Vitamin K2 and Cancer

Vitamin K2: A Powerful Ally in Cancer Prevention and Treatment

Researched and written by Keith Bishop, Clinical Nutritionist, Cancer Coach, and Retired Pharmacist

Vitamin K2 has been gaining attention for its potential role in cancer prevention and treatment. Research suggests that it may help regulate cell growth, induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), and enhance the effectiveness of conventional cancer therapies. In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind Vitamin K2’s anti-cancer properties, its other health benefits, food and supplement sources, potential side effects, and interactions with cancer treatments.

What is Vitamin K2?

Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in calcium metabolism, cardiovascular health, and bone strength. It exists in several forms, including menaquinone-4 (MK-4) and menaquinone-7 (MK-7), which are the most studied for their health benefits.

MK-4 and MK-7 are both forms of Vitamin K2, but they differ in their biological activity, absorption, and health benefits. MK-4 is found in animal-based foods, such as liver and egg yolks, and has a shorter half-life, meaning it needs to be taken more frequently to maintain optimal levels. It is recognized for its role in maintaining bone health and supporting brain function. MK-7, on the other hand, is derived from fermented foods like natto and has a much longer half-life, allowing for sustained benefits with lower doses. MK-7 is particularly effective in cardiovascular health, as it helps prevent arterial calcification and supports bone strength. [i] [ii]

Anti-Cancer Actions of Vitamin K2

Research indicates that Vitamin K2 may have several mechanisms that contribute to its anti-cancer effects:

• Induces Apoptosis: Vitamin K2 has been shown to trigger apoptosis and autophagy in cancer cells, helping to eliminate malignant cells.[iii]
• Inhibits Tumor Growth: Studies suggest that Vitamin K2 can suppress tumor proliferation in various cancers by binding to specific enzymes involved in cancer cell growth.[iv] Cancers studied include leukemia[v], liver cancer[vi], stomach gastric cancer[vii], lung cancer[viii], breast cancer[ix], ovarian cancer[x], brain cancer[xi], glioblastoma[xii], pancreatic cancer[xiii], bone cancer[xiv], myeloma and lymphoma[xv], colon cancer[xvi], triple-negative breast cancer[xvii], colorectal cancer[xviii], and prostate cancer[xix].
• Enhances Chemotherapy: Some research indicates that Vitamin K2 may improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs by sensitizing cancer cells to treatment. Vitamin K analogs, including vitamin K2, when combined with other chemotherapeutic drugs, have demonstrated a safe, cost-effective, and efficient method for overcoming drug resistance and improving the outcomes of prevailing chemotherapy.[xx] The following chemotherapy drugs with vitamin K2 have thus far been studied:
• Venetoclax (Venclexta)[xxi]
• Sorafenib (Nexavar)[xxii] 
• These were the only chemotherapy studies at the time of publication. We need more studies!

• Immune Therapy: At the time of publication, Vitamin K2 has not been evaluated for potential impact on cancer immunotherapy treatment. We need more studies!
• Radiation Therapy:
• Vitamin K2 reduces the growth of radioresistant cancer cells.[xxiii]
• Vitamin K2 decreases the loss in bone mineral density in bones exposed to cancer radiation treatments.[xxiv]
• We need more studies!
• Regulates Cell Cycle: Vitamin K2 helps control cell division, preventing uncontrolled growth that leads to tumor formation.[xxv]
• Decreases Cancer Cell Stemness: Vitamin K2 reduces the survival of cancer stem cells.[xxvi]
• Potentiates Hyperthermia: Vitamin K2 inhibits heat shock protein Hsp72 and sensitizes cancer cells to heat-shock cell death.[xxvii]

Other Health Benefits of Vitamin K2

Beyond its potential anti-cancer properties, Vitamin K2 offers several other health benefits:

• Supports Bone Health: Helps direct calcium to bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and supporting bone growth.[xxviii]
• Improves Cardiovascular Health: Prevents arterial calcification, lowering the risk of heart disease.[xxix]
• Enhances Brain Function: May play a role in neuroprotection and cognitive health.[xxx]
• Regulates Blood Sugar: Some studies suggest Vitamin K2 may improve insulin sensitivity.[xxxi]

Food Sources of Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2 is found in various animal-based and fermented foods:

• Natto (fermented soybeans)
• Cheese (especially aged varieties)
• Egg yolks
• Liver (beef and chicken)
• Butter from grass-fed cows

Supplement Sources of Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2 supplements are available in different forms:

• MK-4: Found in animal-based supplements, with shorter-lasting effects in the body.
• MK-7: Derived from fermented sources like natto, offering longer-lasting effects in the body. This is my favorite form since it lasts longer in the body.

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Potential Side Effects and Drug Interactions

While Vitamin K2 is generally safe, some considerations include:

• Blood Thinners: Vitamin K2 can interfere with anticoagulant medications like warfarin. At the time of publication, vitamin K2 is not known to interact with other anticoagulants or aspirin.
• You can use https://www.drugs.com/drug_interactions.html to check your medication list for potential interactions.
• Excessive Calcium Absorption: High doses may lead to calcium metabolism imbalances.
• Digestive Issues: Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort.

Get answers to your questions about integrating supplements and repurposed medications and enhance your outcomes.

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Final Thoughts

Vitamin K2 is a promising nutrient with potential anti-cancer benefits. While more research is needed, its ability to regulate cell growth, enhance conventional treatments, and support overall health makes it a valuable addition to a cancer-fighting strategy. If you’re considering Vitamin K2 supplementation, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with your treatment plan.

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Reference Sources

 [i] https://naturalpractitionermag.com/vitamin-k1-k2-as-mk-7-and-mk-4-differences-and-applications/

[ii] https://thisvsthat.io/mk-4-vs-mk-7

[iii] Welsh J, Bak MJ, Narvaez CJ. New insights into vitamin K biology with relevance to cancer. Trends Mol Med. 2022;28(10):864-881. doi:10.1016/j.molmed.2022.07.002 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9509427/

[iv] Lu X, Ma P, Kong L, Wang X, Wang Y, Jiang L. Vitamin K2 Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Proliferation by Binding to 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase 4. Frontiers in Oncology. 2021;11. doi: https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2021.757603  

[v] Maniwa Y, Kasukabe T, Kumakura S. Vitamin K2 and cotylenin A synergistically induce monocytic differentiation and growth arrest along with the suppression of c-MYC expression and induction of cyclin G2 expression in human leukemia HL-60 cells. Int J Oncol. 2015;47(2):473-480. doi:10.3892/ijo.2015.3028 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4501641/

[vi] Lu X, Ma P, Kong L, Wang X, Wang Y, Jiang L. Vitamin K2 Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Proliferation by Binding to 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase 4. Front Oncol. 2021;11:757603. Published 2021 Nov 9. doi:10.3389/fonc.2021.757603  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8630649/

[vii] Tokita H, Tsuchida A, Miyazawa K, et al. Vitamin K2-induced antitumor effects via cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis in gastric cancer cell lines. Int J Mol Med. 2006;17(2):235-243. https://www.spandidos-publications.com/ijmm/17/2/235

[viii] Yokoyama T, Miyazawa K, Yoshida T, Ohyashiki K. Combination of vitamin K2 plus imatinib mesylate enhances induction of apoptosis in small cell lung cancer cell lines. Int J Oncol. 2005;26(1):33-40. https://www.spandidos-publications.com/ijo/26/1/33

[ix] Kiely M, Hodgins SJ, Merrigan BA, Tormey S, Kiely PA, O'Connor EM. Real-time cell analysis of the inhibitory effect of vitamin K2 on adhesion and proliferation of breast cancer cells. Nutr Res. 2015;35(8):736-743. doi:10.1016/j.nutres.2015.05.014 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0271531715001268?via%3Dihub

[x] Sibayama-Imazu T, Fujisawa Y, Masuda Y, et al. Induction of apoptosis in PA-1 ovarian cancer cells by vitamin K2 is associated with an increase in the level of TR3/Nur77 and its accumulation in mitochondria and nuclei. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 2008;134(7):803-812. doi:10.1007/s00432-007-0349-z https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00432-007-0349-z

[xi] Sun L, Yoshii Y, Miyagi K, Ishida A. No Shinkei Geka. 1999;27(2):119-125. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10065443/

[xii] Oztopçu P, Kabadere S, Mercangoz A, Uyar R. Comparison of vitamins K1, K2 and K3 effects on growth of rat glioma and human glioblastoma multiforme cells in vitro. Acta Neurol Belg. 2004;104(3):106-110. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15508263/

[xiii] Showalter SL, Wang Z, Costantino CL, et al. Naturally occurring K vitamins inhibit pancreatic cancer cell survival through a caspase-dependent pathway. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2010;25(4):738-744. doi:10.1111/j.1440-1746.2009.06085.x https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1440-1746.2009.06085.x

[xiv] Akedo Y, Hosoi T, Inoue S, et al. Vitamin K2 modulates proliferation and function of osteoblastic cells in vitro. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 1992;187(2):814-820. doi:10.1016/0006-291x(92)91269-v https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/0006-291X(92)91269-V

[xv] Tsujioka T, Miura Y, Otsuki T, et al. The mechanisms of vitamin K2-induced apoptosis of myeloma cells. Haematologica. 2006;91(5):613-619. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16670066/

[xvi] Kawakita H, Tsuchida A, Miyazawa K, et al. Growth inhibitory effects of vitamin K2 on colon cancer cell lines via different types of cell death including autophagy and apoptosis. Int J Mol Med. 2009;23(6):709-716. doi:10.3892/ijmm_00000184 https://www.spandidos-publications.com/ijmm/23/6/709

[xvii] Beaudin S, Kokabee L, Welsh J. Divergent effects of vitamins K1 and K2 on triple negative breast cancer cells. Oncotarget. 2019;10(23):2292-2305. Published 2019 Mar 19. doi:10.18632/oncotarget.26765 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6481349/

[xviii] Ogawa M, Nakai S, Deguchi A, et al. Vitamins K2, K3 and K5 exert antitumor effects on established colorectal cancer in mice by inducing apoptotic death of tumor cells. Int J Oncol. 2007;31(2):323-331. https://www.spandidos-publications.com/ijo/31/2/323

[xix] Dasari S, Samy ALPA, Kajdacsy-Balla A, Bosland MC, Munirathinam G. Vitamin K2, a menaquinone present in dairy products targets castration-resistant prostate cancer cell-line by activating apoptosis signaling. Food Chem Toxicol. 2018;115:218-227. doi:10.1016/j.fct.2018.02.018 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5935569/

[xx] Gul S, Maqbool MF, Maryam A, et al. Vitamin K: A novel cancer chemosensitizer. Biotechnol Appl Biochem. 2022;69(6):2641-2657. doi:10.1002/bab.2312 https://iubmb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bab.2312

[xxi] Tauchi T, Moriya S, Okabe S, Kazama H, Miyazawa K, Takano N. Vitamin K2 sensitizes the efficacy of venetoclax in acute myeloid leukemia by targeting the NOXA-MCL-1 pathway. PLoS One. 2024;19(7):e0307662. Published 2024 Jul 25. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0307662 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11271855/

[xxii] Haruna Y, Yakushijin T, Kawamoto S. Efficacy and safety of sorafenib plus vitamin K treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma: A phase II, randomized study. Cancer Med. 2021;10(3):914-922. doi:10.1002/cam4.3674 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7897941/

[xxiii] Amalia H, Sasaki R, Suzuki Y, et al. Vitamin K2-derived compounds induce growth inhibition in radioresistant cancer cells. Kobe J Med Sci. 2010;56(2):E38-E49. Published 2010 Sep 28. https://www.med.kobe-u.ac.jp/journal/contents/56/E38.pdf

[xxiv] Kaneyasu, Y., Fujiwara, H., Akita, T. et al. Suppressive effect of vitamin K2 (menatetrenone) against bone mineral density loss after radiotherapy in uterine cancer patients. Jpn J Radiol 43, 1025–1035 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11604-025-01733-5

[xxv] Markowska A, Antoszczak M, Markowska J, Huczyński A. Role of Vitamin K in Selected Malignant Neoplasms in Women. Nutrients. 2022; 14(16):3401. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14163401

[xxvi] Beaudin S., Kokabee L., Welsh J. Divergent effects of vitamins K1 and K2 on triple negative breast cancer cells. Oncotarget. 2019; 10: 2292-2305. Retrieved from https://www.oncotarget.com/article/26765/text/

[xxvii] Shimohara S, Murakami T, Morikawa M, et al. Vitamins K1 and K2 potentiate hyperthermia by down-regulating Hsp72 expression in vitro and in vivo. Int J Oncol. 2005;27(6):1527-1533. https://www.spandidos-publications.com/ijo/27/6/1527

[xxviii] Kim TH, Kim H, Lee HH, Sang JH. Vitamin K: Calcium Metabolism Modulator for Menopausal Women. J Menopausal Med. 2024;30(3):152-163. doi:10.6118/jmm.24023 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11745727/

[xxix] Ahmed SA, Yar AA, Ghaith AM, et al. Prevalence of Vitamin K2 Deficiency and Its Association with Coronary Artery Disease: A Case-Control Study. Diseases. 2025;13(1):12. Published 2025 Jan 11. doi:10.3390/diseases13010012 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11764201/

[xxx] Roumeliotis S, Kontogiorgos I, de Vries F, et al. The role of vitamin K2 in cognitive impairment: linking vascular health to brain health. Front Aging Neurosci. 2025;16:1527535. Published 2025 Jan 15. doi:10.3389/fnagi.2024.1527535 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11775153/

[xxxi] Suksomboon N, Poolsup N, Darli Ko Ko H. Effect of vitamin K supplementation on insulin sensitivity: a meta-analysis. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes. 2017;10:169-177. Published 2017 May 2. doi:10.2147/DMSO.S137571 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5422317/