Mechanism of Action
5-Amino-1MQ works by competitively inhibiting NNMT, the enzyme responsible for methylating nicotinamide (a NAD+ precursor) into 1-methylnicotinamide. When NNMT is active, it consumes SAM (S-adenosylmethionine) and depletes nicotinamide from the NAD+ recycling pool.
NAD+ Elevation
Blocking NNMT restores nicotinamide flux back into the NAD+ biosynthesis pathway. Higher intracellular NAD+ activates SIRT1 and SIRT3 (NAD+-dependent deacetylases), promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and fat oxidation.Adipocyte Differentiation Block
Elevated SAM levels following NNMT inhibition shift the methylation balance in mesenchymal stem cells, reducing PPAR-γ expression and inhibiting pre-adipocyte differentiation into mature fat cells.Thermogenesis
Animal data shows increased UCP1 expression in white adipose tissue ("browning"), converting energy-storing white fat into heat-generating beige fat.Research Summary
5-Amino-1MQ remains a preclinical compound. No human clinical trials have been published as of 2026.
Rodent Fat Loss Studies
Diet-induced obese mice given 5-Amino-1MQ showed ~7–9% reduction in total body fat compared to controls over 8 weeks, with no significant change in lean mass. Metabolic rate (VO2) was elevated without changes to food intake or activity levels.Muscle Preservation
Preliminary data suggests co-administration with caloric restriction preserves lean muscle mass better than restriction alone, attributed to SIRT1 activation.Safety Profile
Rodent toxicity studies at research doses show no hepatotoxicity or significant organ changes. No human safety data exists.Calculate your 5-Amino-1MQ dose Vial strength, BAC water, exact syringe draw in IU. Free, no signup. Open Calc →
Research Protocols
Standard Protocol
Typical research dosing is 50 mg orally once daily. Some protocols run 100 mg split into two 50 mg doses. Oral bioavailability allows capsule or liquid solution administration.Cycle Length
Most research protocols use 4–8 week cycles with 4 weeks off. Long-term NNMT inhibition effects in humans are unknown.Stacking Considerations
Sometimes stacked with NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) to further support the NAD+ pool. May also be combined with aod-9604/" class="wiki-internal-link">AOD-9604 or MOTS-c for metabolic synergy in research contexts.Storage & Handling
5-Amino-1MQ is typically supplied as a powder or pre-filled capsules. Store in a cool, dry location away from moisture and light. No reconstitution required for oral use. Shelf life is 1–2 years when stored properly.
References
- [1]Neelakantan H, et al. "5-Amino-1MQ blocks NNMT and increases NAD+ in adipose tissue." Biochemistry, 2019.
- [2]Hong S, et al. "NNMT inhibition restores SAM homeostasis and reduces adipogenesis." Nat Chem Biol, 2015.