PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (BioPQQ))
A redox cofactor that stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis - the only known supplement to create NEW mitochondria. Acts as an extremely potent antioxidant (5000x stronger than vitamin C per mole) and activates PGC-1α for energy metabolism.
How it works
Activates PGC-1α (master mitochondrial biogenesis regulator) via CREB phosphorylation. Catalytic antioxidant that undergoes 20,000+ redox cycles vs one-time use of vitamin C. Stimulates NGF synthesis for neuroprotection.
Key facts
- Molecular weight: 330.21 Da
- Half-life: ~3-5 hours
- Bioavailability: ~60% oral
- Storage: Room temperature. Protect from moisture.
Dosing overview
- Typical dose: 10-20 mg
- Frequency: Daily
- Duration: Ongoing
- Route: Oral capsule
Reported benefits
- Mitochondrial biogenesis (new mitochondria)
- Potent antioxidant (catalytic)
- Nerve growth factor stimulation
- Improved sleep quality
- Enhanced cognitive function
- Cellular energy optimization
Possible side effects
- Mild headache (initial)
- Vivid dreams
- Rare: insomnia if taken late
- Generally very well-tolerated
Research
- PQQ and mitochondrial biogenesis in humans (2021): 20mg/day PQQ for 8 weeks increased plasma PQQ, improved mitochondrial-related gene expression (PGC-1α +35%), and reduced CRP by 45%.
- PQQ and cognitive function (2020): 20mg PQQ improved attention, working memory, and processing speed in healthy adults over 12-week supplementation (RBANS scores +10-15%).
Compare PQQ
Community discussions about PQQ
- vivid dreams and mild headaches after starting pqq – any tips? - 4 comments
- PQQ gave me vivid dreams and a light headache, timing helped - 6 comments
- Trying low‑dose rapamycin with PQQ – what I felt after a month - 6 comments
- Mild Headache and Vivid Dreams with PQQ – How to Mitigate or Is it Normal? - 4 comments
- PQQ 20mg daily – vivid dreams and a mild headache, what’s the trade‑off? - 8 comments
- Ask the community about PQQ
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.