Nattokinase: Functions and Types
Nattokinase is a fibrinolytic enzyme with potential cardiovascular benefits that reduces plasma levels of fibrinogen, factor VII, and factor VIII, but there is no evidence supporting one specific type as superior to others for clinical outcomes.
What is Nattokinase?
Nattokinase is a serine protease enzyme derived from natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean food. It has several documented biological functions:
- Fibrinolytic activity: Nattokinase dissolves blood clots by breaking down fibrin, the protein that forms the structural foundation of blood clots 1
- Reduction of coagulation factors: Clinical research shows nattokinase decreases plasma levels of:
- Fibrinogen (7-10% reduction)
- Factor VII (7-14% reduction)
- Factor VIII (17-19% reduction) 1
Clinical Applications
Research suggests nattokinase may be beneficial for:
Vascular disease management: A 2021 study demonstrated that nattokinase (100 mg/day) improved clinical symptoms in patients with various vascular conditions including:
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Superficial vein thrombosis
- Venous insufficiency 2
Cardiovascular risk reduction: By decreasing coagulation factors, nattokinase may potentially reduce cardiovascular disease risk 1
However, it's important to note that a randomized controlled trial found that nattokinase supplementation had no significant effect on:
- Subclinical atherosclerosis progression
- Blood pressure
- Laboratory measures of cardiovascular risk 3
Types of Nattokinase
The research does not identify a "best type" of nattokinase supplement. Key considerations when selecting nattokinase include:
- Potency: Measured in Fibrinolytic Units (FU), typically 2000 FU per capsule in clinical studies 1, 3
- Production method: Nattokinase is primarily produced through microbial synthesis using Bacillus species 4
- Formulation: Available as oral supplements, typically in capsule form
Safety Considerations
- Generally recognized as safe when used as directed
- No significant adverse events were reported in clinical trials 2, 1
- No significant changes in uric acid levels were observed 1
Clinical Monitoring
For patients taking nattokinase, especially those with vascular diseases:
- Monitor INR (International Normalized Ratio) regularly
- Adjust dosages as needed based on clinical response
- Be aware of potential interactions with anticoagulant medications 2
Limitations and Future Directions
Despite promising preliminary research:
- Long-term cardiovascular outcomes data is limited
- More research is needed on optimal dosing and specific indications
- Production challenges include optimizing yield, activity, and stability 4, 5
Nattokinase continues to be studied as a potential natural alternative for cardiovascular disease management, with ongoing research focusing on improving its production and clinical applications.