5-Amino-1MQ

5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium (5-Amino-1MQ) is a small molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme highly expressed in adipose tissue that regulates energy metabolism. NNMT overexpression is linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome. By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ shifts cellular metabolism toward increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation.

Inhibits NNMT enzyme activity in adipocytes, preventing it from consuming SAM (S-adenosylmethionine) and producing 1-methylnicotinamide. This preserves SAM for epigenetic methylation and shifts NAD+ metabolism toward the salvage pathway, increasing cellular NAD+ levels. Also activates AMPK and increases SIRT1 expression. Net effect: reduced lipogenesis, increased lipolysis, enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis.

Estimated plasma half-life approximately 4 hours based on small molecule PK. Oral bioavailability demonstrated in animal models. Daily dosing typically 50–150 mg. Metabolic effects accumulate over weeks of consistent dosing. No formal human PK study published.

Obesity and metabolic syndrome, NNMT as a therapeutic target, adipose tissue metabolism, NAD+ salvage pathway modulation, muscle stem cell activation, body composition improvement.

Preclinical — promising animal data showing weight loss and metabolic improvement. No human clinical trials completed. Patented by University of Texas researchers. Available through research chemical suppliers and some compounding pharmacies.

• NNMT inhibition and obesity — Biochemical Pharmacology · doi.org
• 5-Amino-1MQ metabolic effects — J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. · pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• NNMT as anti-obesity target — Nature · doi.org
• 5-Amino-1MQ molecular pharmacology · doi.org