Ultra PQQ™

Enhancing Mitochondrial Energy Production

Ultra PQQ features pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), a water-soluble, vitamin-like compound, and Rhodiola rosea, a popular adaptogen. PQQ is an enzyme cofactor possessing antioxidative, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective properties that encourage mitochondrial biogenesis. Rhodiola rosea helps support the adrenal glands. Research shows that Rhodiola rosea is a powerful herb that enhances mitochondrial energy production and helps defend against free radicals in both the nervous system and the mitochondria.

Why Ultra PQQ™?

  • Increased Energy Production
  • Cardiovascular Support
  • Cognitive Support
  • Antioxidant Qualities
  • PQQ is a naturally occurring molecule in many foods and crucial to human health.

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Health Benefits

 

Our heart is a vital organ responsible for maintaining circulation of blood to all parts of our bodies. Blood provides life-supporting oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, including to the heart itself. As one could imagine, complete or partial blockage of the heart can lead to nutrient deprivation and suffocation of the heart, causing cardiac ischemia. Interestingly, PQQ has been shown to play a crucial role in remediating the negative effects of cardiac ischemia15-19.

In a study by Zhu and fellow scientists, they found that PQQ treatment of heart cells reduced both mitochondrial depolarization and oxidative damage18! Furthermore, PQQ was shown to have a protective effect against heart damage when administered following the unblocking of an occluded cardiac blood vessel in animal models17-19. Even more remarkably, PQQ administration before and after triggering of a heart attack in mice resulted in 100% survival/recovery, whereas a significant percentage of death occurred in cohorts that did not receive PQQ (Table2).

Another study indicated that PQQ administration ranging from 5-20mg/kg inversely correlated to the area of damage in the heart resulting from cardiac ischemia; this indicated that the more PQQ that was given, the less of a damaging affect the cardiac ischemia caused15. These studies provide strong evidence of PQQ and its cardio-protective role. Not only does PQQ likely aid in recovery of the heart, it seems to help prevent heart damage as well!

More often than not as we age, we feel our cognitive capacity decreasing. This concept is nothing new to the general public and the medical field alike. Luckily, several studies have shown PQQ to have a positive effect on learning and memory function in animal models. An exciting study in the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition showed in pre-clinical models that that administration of PQQ-supplements resulted in improved memory and learning rate (Figure 2)19. The authors of this study conclude that PQQ seems to be a supplement that has the potential for long-term memory and function support.

Not only has PQQ been known to have a multitude of effects to benefit brain function, but it has been shown to have a neuroprotective effect as well! Blood supplies to the brain provide vital nutrients and oxygen required for proper brain function and maintenance. Sadly, this supply can become blocked resulting in ischemia (oxygen deprivation) and damage. PQQ has actually been shown to have a neuroprotective effect in hypoxic conditions as well as in the case of oxidative stress and spinal cord injury20-27!

A large body of evidence provided a basis for PQQ’s vital role in neurological health. This lead a group of researchers to test the effects of PQQ in the context of Parkinson’s disease, and they found that PQQ helps guard against the development of a protein that has been linked to early onset of Parkinson’s26. In addition, PQQ has also been found to have a preventative effect in the formation of amyloid-beta molecular structures which have been associated with Alzheimer’s disease27. With cutting-edge research still ongoing, only time will tell what additional, neurological benefits PQQ will provide us.

It’s 3 o’clock on a Monday afternoon and somehow even though you’re on your third cup of coffee, you just don’t seem to have the energy to get through the day! Maybe you didn’t get enough sleep the night before? Could it be the case of the Mondays? Do you need another cup of coffee? Granted these may be viable explanations and temporary solutions, but none provide a more long-term solution for lack of energy. On the other hand, PQQ has actually been shown to significantly improve long-term energy utilization by aiding in mitochondrial creation and function26-31.

The mitochondria are the “powerhouse” of the cell. These subcellular organelles play a large role in metabolism and provide energy for your body to use in the form of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). Mitochondria exist throughout your body, from the neurons in your brain to the cells in your muscles to even your immune cells! PQQ has been shown to be vital for optimal mitochondrial function and participates in optimizing energy use.

A groundbreaking clinical study conducted by scientists from University of California Davis (UC Davis) showed that PQQ helps drive efficient energy usage of the mitochondria in humans by decreasing oxidative byproducts and metabolites6. They further found that PQQ enhanced mitochondria-related functions in participants, resulting in reduced inflammation6.

In addition to improving mitochondrial function, PQQ is also responsible in the process of making more mitochondria for increased energy production, called mitochondrial biogenesis31,32. Chowanadisai and colleagues famously elucidated the causal mechanism by which PQQ increases mitochondria production and function32. They showed that PQQ increases mitochondria production through increased expression of an important protein factor called PGC-1α, which has been known to directly increase mitochondria biogenesis. By increasing number of mitochondria, PQQ offers a more robust and reliable means of increasing energy potential for our bodies. This sentiment was further emphasized in a study where scientists provided proof-of-concept data that PQQ causes increased mitochondrial biogenesis in pre-clinical models33. The study showed that as little as a few micrograms of PQQ supplemented in the diets of mice lead to a significant increase in mitochondria production as well as increased energy utilization (Figure 3) 33. Because of the ubiquitous presence of the mitochondria in providing energy to multiple systems in our body, we can truly appreciate what an important role PQQ takes in helping us maintain energy.

 

PQQ has been shown to be a particularly effective antioxidant. During everyday activities we get exposure to toxic substances that induce the creation of free radicals. Free radicals emanate and accumulate from both endogenous sources as well as toxins we get exposed to and damaging effects from the sun. These free radicals then run rampant to cause damage throughout our bodies, and have been indicated in aging and cancer.

Antioxidants are a vital line of defense that our bodies use to help eliminate these free radicals. Several studies have shown that PQQ acts as a more potent antioxidant and has the highest potential of catalytic cycles, even compared to Vitamin C4,11,12!

Subsequent studies in human clinical trials by Harris and colleagues showed a direct correlation of PQQ and antioxidative potential (Figure 1)15. Based on measures of circulating PQQ in patient blood following oral administration of PQQ showed an immense increase in antioxidant potential based on increased levels of PQQ. In addition to the clinical evidence of decreased antioxidative stress, they also found that PQQ also reduced indications of inflammation15.

About PQQ

Originally discovered in 1964, pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) was initially described as just a modest cofactor of glucose dehydrogenase1. Since its humble discovery in bacteria, PQQ has been identified as an essential enzymatic cofactor as well as an important antioxidant in a multitude of different systems and species, including humans2-6. PQQ is a natural substance that has shown to be also found naturally in soil, plants, and in the vegetables we eat (Table1)4,7,8. The ubiquity of PQQ and its presence in many natural settings lends to the idea of its fundamental importance in function of everyday life.

Sometimes referred to as methoxatin, PQQ plays a vital role as an enzyme cofactor. There are numerous, essential enzymes that require PQQ for their function, and as such, these enzymes are appropriately categorized as quinoproteins. For example, IRE1 is an essential protein that aids in the prevention of toxic accumulation of misfolded proteins. IRE1 relies on PQQ for its proper function in order to maintain healthy homeostasis, and there are numerous other human quinoproteins in which the enzyme activity is highly dependent on PQQ9. Another important quinoprotein aids in neurological health. Dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH) helps equilibrate our neurochemicals and maintain chemical balance, and DBH requires presence and binding of PQQ to facilitate proper catalysis10.

In addition to its vital role as a enzyme cofactor, PQQ has also been shown to be a highly effective antioxidants, helping our body to get rid of toxic free radicals that contribute to aging and other related conditions4,11,12.

Through a multitude of mechanisms, PQQ helps maintain and support cardiovascular health, rejuvenates brain function, and gives us more energy to help keep us active and healthy.

Safety

PQQ is a naturally occurring and crucial to human health. PQQ has been previously proposed by scientists to be an effective dietary supplement because our bodies are not able to naturally synthesize it13. Subsequent studies sought to test safety and toxicities associated with PQQ13,14. The recommended daily intake of PQQ is 10-20 mg/day, and researchers found it to be safe even at relatively high dosages well above the recommended dose13,14. The FDA allows for the consumption and use of PQQ as a dietary product in the United States, and it has also been utilized in clinical trials where no adverse side effects were seen6.

Ultra PQQ features pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), a water-soluble, vitamin-like compound, and Rhodiola rosea, a popular adaptogen. PQQ is an enzyme cofactor possessing antioxidative, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective properties that encourage mitochondrial biogenesis. Rhodiola rosea helps support the adrenal glands. Research shows that Rhodiola rosea is a powerful herb for enhancing mitochondrial energy production and helps defend against free radicals in the nervous system as well as the mitochondria.

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References

  1. Hauge JG. Glucose dehydrogenase of Bacterium anitratum: an enzyme with a novel prosthetic group. J Biol Chem 1964;239:3630-3639.
  2. Anthony C. Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) and quinoprotein enzymes. Antioxid Redox Signal 2001;3:757-774.
  3. Goodwin PM, Anthony C. The biochemistry, physiology and genetics of PQQ and PQQ- containing enzymes. Adv Microb Physiol 1998;40:1- 80.
  4. Stites TE, Mitchell AE, Rucker RB. Physiological importance of quinoenzymes and the O-quinone family of cofactors. J Nutr 2000;130:719-727.
  5. Sato K, Toriyama M. Effect of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) on melanogenic protein expression in murine B16 melanoma. J Dermatol Sci 2009;53:140-145.
  6. Harris CB, Chowanadisai W, Mishchuk DO, Satre MA, Slupsky CM, Rucker R, Dietary pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) alters indicators of inflammation and mitochondrial-related metabolism in human subjects. J Nutr Biochem 2013;24:2076-2084
  7. Choi O, Kim J, Kim JG, et al. Pyrroloquinoline quinone is a plant growth promotion factor produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens B16. Plant Physiol 2008;146:657-668.
  8. Kumazawa T, Sato K, Seno H, et al. Levels of pyrroloquinoline quinone in various foods. Biochem J 1995;307:331-333.
  9. Anthony C,. Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) and Quinoprotein Enzymes. Antiox & Redox Signaling 2001; 757-774.
  10. Friedman S, Kaufman S. 3,4-dihydroxyphenylethylamine beta-hydroxylase. Physical properties, copper content, and role of copper in the catalytic activity. J Biol Chem 1965; 240(12):4763-73.
  11. Paz MA, Fluckiger R, Gallop PM. Redox-cycling is a property of PQQ but not of ascorbate. FEBS Lett 1990; 264:283-284.
  12. Fluckiger R, Paz M, Mah J, et al. Characterization of the glycine-dependent redox-cycling activity in animal fluids and tissues using specific inhibitors and activators: evidence for presence of PQQ. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1993;196:61-68.
  13. Liang C, Zhang X, Wang W, et al. A subchronic oral toxicity study on pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) disodium salt in rats. Food Chem Toxicol. 2015; 75;146-150
  14. Nakano M, Takahashi H, Koura S, et al. Acute and subchronic toxicity studies of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) disodium salt (BioPQQ) in rats. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2007; 70 (1); 107-121
  15. Zhu BQ, Simonis U, Cecchini G, et al. Comparison of pyrroloquinoline quinone and/or metoprolol on myocardial infarct size and mitochondrial damage in a rat model of ischemia/reperfusion injury. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2006;11:119-128.
  16. Tao R, Karliner JS, Simonis U, et al. Pyrroloquinoline quinone preserves mitochondrial function and prevents oxidative injury in adult rat cardiac myocytes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007;363:257-262.
  17. Zhu BQ, Zhou HZ, Teerlink JR, Karliner JS. Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) decreases myocardial infarct size and improves cardiac function in rat models of ischemia and ischemia/reperfusion. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2004;18:421-431.
  18. Zhu BQ, Simonis U, Cecchini G, Zhou HZ, Li L, et al. (2006) Comparison of pyrroloquinoline quinone and/or metoprolol on myocardial infarct size and mitochondrial damage in a rat model of ischemia/reperfusion injury. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 11: 119–128
  19. Ohwada K, Takeda H, Yamazaki M, et al. Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) prevents cognitive deficit caused by oxidative stress in rats. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2008;42:29-34.
  20. Steinberg F, Stites TE, Anderson P, et al. Pyrroloquinoline quinone improves growth and reproductive performance in mice fed chemically defined diets. Exp Biol Med (Maywood)
  21. Hirakawa A, Shimizu K, Fukumitsu H, Furukawa S. Pyrroloquinoline quinone attenuates iNOS gene expression in the injured spinal cord. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2009;378:308-312.
  22. Zhang Y, Feustel PJ, Kimelberg HK. Neuroprotection by pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) in reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion in the adult rat. Brain Res 2006;1094:200-206.
  23. Jensen FE, Gardner GJ, Williams AP, et al. The putative essential nutrient pyrroloquinoline quinone is neuroprotective in a rodent model of hypoxic/ ischemic brain injury. Neuroscience 1994;62:399-406
  24. Sanchez RM, Wang C, Gardner G, et al. Novel role for the NMDA receptor redox modulatory site in the pathophysiology of seizures. J Neurosci 2000;20:2409-2417.
  25. Scanlon JM, Aizenman E, Reynolds IJ. Effects of pyrroloquinoline quinone on glutamate-induced production of reactive oxygen species in neurons. Eur J Pharmacol 1997;326:67-74.
  26. Kobayashi M, et al. Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) prevents fibril formation of alpha-synuclein. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2006;349(3):1139-44.
  27. Kim J, et al. Full text: Pyrroloquinoline quinone inhibits the fibrillation of amyloid proteins. Prion. 2010;4(1):26-31.
  28. Rucker R, Storms D, Sheets A, et al. Biochemistry: is pyrroloquinoline quinone a vitamin? Nature 2005;433:E10-E11;discussion E11-E12.
  29. Kumazawa T, Hiwasa T, Takiguchi M, et al. Activation of ras signaling pathways by pyrroloquinoline quinone in NIH3T3 mouse fibroblasts. Int J Mol Med 2007;19:765-770.
  30. Debray FG, Lambert M, Mitchell GA. Disorders of mitochondrial function. Curr Opin Pediatr 2008;20:471-482.
  31. Bauerly K, Storms D, Harris C, et al. Pyrroloquinoline quinone nutritional status alters lysine metabolism and modulates mitochondrial DNA content in the mouse and rat. Biochim. Biophys. Acta 2006; 1760: 1741–1748
  32. Chowanadisai W, Bauerly K, Tchaparian E, et al. Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Stimulates Mitochondrial biogenesis through cAMP Response Element-binding Protein Phosphorylation and Increased PGC-1alpha Expression. J Bio Chem. 2009; 285: 142-152
  33. Stites T, Storms D, Baurely K, et al. Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Modulates Mitochondrial Quantity and Function in Mice. Nutri Phys Metab Nutri-Nutri Interact. 2006; 390-396

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This information on this website is provided for developmental purposes only. This is not a specification, a guarantee of composition, or certificate of analysis. The information contained herein is correct to the best of our knowledge. Recommendations and suggestions contained on this website are made without guarantee or representation as to results. We suggest you evaluate these recommendations prior to use. Our responsibility for claims arising from breach of warranty, negligence, or otherwise is limited to the purchase price of the material.