n 2003, scientists discovered a compound called Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) that was classified as part of the B-vitamin family. PQQ is considered an essential vitamin because our bodies do not produce it and therefore it must be obtained from food or supplements. It also falls under the B-vitamin category because it plays a role in the metabolism of the essential amino acid lysine, which helps form collagen (essential to all connective tissues) and aids in the production of immune system components, hormones and enzymes.
One of PQQs main functions is to work as an antioxidant within mitochondria, protecting them from oxidative damage. Preliminary evidence suggests that it may be thousands of times more powerful than vitamin C as an antioxidant as it can quench free radicals over 20,000 times while vitamin C can only do it four times before being used up. It also directly stimulates key enzymes in the mitochondria to boost energy production.
Technical insights:
- Country of origin: Japan
- Starting material: Pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt
- Extraction: Microbial fermentation
- Stored form: Reddish brown powder