Weight Loss and Metabolic
Not Approved
Small molecule inhibitor

5-Amino-1MQ

5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium

5-Amino-1MQ (5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium) represents a novel approach to metabolic research through its unique mechanism of inhibiting nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme crucial to cellular energy metabolism. This experimental research compound has garnered significant attention in the scientific community for its potential to enhance fat oxidation and improve metabolic efficiency by preserving cellular NAD+ levels. Unlike traditional weight management approaches, 5-Amino-1MQ works at the cellular level to optimize energy production and utilization, making it a subject of intense research interest. While preliminary studies suggest promising metabolic benefits, it's important to understand that 5-Amino-1MQ remains an experimental compound without FDA approval, available only for legitimate research purposes. This comprehensive guide explores the current understanding of 5-Amino-1MQ's mechanism, potential applications, research status, and important safety considerations for those involved in metabolic research.

Reviewed by PeptideGuide Research TeamLast updated February 15, 2026

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Molecular structure diagram of 5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium showing its chemical structure
Dosage
N/A
Half-life
N/A
Route
Oral
Cycle
N/A
Safety
Research Only

Mechanism of Action

5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium (5-Amino-1MQ) operates through a sophisticated mechanism targeting cellular energy metabolism at the enzymatic level. The compound functions as a selective inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme that plays a crucial role in cellular energy homeostasis and metabolic regulation. NNMT catalyzes the methylation of nicotinamide using S-adenosyl-L-methionine as a methyl donor, producing N-methylnicotinamide and S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine. This enzymatic reaction has significant implications for cellular energy status because it affects the availability of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a critical coenzyme in cellular respiration and energy production. When 5-Amino-1MQ inhibits NNMT activity, it preserves cellular NAD+ levels and enhances the NAD+/NADH ratio, which is fundamental to optimal mitochondrial function. This preservation of NAD+ availability supports enhanced oxidative phosphorylation and cellular energy expenditure. Additionally, NNMT inhibition appears to influence adipocyte metabolism by affecting the expression of genes involved in lipogenesis and lipolysis. The compound may also impact the activity of sirtuins, NAD+-dependent enzymes that regulate metabolic processes and cellular stress responses. Through these interconnected pathways, 5-Amino-1MQ potentially enhances thermogenesis, improves insulin sensitivity, and promotes the utilization of stored fat for energy, making it an interesting target for metabolic enhancement research.

Potential Benefits

The potential benefits of 5-Amino-1MQ stem from its unique ability to modulate cellular energy metabolism through NNMT inhibition, offering a novel approach to metabolic enhancement that differs from traditional weight management strategies. Research suggests that by preserving NAD+ levels and optimizing cellular energy efficiency, this compound may support enhanced fat oxidation and improved metabolic flexibility. Users and researchers have reported interest in its potential to promote thermogenesis - the process by which the body burns calories to produce heat - which could contribute to increased daily energy expenditure even at rest. The mechanism may also support improved insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for proper glucose metabolism and can help prevent the storage of excess calories as fat. Beyond weight management applications, 5-Amino-1MQ's effects on cellular energy metabolism may have broader implications for overall metabolic health. The compound's ability to enhance NAD+ availability could potentially support mitochondrial function, which is essential for cellular energy production and overall vitality. Some preliminary research suggests that NNMT inhibition might also influence inflammatory pathways and cellular stress responses, though these effects require further investigation. It's important to note that while the theoretical framework and early research are promising, 5-Amino-1MQ remains an experimental compound without FDA approval, and its long-term effects and optimal applications are still being studied in research settings.

Common Use Cases

Weight loss
Metabolic enhancement
Weight management
Obesity treatment

Dosage & Administration

Currently, there are no established clinical dosing guidelines for 5-Amino-1MQ due to its experimental status and lack of FDA approval. Research protocols have varied significantly, with some studies exploring doses ranging from 50-500 micrograms to several milligrams, depending on the research objectives and study design. The wide variation in reported research doses reflects the compound's experimental nature and the ongoing investigation into optimal dosing strategies. Factors that may influence appropriate research dosing include individual body weight, metabolic rate, research duration, and specific study endpoints. In research settings, some protocols have suggested starting with lower doses to assess individual tolerance before gradually adjusting based on response and research objectives. The compound's effects on cellular energy metabolism suggest that even small amounts may have significant biological activity, making careful dose escalation important in research contexts. Some researchers have explored both single-dose and divided-dose protocols, though optimal timing and frequency remain under investigation. The compound's half-life and duration of action are not fully characterized, which complicates dosing recommendations. It's essential to understand that any dosing information should only be applied in legitimate research contexts under appropriate supervision. Research institutions typically develop specific protocols based on extensive preliminary work, safety assessments, and regulatory compliance requirements. Individual responses to 5-Amino-1MQ may vary significantly based on genetic factors, baseline metabolism, and other individual characteristics. Anyone involved in research with this compound should work within established institutional protocols and maintain detailed records of dosing, timing, and observed effects for proper research documentation and safety monitoring.

Safety Information

Long-Term Safety

Long-term safety is not well-established, as it is currently only approved for research use.

Research & Clinical Evidence

Research on 5-Amino-1MQ is primarily in early-stage preclinical phases, with most evidence coming from in vitro studies and animal models rather than comprehensive human clinical trials. Initial studies by Kraus et al. demonstrated that NNMT inhibition through compounds like 5-Amino-1MQ could significantly affect cellular energy metabolism and fat accumulation in laboratory settings. Mouse model studies have shown promising results, with NNMT inhibition leading to reduced weight gain, improved glucose tolerance, and enhanced energy expenditure when animals were fed high-fat diets. These studies suggest that 5-Amino-1MQ may increase thermogenesis and promote fat oxidation through its effects on NAD+ metabolism and mitochondrial function. Recent research has focused on understanding the compound's effects on adipose tissue metabolism, with studies indicating that NNMT inhibition can alter gene expression patterns in fat cells, promoting lipolysis while reducing fat storage. Some preliminary research has also explored its potential effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, showing encouraging results in animal models. However, it's crucial to note that human clinical data remains extremely limited, with most available information coming from small-scale research studies or anecdotal reports from research communities. The translation from animal studies to human applications often involves significant differences in metabolism, dosing, and response patterns. While the theoretical framework and preliminary research are promising, comprehensive Phase I, II, and III clinical trials are needed to establish safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing protocols for any potential therapeutic applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Categories

Weight Loss and Metabolic
Anti-Obesity
Metabolic Enhancer