pyrroloquinoline quinone

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a redox-active quinone compound that acts as a cofactor for various oxidative enzymes, particularly dehydrogenases. It is found in small amounts in foods such as fruits, vegetables, fermented products, and breast milk. PQQ plays important roles in biological processes including mitochondrial biogenesis, energy metabolism, reproduction, growth, and aging. It exhibits potent antioxidant properties by scavenging free radicals and protecting against oxidative stress. Mechanistically, PQQ modulates lactate acid and other dehydrogenases to enhance NAD+-dependent sirtuin activity and mitochondrial function[1][5][6][8]. It also influences metabolic regulation by suppressing fatty acid synthesis (lipogenesis), enhancing beta-oxidation through increased mitochondrial biogenesis[8], activating antioxidant response genes, modulating inflammatory pathways[6], and increasing nerve growth factor production for neuroprotection[8]. While not officially classified as a vitamin or conditional vitamin in humans yet[1], dietary deficiency of PQQ produces symptoms similar to vitamin deficiency in animal models with recovery upon supplementation. PQQ has been studied for potential benefits related to cognitive enhancement, neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer's disease), diabetes management via glucose sensing applications[8], cardiovascular health, metabolic disorders including obesity/fat accumulation reduction[8], anti-inflammatory effects,[1][5] and general longevity support.

Other names

methoxatin