Menaquinone-4, commonly identified by the CAS number 11032-49-8 and often referred to as Menatetrenone or MK-4, is a fat-soluble naphthoquinone derivative belonging to the Vitamin K2 family. Characterized by its specific side chain consisting of four isoprene units, this compound appears as a yellow crystalline solid or viscous oil. It is chemically distinct from its counterparts due to its unique metabolic pathways and its role as a primary tissue-specific form of Vitamin K.
In industrial and research settings, MK-4 is valued for its high biological activity and its specific interaction with various protein substrates. Due to its sensitivity to light and oxidative environments, the material requires careful handling and storage, typically under cool, dark conditions to maintain its structural integrity. It serves as a critical raw material in the development of dietary supplements and specialized nutritional formulations aimed at supporting physiological functions.