Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a powerful, vitamin-like compound discovered in the late 1960s and recognized as a key nutrient for cellular health and longevity. It plays an essential role in regulating fundamental biological processes, offering a wide range of anti-aging benefits. From boosting brain function and heart health to supporting mitochondria, bones, kidneys, skin, and gut health, PQQ is a true powerhouse for overall wellness. Keep reading to discover why this nutritional dynamo is gaining attention for its incredible health-boosting properties!

PQQ, Mitochondria, and Energy

PQQ plays a crucial role in regulating cell signaling pathways that enhance mitochondrial activity and metabolism. It improves energy production while reducing oxidative stress, leading to lower levels of metabolic waste and inflammatory products including C-reactive protein, IL-6, and lactic acid.

PQQ is over 1000 times more effective in antioxidant recycling than vitamin C, K, or several other phytonutrients. The spleen, pancreas, and lung contain the highest concentrations of PQQ.   

Small amounts of PQQ are naturally found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and breast milk. Yet, dietary intake ranges from only 0.1 - 2 mg/day.

Brain Health, Memory, and Neuroprotection

Regardless of age, a sharp memory, easy word finding, the ability to think and respond quickly, and focused attention reflect a healthy brain. Age and stress can make you feel forgetful, slow, and not as mentally sharp. PQQ is a powerful neuroprotective nutrient that can help with maintaining a healthy brain!     

PQQ enhances brain health and cognitive performance by activating and protecting mitochondria, which produces energy for your brain. It also increases Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and NGF receptors, which support growth, repair, and protection of nerves. Additionally, PQQ inhibits fibril formation and buildup of amyloid beta, providing neuroprotective support.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of the American Nutrition Association evaluated PQQ’s5 effect on healthy adults in their 70s. Participants who took 20 mg of PQQ per day for 12 weeks experienced improvements in memory, attention judgement, and cognitive function related to normal aging. Other research, with similar dosages of PQQ, showed increases in oxygen metabolism and blood flow in the brain, enhancing cognitive function in healthy adults aged 50-70.

PQQ for Stronger Bones, Joints, and Cartilage Health

Maintaining strong and dense bones is a lifelong goal and critical for aging well. Studies show that PQQ stimulates bone-building osteoblasts while inhibiting osteoclasts – cells responsible for bone breakdown – especially in response to oxidative stress and age-related decline of testosterone levels and estrogen levels. PQQ also activates Nrf2 antioxidant pathways, which inhibit aging mechanisms in bones.

A recent study also shows PQQ’s benefit for dental structure and jawbone health. Its powerful antioxidant effect increased osteoblast activity and collagen levels, which enhanced jawbone density and tooth development compared to the control group.

PQQ also supports cartilage health. A 2024 animal and cell study found  that 12 months of supplementation supported the discs of the spine. PQQ protected the matrix (the jelly inside the disc) against ROS, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and proinflammatory cytokines while activating Nrf2 signaling for anti-aging effects. Additional animal research showed PQQ benefits knee cartilage, preserving its integrity and reducing oxidative stress compared to control groups.

PQQ’s Role in Heart Health: Mitochondria, Blood Flow, and Cholesterol

Heart health is deeply connected to mitochondrial function. PQQ enhances heart muscle function by promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and acting as a powerful antioxidant. A 2020 study demonstrated that PQQ supplementation protected mitochondria and the heart muscle cells from free radical strain and oxidative stress, helping them to maintain their structural and functional integrity. It also supported heart pressure tolerance and cellular calcium metabolism. 

PQQ also influences cholesterol metabolism. A small, randomized clinical trial in healthy adult men showed after 12 weeks of PQQ supplementation, healthy LDL cholesterol levels were seen.

Kidney Function and Detoxification

The kidneys, which are rich in mitochondria, work 24/7 to filter and resorb fluids while protecting against environmental toxins and metabolic waste. This energy-intensive process creates high amounts of oxidative stress, which can impact the tubules, or filtering units, inside the kidneys. PQQ supplementation has been shown to activate the NRF2 antioxidant pathway, protecting the tubules from toxins and stressors.

Ovarian Health, Fertility, and Menstrual Support

Ovaries require significant energy to support reproduction and maintain a healthy menstrual cycle. As mitochondrial-rich tissues, they are highly sensitive to toxins and chemicals.

A recent study demonstrated that PQQ provided antioxidant protection to ovarian tissues exposed to chemotherapy alkylating agents. Results showed that PQQ supports mitochondrial biogenesis, inhibits cell apoptosis, and protects ovarian structure from oxidative stress. 

Metabolism, Fat Burning, and Weight Management

PQQ can enter fat cells and enhance metabolic efficiency. It helps activate AMPK and PGC-1alpha, master regulators of energy homeostasis, mitochondrial biogenesis, and fatty acid metabolism. Animal studies show PQQ supplementation reduces fat cell size and lipid content while improving insulin tolerance and cholesterol metabolism.

Furthermore, PQQ modulates the gut flora and supports butyrate production. This metabolic change leads to reduced fat storage in the liver and abdominal regions. PQQ also enhances antioxidant pathways in the liver, offering further metabolic benefits. 

Youthful Skin and Collagen Protection

Have you ever noticed your skin looking thinner, wrinkled or sagging after stressful times? Collagen integrity is key to skin health, and oxidative stress is the main culprit in accelerated skin aging. Studies show PQQ supplementation decreases reactive oxygen species (ROS) while increasing collagen levels, resulting in an anti-aging effect on the skin.

PQQ for Digestive Health

A recent animal study demonstrated that PQQ protected the intestinal lining from dysbiosis-related damage by supporting the mucosal barrier and tight junctions. Results also showed reduced NF-kappa B activity, lower inflammatory cytokine levels, increased beneficial immune compounds, and enhanced antioxidant capacity.

Another study demonstrated similar results as PQQ protected the intestinal lining and cells from apoptosis related to LPS toxicity. LPS toxins are released by non-beneficial bacteria and yeasts in the gut.

PQQ Activates Autophagy

Another anti-aging benefit of PQQ is its contribution to mitophagy and autophagy mechanisms. Early research with cell studies demonstrates that PQQ may enhance these mitochondrial and cellular clean-up mechanisms. These processes are used to recycle old or worn-out parts, repair, and then make new cells or mitochondria throughout the brain, muscles, and other tissues.

Protection Against Oxidized Seed Oils

Seed oils like corn, canola, soybean, safflower, and sunflower are prevalent in the Western diet. These common omega-6 oils are often oxidized during the manufacturing, storage, or cooking processes, making them rancid and pro-inflammatory.

When consumed, oxidized sunflower oil increases free radical production and lipid peroxidation, depleting important antioxidants like glutathione and SOD. A recent study showed that chickens supplemented with PQQ were protected against the damaging effects of rancid sunflower seed oil. Certainly an important consideration given the abundant presence of these rancid oils in the Western Diet.

BioPQQ: Optimized PQQ for Maximum Health Results

Wellness Resources® PQQ contains 20 mg of high-quality BioPQQ® per capsule. It can be taken combined with other antioxidants like Super Q10, Glutathione Ultra, R-Alpha Lipoic Acid, and Astaxanthin, for enhanced support. PQQ opens a new dimension in mitochondrial health – empowering you with energy, longevity and overall vitality!

Additional Resources:

PQQ: Magnificent Benefits in Multiple Arenas

PQQ and Coenzyme Q10 – Powerful Nutrients for Your Health

PQQ – What Can This Super Antioxidant Do For You?