Reference Standards &Impurity
AI Product Description
*The following content is generated by AI and is for reference only.
Vitamin K2, also known as menaquinone, is a vital fat-soluble vitamin distinct from its counterpart, Vitamin K1. While K1 primarily supports blood clotting in the liver, K2 plays a pivotal role in directing calcium to the bones and teeth while preventing its accumulation in soft tissues like arteries. This unique biological function makes it essential for maintaining skeletal health and cardiovascular integrity. Chemically, Vitamin K2 exists in several forms, collectively termed menaquinones (MK-n), where "n" denotes the number of isoprenoid side chains. The most common bioactive forms are MK-4 and MK-7. MK-4 has a shorter chain length and is found in animal products, whereas MK-7, derived from fermented foods like natto, features a longer side chain that grants it superior stability and a significantly longer half-life in the human bloodstream.
The molecular formula varies slightly depending on the specific menaquinone variant. For instance, Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) possesses the chemical formula C46H64O2. Its corresponding CAS number is 6533-33-9. Other variants have different formulas; for example, MK-4 is C35H48O2 with CAS 847-00-7. Despite these structural differences, they share the same core naphthoquinone structure responsible for their coagulation and regulatory activities.
In terms of applications, Vitamin K2 is widely utilized in dietary supplements aimed at improving bone density and reducing fracture risks, particularly in postmenopausal women and the elderly. Beyond orthopedics, emerging research highlights its potential in cardiovascular protection by inhibiting vascular calcification, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease. It is increasingly included in formulations targeting metabolic health and arterial elasticity. Furthermore, K2 acts synergistically with Vitamin D3 and calcium; while D3 enhances calcium absorption from the gut, K2 ensures this mineral is deposited correctly into the bone matrix rather than the arteries. Natural sources include fermented soybeans, cheese, and egg yolks, though supplementation remains a popular strategy for those with dietary restrictions or specific health goals. As scientific understanding deepens, the demand for high-quality, bioavailable Vitamin K2 continues to grow across the global health industry.