What is MK-7 (Vitamin K2-7)?
MK-7, or menaquinone-7, is a long-chain form of Vitamin K2, a fat-soluble nutrient essential for calcium regulation in the body. Unlike Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone), which is primarily involved in blood clotting, MK-7 plays a broader role in bone health, cardiovascular protection, inflammation reduction, and even neurological and metabolic functions.
MK-7 is highly bioavailable and can cross the blood-brain barrier, making it uniquely effective in supporting systemic health.
Compounds and Sources of MK-7
All K2 vitamins share a core structure called menadione (2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone) but differ in the length and saturation of their isoprenoid side chains. MK-7 has seven isoprene units, which provides it with a longer half-life and enhanced tissue distribution compared to other forms.
Main dietary sources of MK-7:
- Natto (a fermented soybean dish from Japan)
- Fermented cheeses
- Meat and dairy products
- Intestinal microflora synthesis (limited absorption)
However, natural dietary intake is often inadequate worldwide, except in regions like Japan where natto is regularly consumed.
Why Do We Need MK-7?
Vitamin K2-7 activates Vitamin K-dependent proteins (VKDPs) by enabling the γ-carboxylation of glutamate (Glu) residues into γ-carboxyglutamate (Gla). This modification is essential for:
- Binding calcium in the blood
- Preventing vascular calcification
- Promoting bone mineralization
Without sufficient MK-7, inactive VKDPs lead to issues like osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, and increased fracture risk.
Uses and Health Benefits of MK-7
1. Bone Health and Osteoporosis Prevention
MK-7 is a crucial nutrient in preventing osteoporosis by:
- Activating osteocalcin, a protein that helps bind calcium to bones
- Inhibiting RANKL, thus reducing osteoclast-mediated bone resorption
- Enhancing gene expression of osteoprotegerin, BMP2, and Tenascin C involved in bone remodeling
Studies show that Japanese women (high MK-7 intake) have significantly lower fracture rates compared to Western populations.
2. Cardiovascular Protection
MK-7 helps prevent vascular calcification by:
- Activating Matrix Gla Protein (MGP), which binds free calcium and prevents it from depositing in arteries
- Downregulating bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) that drives calcification
- Enhancing Gas6 protein signaling, which prevents vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis
3. Anticancer Potential
MK-7 has demonstrated ability to:
- Induce apoptosis and autophagy in cancer cells
- Arrest cancer cell growth via inhibition of NF-κB and cyclin D1
- Reduce hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression through the MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT pathways
4. Diabetes Management
MK-7 enhances insulin sensitivity by:
- Regulating osteocalcin metabolism
- Increasing adiponectin expression
- Suppressing inflammatory markers like IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α
- Activating AMPK and PPAR-α pathways, improving glucose and fat metabolism
5. Neuroprotection and Peripheral Neuropathy
MK-7 supports the nervous system by:
- Repairing the myelin sheath
- Activating Gas6 via γ-carboxylation, promoting nerve regeneration
- Suppressing proinflammatory cytokines that cause nerve damage
6. Alzheimer’s Disease
MK-7 shows potential to:
- Inhibit β-amyloid toxicity
- Reduce oxidative stress and apoptosis
- Activate the PI3K/AKT/Bad signaling pathway for neuronal protection
Clinical Research & Supplementation
Studies confirm MK-7’s safety and efficacy:
- Half-life: ~68 hours (longer than other K forms)
- Effective at doses of 90–180 μg/day
- Improves osteocalcin carboxylation and reduces vascular calcification markers
Conclusion
MK-7 is more than just a vitamin—it's a nutraceutical powerhouse. From strengthening bones and protecting your heart to managing blood sugar and supporting brain health, MK-7 is vital for whole-body wellness.
Considering its low presence in most diets, MK-7 supplementation could play a crucial role in preventive health strategies worldwide.
References
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Jadhav N, Ajgaonkar S, Saha P, et al. (2022). Molecular Pathways and Roles for Vitamin K2-7 as a Health-Beneficial Nutraceutical: Challenges and Opportunities. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 13:896920. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.896920