Have you heard of Vitamin B14?

Pyrrolokhinolin Quinone - A aromatic water soluble triglyceride quinonis compound that simultaneously exhibits the properties of ascorbic acid, riboflavin and pyridoxal phosphate. 

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This organic compound was originally considered vitamin, although it was later found to be a vitamin-like compounds. Therefore was excluded from the vitamin group and became categorized cofers. Due to its action as an oxidizing and recovery agent in cells, it can change signal transmission and presumably maintain a mitochondrial function.

Chemical Formula- C₁₄ H₆ N₂ O₈

The Key Structural Features of this psuedo-vitamin

• Quinone Ring: The central quinone ring system is responsible for the redox activity of PQQ, allowing it to cycle between oxidized and reduced states.

• Pyrrole Ring: The pyrrole ring is fused to the quinone, creating the unique pyrroloquinoline structure.

• Carboxyl Groups: PQQ contains two carboxyl (-COOH) groups, which contribute to its polarity and water-solubility.

Comparison to Other Quinones PQQ is part of the broader class of quinone compounds, which are characterized by a cyclic dione structure. However, PQQ is distinct from other common quinones, such as ubiquinone (coenzyme Q) and vitamin K, due to the presence of the fused pyrrole ring.

Occurrence and Dietary Sources PQQ is found naturally in a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, fermented foods, and human breast milk. The highest concentrations are typically found in fermented products like natto, miso, and tempeh.

PQQ Biosynthesis

Over one hundred prokaryotes have been identified as capable of PQQ synthesis and use PQQ as an enzymatic cofactor.

PQQ is found in plant and animal tissues in the nanogram-to-gram range even though plants and animals do not produce PQQ themselves. PQQ has been found in fruits and vegetables, such as papaya, kiwi fruit, spinach, green pepper, parsley, celery, and more. But here is produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens.

The biosynthesis of PQQ is a complex process that involves at least six genes (pqqA-F) in bacteria like Klebsiella pneumoniae.

• PqqA: This gene encodes a small peptide that serves as the precursor for PQQ. The peptide contains the amino acids that will form the PQQ structure.

• PqqB-E: These genes encode enzymes that modify and cyclize the PqqA peptide to form an intermediate compound. The specific roles of each enzyme are not fully understood.

• PqqC: This enzyme catalyzes the final step, converting the intermediate compound into the mature PQQ molecule. PqqC performs an oxidative cyclization reaction to complete the PQQ structure

Biochemical Functions.

PQQ as cofactor for Dehydrogenase exzymes: Of the bacterial enzymes for which PQQ serves as a cofactor, most are glucose or alcohol dehydrogenases. The one exception is lupinine hydroxylase, from the genus Pseudomonas. 

PQQ serves a functional role in mammalian dehydrogenases such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). PQQ bound to LDH enhances NADH oxidation to NAD+ and pyruvate production.

Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Properties PQQ has been studied for its potential antioxidant and free radical scavenging abilities, which may contribute to neuroprotective effects. Some research suggests PQQ can help protect against oxidative stress and neurodegeneration.

Plant Growth Promotion Certain bacteria, like Pseudomonas fluorescens, can produce PQQ and use it to stimulate plant growth and development. PQQ may act as a signaling molecule or growth factor for plants.

Potential Role in Longevity Some studies have indicated that PQQ may have "longevity vitamin" properties, meaning it is not essential for immediate survival but may be important for long-term health and lifespan.

Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Metabolic Effects of PQQ Supplementation.

PQQ supplementation at doses of 5-10 mg per day was found to have the following effects:

• Reduced levels of C-reactive protein and interleukin-6, which are markers of inflammation.

• Reduced plasma malonaldehyde levels, indicating decreased oxidative stress.

• Altered the ratio of blood lactate to pyruvate and the profile of urinary metabolites, suggesting enhanced mitochondrial oxidation and energy metabolism. 

The reduction in CRP and IL-6 levels observed in the study suggests that PQQ supplementation had an anti-inflammatory effect. This means that PQQ was able to help lower the overall level of inflammation in the body.

Potential Effects on Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Cognitive Function.

• Daily supplementation with 20 mg of PQQ was shown to optimize mitochondrial biogenesis in human subjects.

• PQQ supplementation at 10-20 mg per day was found to improve cognitive function and memory in human subjects. 

The exact biochemical mechanisms and full scope of PQQ's functions are still being actively researched. Its role as a bacterial cofactor and potential benefits for human and plant health continue to explored.

Side effects?

the available evidence suggests that PQQ is generally well-tolerated, and serious side effects appear to be uncommon.

How can we consume Vitamin B14 if neither plants not animals produce it?

Common strains of bacteria in the human gut synthesize little PQQ. The major source of PQQ for humans is from plant-based foods. And these plants get this vitamin from the bacteria in their roots.