1. A group of fat-soluble vitamins of the K family, produced by bacteria and found in fermented foods, that play a role in blood clotting and bone metabolism.
Usage: technical; biochemistry; plural form; singular is menaquinone; also called vitamin K2

Examples

• Menaquinones are synthesized by gut bacteria and contribute to vitamin K status in the body.
• Fermented foods like natto and sauerkraut are rich sources of menaquinones.
• The menaquinones found in cheese help activate proteins involved in bone mineralization.
• Researchers study menaquinones for their potential role in cardiovascular health.
• Unlike phylloquinone, menaquinones are produced by bacterial fermentation rather than plants.