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Vitamin K Overview
Vitamin K refers to a group of structurally similar, fat-soluble vitamins that play essential roles in the human body. The name “Vitamin K” is derived from the German word Koagulationsvitamin, reflecting its discovery and primary function in blood coagulation (clotting). It exists in multiple forms, which are broadly categorized into two main groups: Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and Vitamin K2 (menaquinones).
Types and Chemistry
| Type | Chemical Name | CAS Number | Molecular Formula | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin K1 | Phylloquinone (or Phytonadione) | 84-80-0 | C₃₁H₄₆O₂ | Contains a phytyl side chain (one isoprenoid unit); primarily found in green plants. |
| Vitamin K2 | Menaquinones (MK-4, MK-7) | MK-4: 863-61-6; MK-7: 2124-57-4 | MK-4: C₃₁H₄₀O₂; Mk-7: C₄₆H₆₄O₂ | Contains a polyisoprenyl side chain with multiple repeating units; synthesized by bacteria. |
All forms of Vitamin K share a common 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone ring structure (the menadione nucleus), which is responsible for their biological activity. The difference lies in the side chain at the C-3 position.
RDHealthIngredients Bulk Supply Vitamin K
| Product Name | Source | Specification | Appearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin K1 | Synthetisis | Phylloquinone 1%,5% HPLC CWD | Yellow Free Flowing beadiest, CWD |
| Vitamin K2 MK-4 | Synthetisis | 0.2%, 1%, 1.3% HPLC DCP, βCP | Yellow Fine Powder |
| Vitamin K2 MK-7 | Synthetics; Fermented | 0.2%, 1%, 1.3% HPLC CWD | Yellow Free Flowing beadiest, CWD |
Physiological Functions and Health Benefits
- Blood Coagulation (Classic Function)
- Vitamin K serves as a crucial cofactor for the enzyme γ-glutamyl carboxylase, which converts specific glutamic acid (Glu) residues to γ-carboxyglutamic acid (Gla) residues.
- This post-translational modification is essential for the biological activity of several coagulation proteins, including prothrombin (Factor II) and Factors VII, IX, and X. Without adequate Vitamin K, the blood clotting cascade is impaired, leading to increased bleeding risk.
- Bone Health and Metabolism
- Vitamin K is required for the carboxylation of osteocalcin, a protein produced by osteoblasts that plays a key role in bone mineralization and calcium binding.
- Adequate Vitamin K status is associated with improved bone mineral density and a reduced risk of fractures, particularly in postmenopausal women.
- Cardiovascular Health
- Another important Gla-protein is Matrix Gla-Protein (MGP), which is a potent inhibitor of vascular calcification.
- Vitamin K-dependent activation of MGP helps prevent the deposition of calcium in arterial walls, thereby reducing the risk of coronary artery disease and arterial stiffness.
- Emerging Research
- Recent studies suggest Vitamin K may have additional health-promoting properties, including anti-inflammatory effects, regulation of testosterone production, modulation of bile acid synthesis genes, and potential beneficial roles in insulin sensitivity and neurodegenerative diseases.
Recommended Intake and Deficiency
- Daily Adequate Intake (AI) for adults is approximately 90–120 µg/day for Vitamin K (mainly K1).
- Deficiency is rare in healthy adults due to its widespread presence in the diet and endogenous synthesis by gut bacteria. However, it can occur in:
- Newborns (due to low placental transfer and sterile gut), which is why a Vitamin K injection is routinely administered at birth.
- Patients with chronic fat malabsorption syndromes (e.g., cystic fibrosis, celiac disease).
- Individuals taking long-term anticoagulant medications, which antagonize Vitamin K action.
Key Scientific References
- Dupuy, M., et al. (2025). Vitamin K: Metabolism, Genetic Influences, and Chronic Disease Outcomes. Food Science & Nutrition, *13*(6).
- Wang, H. Y., Nie, S. H., Hu, Y. C., & Yang, X. G. (2025). Advances in the Function, Absorption, and Metabolism of Vitamin K. Acta Nutrimenta Sinica, *47*(1), 92-98.
- Walther, B., et al. (2013). Menaquinones, Bacteria, and the Food Supply. Journal of Nutrition.
- Shea, M. K., et al. (2021). Vitamin K and Bone Health. Current Osteoporosis Reports.