5-Amino-1MQ (5-amino-1-methylquinoline) is a synthetic methylquinolinium derivative, not a traditional peptide, despite being sometimes referred to as one in wellness contexts. It is a small, selective, membrane-permeable molecule that inhibits NNMT, an enzyme involved in metabolism and energy regulation, primarily active in fat tissue. By blocking NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ increases levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a critical coenzyme for cellular metabolism, and activates sirtuin-1 (SIRT1), often called the “longevity gene.”
Amino Acid Composition
There is no definitive list of specific amino acids that form 5-Amino-1MQ, as it is not a peptide composed of amino acids but rather a synthetic molecule derived from methylquinolinium. Some sources, particularly in bodybuilding contexts, incorrectly describe it as containing amino acids like leucine, isoleucine, valine, glutamine, and HMB (a leucine metabolite). However, these claims appear to be inaccurate or speculative, as 5-Amino-1MQ’s chemical structure is a quinoline ring, not a chain of amino acids.
Potential Benefits
Research, primarily from animal studies (e.g., mice), suggests several potential benefits of 5-Amino-1MQ, though human clinical trials are limited:
Weight Loss and Fat Metabolism:
Inhibits NNMT, increasing fat oxidation and reducing fat cell size and volume (up to 30-40% reduction in adipocyte size in obese mice).
Enhances basal metabolic rate (BMR) and promotes fat burning without affecting food intake.
Reduces cholesterol levels (e.g., 30% lower in treated mice) and improves insulin sensitivity, potentially aiding in obesity and type 2 diabetes management.
Muscle Regeneration:
Stimulates muscle stem cell proliferation, enhancing muscle repair and recovery, particularly in aged or injured muscle tissue.
In mice, it increased myofiber size and cross-sectional area by twofold, suggesting potential for treating muscle-wasting conditions like Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Anti-Aging and Longevity:
Boosts NAD+ levels, supporting mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and cellular resilience, which may mitigate age-related metabolic decline.
Activates SIRT1, linked to reduced risks of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegeneration.