Vitamin K1 K2 K3

 

Here is an overview of the chemical structures and uses of Vitamin K1, K2, and K3:

1. Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone)

• Chemical Structure:
  Vitamin K1 consists of a 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone ring (naphthoquinone core structure) with a phytyl side chain at position 3.

  • Molecular formula: C31H46O2
  • Structure:
    
    
    
    
    
  • Key Features: Long phytyl chain attached to the naphthoquinone ring.

• Uses:

  • Essential for blood clotting as it activates clotting factors.
  • Used to prevent bleeding problems in patients with Vitamin K deficiency.
  • Found in green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli.

2. Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone)

• Chemical Structure:
  Vitamin K2 has the same naphthoquinone core as K1 but differs in its side chains, which vary in length and degree of unsaturation depending on the subtype (MK-4 to MK-13). It typically contains a prenylated side chain.

  • Molecular formula: C31H40O2 (for MK-4)
  • Structure:
    
    
    
    
    
  • Key Features: Varying side chain length depending on the subtype (e.g., MK-4, MK-7).

• Uses:

  • Important for bone health as it helps in the regulation of calcium.
  • Supports cardiovascular health by preventing arterial calcification.
  • Found in fermented foods like natto, and cheese, and is also synthesized by gut bacteria.

3. Vitamin K3 (Menadione)

• Chemical Structure:
  Vitamin K3 is a synthetic form of Vitamin K. It has a simpler structure compared to K1 and K2.

  • Molecular formula: C11H8O2
  • Structure:
    
    
    
    
    
  • Key Features: Lacks the side chain that K1 and K2 have.

• Uses:

  • Primarily used as a synthetic alternative in animal feeds.
  • In humans, it can act as a precursor to Vitamin K2 through conversion in the liver, though its use is not common due to potential toxicity concerns.

Summary of Uses:

• Vitamin K1: Blood clotting, dietary supplements, and leafy green vegetables.
• Vitamin K2: Bone and cardiovascular health, especially from fermented foods.
• Vitamin K3: Mainly used in animal nutrition; synthetic form with limited human use due to toxicity.

Each vitamin K type plays an important role in supporting different physiological processes, especially those related to coagulation and bone health.