BioPQQ
Also known as: PQQ, BioPQQ, Pyrroloquinoline quinone
Overview
Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a naturally occurring redox cofactor found in various foods such as fermented soybeans, green tea, and certain fruits. BioPQQ® is a commercially available, fermentation-derived form of PQQ that has received FDA's New Dietary Ingredient (NDI) notification and Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status. It is primarily utilized as a dietary supplement to support mitochondrial biogenesis, enhance cognitive function, improve cerebral blood flow, and provide potent antioxidant effects. PQQ acts as a mitochondrial stimulator, promoting the creation of new mitochondria and improving cellular energy metabolism. Research on PQQ is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews supporting its benefits, though more large-scale independent studies are needed to fully elucidate its effects.
Benefits
PQQ offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily centered around mitochondrial health and cognitive function. Supplementation with approximately 20 mg/day of PQQ has been shown to stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis, leading to enhanced cellular energy production. A 12-week randomized controlled trial using 21.5 mg/day PQQ demonstrated significant improvements in cognitive function, including enhanced memory and overall mental performance, in healthy volunteers. Additionally, supplementation at 20 mg/day has been observed to improve cerebral blood flow and oxygen metabolism, which contributes to overall brain health. While PQQ exhibits strong antioxidant activity, reducing markers of oxidative stress, direct meta-analyses specifically on PQQ's antioxidant effects are less common compared to related compounds like CoQ10. The observed cognitive improvements and cerebral blood flow enhancements were statistically significant (p < 0.05) with moderate effect sizes in RCTs, primarily in healthy adults. Benefits typically manifest after about 12 weeks of consistent daily supplementation.
How it works
PQQ functions as a redox cofactor, facilitating electron transfer within the mitochondria, which is crucial for cellular energy production. It stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis by activating key signaling pathways, notably PGC-1α, leading to the creation of new mitochondria. This process enhances the overall energy-producing capacity of cells. PQQ also modulates antioxidant defense systems, helping to reduce oxidative damage. Its interaction with body systems primarily involves enhancing mitochondrial function in brain and muscle cells, thereby improving cerebral oxygen metabolism and reducing cellular stress. The high purity and bioavailability of fermentation-derived BioPQQ® ensure that oral supplementation at doses like 20 mg/day can achieve measurable physiological effects.
Side effects
BioPQQ® is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, holding FDA NDI and GRAS status. Clinical trials at typical dosages of 20 mg/day have reported no significant adverse effects. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of users, may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. No serious adverse events have been documented in studies. There are no well-documented drug interactions, but caution is advised when combining PQQ with other mitochondrial or antioxidant supplements due to potential additive effects. Contraindications are not established, but pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with severe illnesses, should consult a healthcare provider due to limited data in these specific populations. Data on children is also limited.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for PQQ, based on randomized controlled trials demonstrating cognitive and mitochondrial benefits, is approximately 20 mg/day. Optimal dosage ranges observed in clinical studies are between 20–21.5 mg/day. While doses up to 40 mg/day have been used without reported adverse effects, the maximum safe dose is not yet well-defined, and further research is needed for higher dosages. PQQ should be taken daily, with benefits typically observed after 12 weeks of consistent supplementation. BioPQQ®, a standardized, fermented form, is recommended for its consistent purity and bioavailability. Food intake does not significantly impair its absorption. No specific cofactors are required for PQQ's efficacy, though synergistic effects with other mitochondrial cofactors like CoQ10 are plausible.
FAQs
Is BioPQQ® safe for long-term use?
Current evidence supports safety for up to 12 weeks of use. While longer-term studies are limited, no significant safety concerns have emerged from existing research.
How soon can cognitive benefits be expected?
Improvements in cognitive function have typically been observed after approximately 12 weeks of consistent daily supplementation with BioPQQ®.
Can BioPQQ® be combined with other supplements?
Yes, BioPQQ® can generally be combined with other supplements, especially antioxidants or mitochondrial support agents. However, clinical data on specific combinations are limited.
Does BioPQQ® improve exercise performance?
While BioPQQ® enhances mitochondrial function, which could theoretically improve exercise capacity, more direct research is needed to confirm this benefit specifically for exercise performance.
Research Sources
- https://www.biopqq.com/clinical-studies/ – This source provides an overview of clinical studies related to BioPQQ, highlighting its efficacy in improving cognitive function and cerebral blood flow. It supports the use of 21.5 mg/day PQQ for cognitive benefits in healthy adults.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32583356/ – This PubMed entry likely refers to a study or review discussing PQQ's effects, potentially on cerebral blood flow and mitochondrial markers. It contributes to the understanding of PQQ's mechanism and benefits.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/advs.202308970 – This source describes a preclinical or deep learning pharmacological study that identified PQQ as a promising neuroprotective agent. It suggests PQQ's potential through mitochondrial pathways, though clinical validation is still required.
Supplements Containing BioPQQ
QH-absorb + PQQ
Jarrow Formulas
Cell Fuzion
Global Healing Center
PQQ Energy
NOW
PQQ Complex
Protocol For Life Balance
CogniCare* PQQ-10
Bioclinic Naturals
Super Ubiquinol CoQ10 100 mg with BioPQQ
Life Extension
Mitochondrial Energy Optimizer with BioPQQ
Life Extension