# MenaQ7 (Menaquinone-7)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/menaq7
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Vitamin
**Also Known As:** Menaquinone-7, MK-7, Vitamin K2 MK-7, 2-methyl-3-[(2E,6E,10E,14E,18E,22E)-3,7,11,15,19,23-hexamethyltetracosa-2,6,10,14,18,22-hexaen-1-yl]-1,4-naphthoquinone, All-trans menaquinone-7, Long-chain vitamin K2, K2-7

## Overview

MenaQ7 is a patented, highly bioavailable form of menaquinone-7 (MK-7), the long-chain subtype of vitamin K2 derived from natto fermentation. It activates vitamin K-dependent proteins such as osteocalcin and Matrix Gla Protein (MGP) by enabling gamma-carboxylation, a process essential for directing calcium into bone and away from arterial walls.

## Health Benefits

• Based on the research dossier, no specific clinical health benefits can be cited as no human clinical trials were found in the provided sources • The mechanism suggests potential vitamin K-dependent protein activation, but clinical evidence is absent • No meta-analyses or RCTs were available in the research to support specific health claims • The lipophilic nature enables blood-brain barrier crossing, but clinical significance remains unestablished • Further clinical research is needed to establish evidence-based health benefits

## Mechanism of Action

MenaQ7 (menaquinone-7) functions as a cofactor for the enzyme gamma-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX), which carboxylates glutamate residues on vitamin K-dependent proteins including osteocalcin, Matrix Gla Protein (MGP), and protein S. Carboxylated osteocalcin binds hydroxyapatite to strengthen bone matrix, while carboxylated MGP inhibits vascular calcification by chelating calcium ions and blocking bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling in arterial smooth muscle cells. MenaQ7's long side chain (seven isoprene units) confers an extended plasma half-life of approximately 72 hours compared to menaquinone-4 (MK-4), enabling sustained tissue saturation at lower doses.

## Clinical Summary

Human clinical data specifically on the MenaQ7 branded ingredient is limited, though the broader MK-7 literature provides relevant context. A 3-year RCT by Knapen et al. (2013, n=244 postmenopausal women) found that 180 mcg/day MK-7 significantly improved vertebral [bone mineral density](/ingredients/condition/bone-health) and bone strength indices versus placebo. A separate study by Geleijnse et al. and the Rotterdam cohort observed inverse associations between dietary MK-7 intake and [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) calcification risk, though these were observational in design. Evidence for arterial stiffness reduction using MenaQ7 at 180 mcg/day over 3 years (VitaK-CAC trial) showed promising reductions in dp-ucMGP (inactive MGP), a biomarker of vascular K2 status, but larger confirmatory RCTs are needed to establish definitive cardiovascular endpoints.

## Nutritional Profile

MenaQ7 (Menaquinone-7) is a highly purified, synthetic/fermentation-derived form of Vitamin K2 (MK-7), not a whole food ingredient. Active compound: Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) — typically standardized to 100–200 mcg per serving in supplement formulations. It contains no macronutrients (zero protein, carbohydrates, or fiber), no significant mineral content, and negligible caloric value. As a fat-soluble vitamin (lipophilic), MenaQ7 requires dietary fat for intestinal absorption via chylomicron incorporation into lymphatic transport. Bioavailability of MK-7 is notably superior to MK-4 and Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) due to its longer half-life in serum (estimated 72 hours vs. 1–2 hours for K1), enabling more sustained tissue distribution. The long geranylgeranyl side chain (7 isoprene units) is responsible for its lipophilicity, enhanced plasma retention, and documented ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. MenaQ7 is typically derived from fermentation of Bacillus subtilis natto (natto-free extract form) and is often formulated in an oil-based carrier (e.g., MCT oil or olive oil) to enhance absorption. No fiber, no amino acids, no minerals are present as active components.

## Dosage & Preparation

The search results do not specify clinically studied dosage ranges for MenaQ7 or standardization protocols used in human studies. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

MenaQ7 at doses up to 360 mcg/day has been well tolerated in clinical studies, with no serious adverse events reported in trials lasting up to 3 years. The most critical drug interaction is with vitamin K antagonist anticoagulants such as warfarin (coumadin); MK-7's prolonged half-life can meaningfully antagonize warfarin's anticoagulant effect, and patients on warfarin must avoid supplementation without physician supervision. MenaQ7 may also interact with broad-spectrum antibiotics, which reduce gut bacteria capable of producing endogenous vitamin K2, potentially altering supplementation needs. Pregnancy and lactation safety has not been established through dedicated trials; while dietary vitamin K2 is considered safe, supplemental MenaQ7 doses should be used cautiously and only under medical guidance during pregnancy.

## Scientific Research

The search results provided no specific human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses with PubMed PMIDs for MenaQ7. The available sources focus on chemical structure and synthesis pathways rather than clinical efficacy data.

## Historical & Cultural Context

The search results contain no information about historical or traditional use of menaquinone-7. MenaQ7 is a modern branded ingredient produced through contemporary biotechnology rather than a traditionally used substance.

## Synergistic Combinations

Insufficient research data to recommend synergistic combinations

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the difference between MenaQ7 and regular vitamin K2?

MenaQ7 is a standardized, patented form of menaquinone-7 (MK-7) produced via Bacillus subtilis natto fermentation, distinguished by verified purity and a consistent all-trans isomer configuration. Generic vitamin K2 supplements may contain variable ratios of active all-trans MK-7 and less bioactive cis-isomers, whereas MenaQ7 specifies at least 99% all-trans content, which is the biologically active form recognized by gamma-glutamyl carboxylase. This standardization supports more predictable dosing and clinical outcomes compared to non-patented MK-7 sources.

### How much MenaQ7 should I take per day?

Most clinical studies on MenaQ7 and MK-7 have used doses of 90 mcg to 360 mcg per day, with 180 mcg/day being the most commonly studied dose for bone and vascular outcomes. The EU adequate intake for vitamin K2 has not been separately established from vitamin K1, but supplement labels commonly recommend 90–200 mcg of MK-7 daily. Because MK-7 has a plasma half-life of roughly 72 hours, even once-daily dosing maintains stable blood levels, and doses above 360 mcg have not demonstrated additional benefit in current literature.

### Can MenaQ7 interfere with blood thinners like warfarin?

Yes — MenaQ7, as a long-chain MK-7, has a significantly longer half-life (approximately 72 hours) than MK-4 or vitamin K1, meaning it exerts a sustained antagonistic effect on warfarin's anticoagulant mechanism by competing at the vitamin K epoxide reductase (VKOR) enzyme. Even low supplemental doses of MK-7 (as little as 50 mcg/day) have been shown to reduce INR values in patients stabilized on warfarin. Anyone taking warfarin, rivaroxaban, or other anticoagulants should not begin MenaQ7 supplementation without consulting their prescribing physician and monitoring INR closely.

### Does MenaQ7 help with bone density?

Clinical evidence from MK-7 trials, including a 3-year double-blind RCT by Knapen et al. (2013) involving 244 postmenopausal women taking 180 mcg/day, showed significant improvements in lumbar spine bone mineral density and maintenance of femoral neck bone strength compared to placebo. MenaQ7 supports bone health by activating osteocalcin via gamma-carboxylation, enabling it to bind calcium within the hydroxyapatite matrix of bone. While results are promising, most trials are conducted in postmenopausal women, and evidence across other populations remains less robust.

### Is MenaQ7 the same as MK-7 or MK-4?

MenaQ7 is specifically a branded form of MK-7 (menaquinone-7), not MK-4 (menaquinone-4). The key structural difference is the length of the isoprenoid side chain: MK-7 has seven units versus MK-4's four, giving MK-7 greater lipophilicity, longer plasma half-life (~72 hours vs. ~1-2 hours for MK-4), and broader tissue distribution including bone and vasculature. MK-4 is typically used at much higher pharmacological doses (45 mg/day in Japanese osteoporosis trials) to compensate for its rapid clearance, while MenaQ7 achieves biologically relevant effects at microgram-level doses.

### What is the source of MenaQ7 and how is it produced?

MenaQ7 is a branded form of menaquinone-7 (MK-7) derived from fermentation of the bacterium Bacillus subtilis natto, which naturally produces vitamin K2. This fermentation-based production method allows for consistent, high-purity MK-7 suitable for supplement manufacturing. The ingredient is trademarked by NattoPharma and is widely recognized for its natural fermentation origin compared to synthetic vitamin K2 alternatives.

### How long does MenaQ7 stay in your body after supplementation?

MenaQ7 has a relatively long half-life compared to other vitamin K forms, allowing it to accumulate in tissues over time with consistent supplementation. The lipophilic (fat-soluble) nature of MenaQ7 enables it to be stored in body tissues and distributed systemically, including across the blood-brain barrier. This extended retention profile is one reason MenaQ7 may require less frequent dosing than shorter-acting vitamin K compounds.

### Is MenaQ7 suitable for vegans and vegetarians?

MenaQ7 derived from Bacillus subtilis natto fermentation is suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets, as it is produced through bacterial fermentation rather than animal sources. This makes it a preferred vitamin K2 option for plant-based individuals who may lack adequate K2 intake from traditional food sources like cheese and fermented products. Always verify the supplement's full formulation, as other ingredients or capsule materials may vary.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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