A new “super–vitamin K” is three times more effective at stimulating the growth of new neurons

In laboratory experiments, the new molecules activated receptors responsible for neuronal growth and differentiation far more effectively than conventional vitamin K. At the same time, they were able to cross the blood–brain barrier—the brain’s natural protective shield.

“We have obtained substances that could potentially help in Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders characterized by neuronal loss,” the study’s authors noted.

Vitamin K has long been known for its beneficial effects on the brain, but its natural forms have limited efficacy. The new synthetic analogues significantly outperform them in terms of activity. So far, the research has been conducted on cell cultures and animal models, but the results appear very promising.

If further testing confirms their safety and effectiveness, such compounds could form the basis of new drugs capable of slowing down or partially reversing neurodegeneration. The study was published in the journal ACS Chemical Neuroscience.

Sources: Yoshihisa Hirota, Yoshitomo Suhara et al. Development of novel vitamin K derivatives with potent neurogenic activity. ACS Chemical Neuroscience, 2026.