Molecular data
| Molecular formula | C10H10N2 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 158.19 Da |
| CAS / identifier | 4213-45-0 |
| Physical form | Lyophilized powder |
| Available sizes | 50mg |
How it works
Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase Blockade
5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule competitive inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme that catalyzes the methylation of nicotinamide using S-adenosyl methionine (SAM). NNMT has been reported as overexpressed in adipose tissue in obesity, and its inhibition has been explored as a strategy to modulate methyl group flux and NAD+ precursor availability.
- Competitive inhibitor of NNMT enzyme activity
- Lower 1-methylnicotinamide (MNA) production measured
- Preserves SAM for other methylation reactions
NAD+ Precursor Salvage Pathway Modulation
By blocking NNMT-mediated consumption of nicotinamide, 5-Amino-1MQ redirects nicotinamide back into the NAD+ salvage pathway. Preclinical studies demonstrate elevated intracellular NAD+ levels following NNMT inhibition, suggesting a role in metabolic energy regulation.
- Redirects nicotinamide into NAD+ salvage pathway
- Elevates intracellular NAD+ (~1.6× in preclinical models)
- Modulates NAMPT-dependent NAD+ biosynthesis
Adipocyte Energy Metabolism
In diet-induced obese (DIO) mouse models, NNMT inhibition with 5-Amino-1MQ was associated with reduced white adipose tissue mass without affecting food intake, suggesting changes in energy expenditure rather than appetite suppression. Researchers observed upregulation of metabolic gene expression in adipocytes.
- Reduced white adipose tissue mass in DIO mouse models
- No change in food intake observed
- Altered adipocyte gene expression patterns
What the research shows
Adipocyte & Metabolic Models
In diet-induced obese mouse models, white adipose tissue mass ~35% below control was recorded following NNMT inhibition with 5-Amino-1MQ, with food intake unchanged - pointing to energy expenditure rather than appetite.
NAD+ Salvage Pathway
5-Amino-1MQ preserves nicotinamide for NAD+ biosynthesis by blocking NNMT-catalyzed methylation, elevating intracellular NAD+ in adipocyte cell lines.
SAM Methyl Donor Pool
NNMT consumes SAM as a methyl donor, competing with DNA and histone methyltransferases. NNMT inhibition may influence epigenetic programming in metabolic tissues.
Glucose Uptake Models
NNMT knockdown in adipocytes was associated with changes in insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake markers in preclinical in vitro models, which is why NNMT is studied in metabolic regulation.
Specification
| Chemical Name | 5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 4213-45-0 |
| Molecular Weight | 158.19 Da |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₀H₁₀N₂ |
| Target | Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) |
| Mechanism | Competitive NNMT enzyme inhibitor |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Purity | ≥99% (HPLC verified) |
| Testing | Third-party HPLC, Mass Spec, Endotoxin |
| Storage | -20°C, protect from light |
| COA | Included with every order |
Frequently asked questions
What is 5-Amino-1MQ?
5-Amino-1MQ (5-amino-1-methylquinolinium) is a small-molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme that methylates nicotinamide using S-adenosyl methionine (SAM). NNMT is upregulated in adipose tissue in obesity, and its inhibition is studied as a potential strategy to modulate NAD+ metabolism and metabolic gene expression. It is used exclusively as a research tool compound.
How does NNMT inhibition affect NAD+ levels?
NNMT metabolizes nicotinamide into 1-methylnicotinamide (MNA), diverting it away from the NAD+ salvage pathway. When NNMT is inhibited by compounds like 5-Amino-1MQ, more nicotinamide becomes available for conversion to NAD+ via NAMPT. Preclinical studies report approximately 1.6× increases in intracellular NAD+ following NNMT inhibition in adipocyte models.
What has been measured in diet-induced obesity models?
In diet-induced obese (DIO) mouse models, NNMT inhibition led to approximately 35% reduction in white adipose tissue mass compared to controls. Importantly, food intake remained unchanged in treated animals, suggesting the compound's effects relate to energy expenditure pathways rather than appetite. These findings have not been replicated in human trials.
Is 5-Amino-1MQ the same as NAD+ supplements?
No. 5-Amino-1MQ is a mechanistically distinct research compound. Rather than directly supplying NAD+ precursors (like NMN or NR), it works by blocking an enzyme that consumes nicotinamide, theoretically preserving the substrate pool for endogenous NAD+ production. Its effects on overall NAD+ biology are still being characterized in preclinical research.
Is 5-Amino-1MQ approved for any use?
No. 5-Amino-1MQ has not been approved by the FDA or any regulatory agency for human use. No human clinical trials have been completed. It is sold exclusively as a research tool compound for in vitro laboratory use and is not intended for human consumption.
How should 5-Amino-1MQ be stored for research use?
Store lyophilized 5-Amino-1MQ at -20°C and protect from light. For in vitro studies, it is typically dissolved in DMSO or aqueous buffer depending on the experimental protocol.
For laboratory research use only. Not a drug, supplement, or medical product; not for human or animal use. All findings referenced are from published preclinical/laboratory research.