Multidimensional Health Support of PQQ-Based Products

In recent years, pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) has moved rapidly from the laboratory into functional foods and dietary supplements after receiving GRAS status from the U.S. FDA, novel-food authorization from the European Union, and approval as a new food ingredient in China.

1. Cognitive and Brain Health
Two randomized, double-blind trials have shown that PQQ can improve prefrontal cortex blood flow, composite memory, and executive function. In an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model, PQQ reversed cognitive deficits by enhancing mitochondrial function, reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS), and decreasing phosphorylated tau protein. This mechanism has made PQQ a star ingredient in the “brain-health” segment, where it is often combined with ginkgo biloba or phosphatidylserine in stick-pack powders or capsules.

2. Exercise Performance and Fatigue Management
PQQ suppresses exercise-induced NF-κB-mediated inflammation and preserves mitochondrial morphology. Six weeks of endurance training plus PQQ significantly up-regulated PGC-1α expression and decreased creatine kinase levels in male volunteers, leading to improved exercise capacity. Consequently, PQQ is now widely incorporated into energy drinks and sports nutrition bars, frequently co-formulated with CoQ10 and guarana for synergistic effects.

3. Bone Health
Animal studies demonstrate that PQQ increases bone mineral density and strength in ovariectomized or ************-deficient mice through bidirectional regulation that promotes osteogenesis while inhibiting osteoclastogenesis.

4. Hepatoprotection
In models of alcohol-, high-fat-, and heavy-metal-induced liver injury, PQQ activates the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway, down-regulates TLR4 inflammatory signaling, and markedly reduces ALT, AST, and hepatic collagen deposition.

5. Beauty & Skin Health
PQQ decreases transepidermal water loss and attenuates wrinkles. It is commonly paired with astaxanthin and white tomato extract in oral beauty powders.

Current Market Landscape
In Europe and the United States, PQQ has already penetrated mainstream foods such as energy drinks, multivitamins, and meal replacements, whereas in China it is still primarily sold as dietary supplements—mainly in solid-beverage formats. With expanding production capacity and further regulatory liberalization, PQQ is expected to be combined more deeply with NMN, probiotics, and plant extracts, unlocking new opportunities in niche segments such as sports nutrition, healthy aging, and women’s beauty.

Reference
[1] Li, Z. & Yang, Y. Functional characteristics of pyrroloquinoline quinone and research progress on its products. Journal of Food Safety & Quality, 2023, 14(22): 252-258. DOI:10.19812/j.cnki.jfsq11-5956/ts.2023.22.015

*Special note - This article is for informational purposes only and cannot replace a doctor's treatment diagnosis and advice. It should not be regarded as a recommendation or proof of efficacy of the medical products involved. If it involves disease diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, please be sure to go to a professional medical institution to seek professional advice.

by GSHWORLD

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