Intervention
PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone)
Last updated Sat May 30 2026 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Pre-clinical— Mechanism shown in cells; human outcomes thin
What it is
PQQ is a redox-active cofactor first identified in bacteria. In mammals it acts as an antioxidant and induces mitochondrial biogenesis via PGC-1α activation. Naturally present in trace amounts in fermented soybeans, parsley, green peppers, kiwi.
Evidence
- Pre-clinical: rodent studies show improved mitochondrial number, reduced inflammation, neuroprotection.
- Human RCTs: a small (N=17) Japanese trial reported improvements in fatigue, sleep quality, and inflammation markers at 20 mg/day for 8 weeks; a follow-on showed cognitive effects in older adults.
- Hard endpoints: none.
Common pairing
PQQ is frequently formulated with CoQ10, the rationale being electron-transport chain support plus biogenesis. The combination has no specific outcome trials behind it.
Related entries
Mitochondrial dysfunction, PGC-1α, Coenzyme Q10, Urolithin A.
References
- Chowanadisai, W. et al. Pyrroloquinoline quinone stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis through CREB phosphorylation and increased PGC-1α expression. J. Biol. Chem. 285, 142–152 (2010).