JAMA Cardiology has published the VitaK-CAC study, a 2-year clinical trial using MenaQ7®, demonstrating that Vitamin K2 as MK-7 supplementation led to nearly one-third less progression of coronary artery calcification — a recognized predictor of cardiovascular disease — compared to placebo.
When Calcium Accumulates, Cardiovascular Risk Increases
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) develops when calcium deposits accumulate within the walls of the coronary arteries, causing them to stiffen and lose their natural elasticity. It is a key marker of atherosclerosis and a well-established cardiovascular risk factor. High CAC scores reflect advanced coronary artery disease. According to the study authors, this process stems from a disruption in the body’s calcification regulatory mechanisms — with matrix Gla protein (MGP), a vitamin K-dependent protein that actively prevents calcium from depositing in arterial walls, serving as one of its critical natural inhibitors.
MenaQ7®, Once Again the Researchers’ Choice
The trial included 180 patients with coronary artery disease, randomly assigned to receive either 360 mcg of Vitamin K2 MK-7 daily or a placebo over 24 months. Calcification progression was assessed using two complementary imaging methods: the Agatston score — the gold-standard tool for quantifying coronary calcium deposits — and calcium mass, which offers a more precise measurement of the calcification process itself. The study also tracked dp-ucMGP levels, a validated biomarker reflecting the body’s capacity to inhibit vascular calcification through MGP activation.
Groundbreaking Results in Coronary Artery Calcification
Participants in the Vitamin K2 MK-7 group showed approximately 29% lower progression in Agatston score and around 42% less progression in calcium mass compared to placebo. The authors stated that since both the Agatston and calcium mass scores pointed in the same direction, they are confident that Vitamin K2 MK-7 can slow coronary calcification. Supplementation also reduced dp-ucMGP levels, further supporting a beneficial effect on this critical calcification biomarker.
These findings add to a significant and growing body of evidence around MenaQ7®: “Almost two decades of clinical research on MenaQ7® has demonstrated its significant cardiovascular benefits, including maintaining arterial elasticity, supporting normative blood pressure, and now supporting healthy calcium balance in coronary arteries,” says Kimmo Makinen, our Head of Scientific Affairs at Gnosis by Lesaffre.