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Biopqq Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt

Also known as: Pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt, PQQ disodium salt, Pyrroloquinoline quinone, PQQ, BioPQQ

Overview

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a naturally occurring redox-active compound found in various foods. As a biofactor with vitamin-like properties, PQQ plays a crucial role in cellular energy metabolism and mitochondrial function. PQQ disodium salt, a stable and water-soluble form, is commonly used in dietary supplements. It is primarily recognized for its potential to enhance mitochondrial biogenesis, antioxidant capacity, and anti-inflammatory effects. Research suggests applications in metabolic health, neuroprotection, skin health, and anti-aging. While research is ongoing, preclinical studies and some human trials show promise, but more systematic reviews and meta-analyses are needed to confirm these findings. PQQ's ability to modulate mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress makes it a compelling area of study for various health applications. It is considered a nutraceutical supplement.

Benefits

PQQ enhances mitochondrial biogenesis by activating pathways involving sirtuins, PGC-1α, NRF-1, NRF-2, and TFAM, which regulate mitochondrial DNA replication and function. This may improve cellular energy production and resilience. PQQ also acts as an antioxidant by modulating cell signaling pathways, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Animal and cell studies suggest PQQ reduces visceral and hepatic fat accumulation, improves mitochondrial dysfunction, and mitigates obesity-associated inflammation, potentially reducing risks of metabolic syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and type 2 diabetes. A randomized controlled trial showed that oral PQQ intake improved skin hydration and barrier function in female subjects with dry skin.

How it works

PQQ modulates mitochondrial biogenesis by activating sirtuin enzymes and transcription factors (PGC-1α, NRF-1, NRF-2, TFAM), enhancing mitochondrial DNA replication and function. It influences lactate dehydrogenase and possibly other dehydrogenases, affecting NAD+/NADH balance, which is critical for cellular metabolism and sirtuin activity. PQQ's antioxidant properties stem from its redox cycling ability, scavenging reactive oxygen species and modulating inflammatory signaling pathways. Oral bioavailability of PQQ disodium salt is adequate to exert systemic effects, as demonstrated in human and animal studies.

Side effects

PQQ is generally well tolerated in human studies, with no serious adverse events reported. Common side effects are rare; mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been occasionally noted but not consistently. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been documented in the literature reviewed. Special populations, such as pregnant women and children, have not been extensively studied, so caution is advised. While PQQ appears safe at commonly used doses, long-term safety and potential interactions with other medications or supplements should be further investigated. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before using PQQ.

Dosage

Effective doses in human studies range around 20 mg/day orally for skin benefits. Optimal dosing for metabolic or mitochondrial benefits in humans is not well established due to limited clinical trials. PQQ disodium salt is typically administered as an oral supplement; absorption is influenced by formulation but generally good. There is no established maximum safe dose; animal studies use higher doses without toxicity, but human safety at high doses requires further study. It is advisable to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it while monitoring for any adverse effects. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for individual needs.

FAQs

Is PQQ safe for daily use?

Current evidence suggests PQQ is safe and well-tolerated at doses used in human studies (around 20 mg/day). However, long-term studies are needed to confirm its safety over extended periods.

How long does it take to see benefits?

Skin improvements were observed after 14-28 days of supplementation. Metabolic effects may require longer-term use, but human data are insufficient to determine a specific timeframe.

Does PQQ work as an antioxidant?

Yes, but it also modulates mitochondrial biogenesis and cell signaling, making its effects broader than classical antioxidants. It supports cellular health through multiple mechanisms.

Can PQQ help with energy levels?

PQQ's role in mitochondrial biogenesis suggests it may improve cellular energy production. However, more human studies are needed to confirm its effects on energy levels and fatigue.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8533503/ – This narrative review summarizes PQQ’s role beyond antioxidant activity, focusing on mitochondrial biogenesis via sirtuin activation and transcription factors. It highlights PQQ’s potential as a vitamin-like nutraceutical with therapeutic applications, while acknowledging the need for more human RCTs to validate preclinical findings.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10196175/ – This review of animal and cell culture studies shows PQQ reduces visceral and hepatic fat, improves mitochondrial function, and mitigates obesity-related inflammation. The review emphasizes the lack of robust human clinical trials to confirm these effects, suggesting PQQ’s promise in metabolic syndrome and obesity prevention warrants further investigation.
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jnsv/61/3/61_241/_article – This RCT in female subjects with dry skin and mouse models demonstrates that oral PQQ disodium salt (dose ~20 mg/day equivalent) improved skin hydration and barrier function. Statistically significant improvements in transepidermal water loss and skin moisture content were observed after 14-28 days, indicating PQQ's potential for skin health.