Back to Library
ID: 5-AMINO-1MQ STATUS: ACTIVE

5-Amino-1MQ

Research Only

Also known as: 5-Amino-1-Methylquinolinium, NNMT Inhibitor

A small molecule NNMT inhibitor studied for metabolic effects in animal models. No human clinical trials have been conducted. Increases NAD+ levels in adipose tissue in preclinical studies.

Metabolic Low Evidence 12 Sources

Research Statistics

Total Sources
12
Human Studies
1
Preclinical
11
Evidence Rating Low Evidence
Research Depth 2/5
Global Coverage 2/5
Mechanism Plausibility 3/5
Overall Score
2.5 /5

Preclinical NAD+ metabolic data is promising but only 1 human study available.

Last reviewed February 2026 How we rate →
!
Evidence Level
low
Not approved for human use by any regulatory agency
Limited human clinical trial data
Consult a healthcare provider before use
Not FDA Approved WADA Prohibited

Research Dossier

01 / 7

Overview

What is 5-Amino-1MQ and what does the research say?

Identity
Also Known As
5-Amino-1-Methylquinolinium • NNMT Inhibitor
Type
Small molecule (methylquinolinium derivative)
Length
0 amino acids
Weight
173.21 Da
Sequence
N/A (small molecule)
Molecular Structure
Hydrophobic
Polar
Positive
Negative

Mechanism of Action

The proposed mechanisms of 5-Amino-1MQ are based entirely on animal and in vitro studies. No human mechanistic data exists.

How It Works (Simplified)

5-Amino-1MQ acts by blocking NNMT, an enzyme that depletes important cellular resources:

1
NNMT Inhibition

Blocks NNMT enzyme activity, preventing it from consuming NAD+ precursors and SAM (the universal methyl donor).

2
NAD+ Elevation

Preserves nicotinamide for NAD+ synthesis, increasing cellular NAD+ levels especially in adipose tissue.

3
Sirtuin Activation

Higher NAD+ activates sirtuins (SIRT1-7), master regulators of metabolism, mitochondrial function, and energy expenditure.

4
Metabolic Enhancement

In mice, leads to increased energy expenditure, adipose browning, and weight loss without reduced food intake.

Scientific Pathways

NNMT Inhibition Pathway (Target Engagement)

5-Amino-1MQ → Binds NNMT active site → Blocks nicotinamide methylation

                                      Nicotinamide preserved for NAD+ synthesis

NAD+ / Sirtuin Pathway (Metabolic Effects)

NNMT blocked → NAD+ levels increase → Sirtuin activation → Enhanced metabolism

            SAM preserved → Improved methylation capacity

Thermogenic Pathway (Energy Expenditure)

Sirtuin activation → PGC-1a upregulation → UCP1 expression → Adipose browning

                                                        Increased energy expenditure

Key Research: Neelakantan H et al. (UTMB, 2018) demonstrated 7% weight reduction in diet-induced obese mice with 11 days of treatment. PMID:29155253

Important Limitations

  • Zero human trials - All efficacy data is from mice only
  • Translation to human adipose tissue metabolism is unconfirmed
  • Human pharmacokinetics (absorption, half-life, dosing) completely unknown
  • NNMT expressed in multiple tissues (liver, brain, muscle) - systemic effects uncharacterized
  • Potential cardiovascular concerns from vascular NNMT inhibition (NNMT may protect endothelium)
  • No long-term safety data in any species

Evidence-Chained Benefits

Evidence-Chained Benefits

Research findings linked to mechanisms and clinical outcomes

Mechanism NNMT inhibition preserving NAD+ and SAM in adipose tissue
Supported 4 direct studies
Benefit may reduce body weight and adiposity
Evidence Level
Low
4 Animal
3 In Vitro
Mechanism NAD+ elevation leading to enhanced sirtuin activity
Emerging 3 direct studies
Benefit suggested to improve metabolic function and insulin sensitivity
Evidence Level
Very Low
3 Animal
2 In Vitro
Mechanism Enhanced adipocyte energy expenditure and thermogenesis
Emerging 2 direct studies
Benefit suggested to increase metabolic rate and fat oxidation
Evidence Level
Very Low
2 Animal
2 In Vitro
Mechanism Confidence
Established
Supported
Emerging
Evidence Level
High
Moderate
Low
Very Low

What to Expect

Timeline based on observations from published studies. Individual responses may vary.

Based on preclinical data: NNMT inhibition should begin immediately upon administration. Mouse studies used 11-day treatment periods. No human pharmacokinetic data available to predict onset.

In mouse studies, measurable weight reduction (~7%) observed by end of 11-day treatment. NAD+ elevation in adipose tissue documented. Human timeline completely unknown.

No long-term preclinical studies available. Sustained effects, tolerance development, and long-term metabolic adaptations are uncharacterized.

Week 8+

Completely unknown. Long-term safety and efficacy data do not exist in any species. Chronic NNMT inhibition effects unstudied.

Research-Based Observations

This timeline reflects observations from published clinical and preclinical studies. Individual responses may vary significantly. This is not a guarantee of effects or a dosing schedule. Consult qualified healthcare providers for personalized guidance.

Quality Checklist

Visual indicators to help evaluate 5-Amino-1MQ product quality

Good Signs (6 indicators)
White to off-white crystalline powder
Dissolves readily in water (cationic, water-soluble compound)
Clear, colorless solution after dissolution
Certificate of analysis (COA) showing >98% purity
Third-party HPLC and mass spectrometry verification
Molecular weight confirmed at 173.21 g/mol
Warning Signs (5 indicators)
Slightly off-white or cream-colored powder
Slow dissolution or incomplete solubility
COA from manufacturer only without independent verification
Purity listed below 98% but above 95%
No identity confirmation (MS or NMR)
Bad Signs (6 indicators)
Yellow, brown, or otherwise discolored powder
Visible particles or cloudiness in solution
Insoluble residue after attempted dissolution
No COA provided or COA appears fraudulent
Strong unusual odor
Hygroscopic clumping suggesting moisture contamination
Positive quality indicator
Requires evaluation
Potential quality issue

For Research Evaluation Only

These quality indicators are general guidelines based on typical peptide characteristics. Professional laboratory testing (HPLC, mass spectrometry) provides definitive quality verification. This checklist is for initial visual evaluation only.

Peptide Interactions

Known and theoretical interactions when combining 5-Amino-1MQ with other peptides. Based on published research and mechanistic considerations.

Synergistic
Compatible
Caution
Avoid

Nmn

Synergistic
Synergistic

Theoretical synergy: NMN provides NAD+ precursor while 5-Amino-1MQ preserves NAD+ by blocking NNMT consumption. Both aim to elevate NAD+ through complementary mechanisms. No combined studies available.

Similar theoretical synergy as NMN. NR provides substrate for NAD+ synthesis while 5-Amino-1MQ reduces NAD+ depletion. Combined effects unstudied.

Different mechanisms of action (5-Amino-1MQ targets NNMT/NAD+ pathway vs AOD-9604's lipolytic effects). No interaction studies available; both target metabolic pathways through distinct routes.

Both activate sirtuin pathways - resveratrol directly, 5-Amino-1MQ indirectly via NAD+ elevation. Theoretically complementary but unstudied.

Both target metabolic and weight management pathways. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist affecting appetite/insulin while 5-Amino-1MQ targets cellular NAD+ metabolism. No interaction data exists.

Research Note: Interaction data is based on published literature, mechanistic understanding, and theoretical considerations. Most peptide combinations lack direct clinical study. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare providers.

References

12 Sources
1 Human
11 Preclinical

Full reference list available on request. All citations link to PubMed for verification.

Methodology Note

This dossier synthesizes available evidence from peer-reviewed literature, regulatory documents, and clinical trial registries. Evidence strength ratings follow a modified GRADE approach.

For complete methodology details, see our Methodology page.

Important Disclaimer

This dossier is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.

Get Research Alerts

New dossiers and major study summaries delivered to your inbox. Evidence-graded, citation-backed research you can trust.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Compare 5-Amino-1MQ

5-Amino-1MQ Calculators

Related Peptides

Metabolic

Amycretin

NNC0487-0111, Oral Amycretin, Subcutaneous Amycretin

A novel single-molecule dual GLP-1/amylin receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk. Unlike CagriSema (a fixed-dose combination), amycretin is a unified peptide that activates both pathways. Phase 1 trials showed superior weight loss signals versus semaglutide, with both oral and subcutaneous formulations in development.

#metabolic
Metabolic

Cagrilintide

AM833, NN9838, ZP8396

A long-acting amylin analog developed by Novo Nordisk for weight management. Currently in Phase 3 trials as CagriSema (combination with semaglutide). Phase 2 data shows up to 22-25% weight loss when combined with semaglutide, potentially exceeding tirzepatide efficacy.

#metabolic
Metabolic

CagriSema

Cagrilintide-Semaglutide, NNC0174-0833

A fixed-dose combination of cagrilintide (amylin analog) and semaglutide (GLP-1 agonist) for chronic weight management. Phase 3 REDEFINE trials demonstrate 20-23% weight loss at 68 weeks. NDA submitted to FDA December 2025. First GLP-1/amylin combination therapy.

#metabolic
Metabolic

CT-388

RG-6912

A dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist acquired by Roche through the $2.7 billion Carmot Therapeutics acquisition in 2024. Phase 1b results showed 18.8% placebo-adjusted weight loss at 24 weeks, positioning it as a competitive obesity therapeutic with a mechanism similar to tirzepatide.

#metabolic
Metabolic

Liraglutide

Victoza, Saxenda, NN2211

The first long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist, FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza, 2010) and chronic weight management (Saxenda, 2014). Pioneered the therapeutic class with proven cardiovascular benefits in the landmark LEADER trial.

#metabolic
Metabolic

MariTide

AMG 133, maridebart cafraglutide

A bispecific peptide-antibody conjugate combining GLP-1 receptor agonism with GIP receptor antagonism. Unique mechanism opposite to tirzepatide. Phase 2 showed ~20% weight loss at 52 weeks with once-monthly dosing. MARITIME Phase 3 program initiated.

#metabolic

Related Content