PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone)

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a small quinone molecule that functions as a redox cofactor and a potent antioxidant. It was initially identified as a bacterial enzyme cofactor but has since been recognized for its role in mammalian biology, particularly in mitochondrial function. PQQ activates PGC-1α (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha), a master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis, leading to increased mitochondrial density and improved cellular energy production. Its antioxidant capacity is exceptional, capable of undergoing over 20.000 catalytic redox cycles compared to only 4 for vitamin C. In human trials, PQQ supplementation has shown improvements in short-term memory, attention, and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress. PQQ is found naturally in trace amounts in a wide variety of foods and is available as a dietary supplement, typically synthesized through bacterial fermentation.