1Quick Summary
At a Glance
5-Amino-1MQ (5-amino-1-methylquinolinium) is a low-molecular-weight, membrane-permeable small molecule that functions as a potent and selective inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) — a cytosolic enzyme overexpressed in adipose tissue, liver, and skeletal muscle that is implicated in metabolic dysregulation, epigenetic remodeling, and energy homeostasis.
By blocking NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ simultaneously preserves intracellular nicotinamide (a NAD+ precursor) and S-adenosylmethionine (SAM, the universal methyl donor), producing dual downstream effects: elevated NAD+ salvage pathway activity and restored methyl-donor availability. Preclinical studies in diet-induced obese (DIO) mouse models demonstrated significant reductions in body weight, white adipose tissue mass, and plasma cholesterol — without suppressing food intake.
Supplied as a ≥98% HPLC-verified powder, 5-Amino-1MQ is intended exclusively for in vitro and animal-model laboratory research. It is not approved for human consumption, diagnosis, or therapeutic use.
2Basic Physicochemical Data
The following specifications define the identity, purity, and physical characteristics of our 5-Amino-1MQ powder. Each batch is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting HPLC purity, identity confirmation, and residual solvent screening.
| Technical Specifications — 5-Amino-1MQ | |
|---|---|
| Product Name | 5-Amino-1MQ (5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium) |
| CAS Number | 42464-96-0 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₀H₁₁N₂⁺ (free base cation); C₁₀H₁₁IN₂ (iodide salt) |
| Molecular Weight | ~159.21 g/mol (free base); ~286.11 g/mol (iodide salt) |
| Chemical Class | Methylquinolinium derivative (small molecule, non-peptide) |
| Appearance | Off-white to pale yellow crystalline powder |
| Purity | ≥98% (HPLC) |
| Charge State | Monocationic (quaternary ammonium) |
| Solubility | Soluble in water (~10–15 mg/mL at pH 7.2–7.4), DMSO, dilute acids; moderately soluble in ethanol |
| pH-Dependent Solubility | Enhanced in slightly acidic aqueous conditions |
| Form | Lyophilized / crystalline powder |
| Storage Conditions | −20°C, desiccated, protected from light |
| Shelf Life | 24 months when stored as directed |
| Intended Use | Laboratory research only (in vitro / animal models) |
5-Amino-1MQ is supplied as the iodide salt in standard formulation. For research teams concerned about long-term iodine exposure in extended dosing protocols, a chloride salt variant is available upon request. Both forms retain identical NNMT inhibitory activity; the counterion selection is driven by formulation compatibility rather than pharmacological differences.
3Mechanism of Action
5-Amino-1MQ exerts its biological effects through selective competitive inhibition of NNMT (nicotinamide N-methyltransferase), with a reported IC₅₀ of approximately 1.2 µM. Understanding this mechanism requires examining what NNMT does and why inhibiting it produces such broad metabolic consequences.
3.1 The NNMT Enzyme and Its Dual Metabolic Role
NNMT is a cytosolic enzyme predominantly expressed in the liver, white adipose tissue (WAT), and skeletal muscle. It catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group from S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) — the cell's universal methyl donor — to nicotinamide (NAM, vitamin B3), producing two metabolites: 1-methylnicotinamide (1-MNA) and S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH).
This single enzymatic reaction intersects two critical metabolic axes simultaneously:
- NAD+ axis: By methylating nicotinamide into 1-MNA, NNMT effectively removes NAM from the NAD+ salvage pathway. Nicotinamide is the direct precursor for NAD+ biosynthesis via the salvage route, and its depletion by NNMT reduces the cellular NAD+ pool.
- Methylation axis: By consuming SAM as a methyl donor, NNMT reduces the availability of SAM for histone methylation, DNA methylation, and other essential epigenetic modifications. Elevated NNMT activity effectively "wastes" methyl groups on nicotinamide methylation rather than directing them toward regulatory methylation events.
3.2 Downstream Effects of NNMT Inhibition
When 5-Amino-1MQ blocks NNMT activity, the following downstream cascades are observed in preclinical models:
- Increased intracellular NAD+: By preventing the methylation and clearance of nicotinamide, 5-Amino-1MQ preserves the NAM pool available for NAD+ biosynthesis via the salvage pathway. In vitro studies using 3T3-L1 adipocytes confirmed that NNMT inhibition reduces intracellular 1-MNA and significantly elevates NAD+ levels. Higher NAD+ availability supports the activity of NAD+-dependent enzymes, particularly sirtuins (SIRT1, SIRT3), which regulate mitochondrial biogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, and cellular stress resistance.
- Restored SAM availability: By reducing NNMT-mediated SAM consumption, 5-Amino-1MQ replenishes the cellular methyl-donor pool. Adequate SAM is essential for histone and DNA methylation — the epigenetic mechanisms that regulate gene expression programs governing adipogenesis, cellular differentiation, and metabolic enzyme transcription. Restoring SAM:SAH ratios may partially reverse the epigenetic dysregulation associated with obesity.
- Suppression of lipogenesis: In adipocyte models, NNMT inhibition suppresses lipid accumulation and adipogenic gene expression, consistent with a metabolic shift from fat storage to fat oxidation — the expected consequence of elevated NAD+/sirtuin activity.
- Improved insulin sensitivity: Independent studies using structurally distinct NNMT inhibitors (e.g., JBSNF-000088) corroborated that NNMT inhibition improves insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis in metabolic disease animal models, providing orthogonal validation of NNMT as a therapeutic target.
3.3 Selectivity Profile
Structure–activity relationship studies by Neelakantan et al. demonstrated that methylquinolinium analogs like 5-Amino-1MQ are highly selective for NNMT and do not significantly inhibit related methyltransferases or metabolic enzymes, including DNMT1 (DNA methyltransferase 1), COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase), or NAMPT (the rate-limiting enzyme in the NAD+ salvage pathway). This selectivity confirms that the observed metabolic effects are specifically mediated through NNMT inhibition rather than off-target activity — a critical consideration for research reproducibility.
Key Point: Unlike NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) that add to the NAD+ pool, 5-Amino-1MQ prevents the depletion of NAD+ by blocking NNMT-mediated nicotinamide clearance. These mechanisms are complementary — addressing both production and conservation of NAD+ precursors simultaneously.
4Preclinical Efficacy
The following section summarizes key findings from published preclinical studies. All data originate from animal or in vitro models. No human clinical trials have been published or registered as of July 2026.
4.1 Landmark DIO Mouse Study (Neelakantan et al., 2018)
The foundational preclinical study was conducted by researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine and published in Biochemical Pharmacology. In this study, diet-induced obese (DIO) C57BL/6 mice received 5-Amino-1MQ at 20 mg/kg via intraperitoneal injection, three times daily, for 11 days. Key findings included:
- Significant body weight reduction compared to vehicle-treated controls.
- Decreased white adipose tissue (WAT) mass and reduced adipocyte size.
- Lowered plasma total cholesterol levels.
- No reduction in food intake — weight loss was driven by metabolic changes, not appetite suppression. This is a critical distinction from centrally acting anti-obesity agents.
- No observable adverse effects during the 11-day treatment period.
The "eat the same, gain less fat" phenotype is mechanistically distinct from appetite-suppressing compounds and represents the hallmark finding that has driven subsequent research interest in NNMT as a metabolic drug target.
4.2 Independent Corroboration (Kannt et al., 2018)
A separate research group published findings on JBSNF-000088, a structurally distinct NNMT inhibitor (not 5-Amino-1MQ, but targeting the same enzyme). This compound produced insulin sensitization, improved glucose modulation, and body weight reduction in animal models of metabolic disease. While the compound differed chemically, the convergence of outcomes from independent labs provided robust orthogonal validation that NNMT is a legitimate therapeutic target for metabolic disorders.
4.3 In Vitro Adipocyte Studies
Cellular studies using 3T3-L1 adipocyte models have consistently demonstrated that NNMT inhibition by 5-Amino-1MQ and related compounds:
- Reduces intracellular 1-MNA levels (confirming on-target NNMT inhibition).
- Increases intracellular NAD+ concentrations.
- Upregulates sirtuin activity (particularly SIRT1 and SIRT3).
- Suppresses adipogenic gene expression and lipid droplet formation.
- Enhances markers of mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative metabolism.
4.4 Skeletal Muscle and Satellite Cell Research
Emerging research has investigated NNMT expression in skeletal muscle tissue and its potential influence on satellite cell biology and muscle regeneration. While these studies are at an earlier stage than the adipose-focused work, initial findings suggest that NNMT may play a regulatory role in muscle energy metabolism — opening additional research avenues for 5-Amino-1MQ beyond fat tissue applications. Specifically, NNMT upregulation in muscle has been linked to altered methylation patterns that affect mitochondrial function and oxidative fiber type composition, both of which influence whole-body energy expenditure and exercise capacity.
4.5 Epigenetic and Cancer Research Implications
Beyond metabolic disease, NNMT has attracted attention in oncology research. NNMT is overexpressed in several cancer types — including pancreatic, colorectal, and gastric cancers — where it contributes to epigenetic dysregulation, altered methyl donor metabolism, and immune evasion. By depleting SAM, elevated NNMT activity can hypomethylate promoter regions and activate oncogenic gene programs. Researchers investigating the tumor microenvironment have begun exploring NNMT inhibitors like 5-Amino-1MQ as molecular tools to study how restoring SAM availability and epigenetic balance affects cancer cell behavior in vitro. These applications remain at an exploratory stage but represent a growing area of interest that extends the compound's research relevance beyond obesity and metabolic syndrome.
4.6 Summary of Evidence Level
| Application Area | Evidence Level | Model System |
|---|---|---|
| Obesity / Weight Reduction | Strong (preclinical) | DIO mice (in vivo) |
| Adipose Tissue Metabolism | Strong (preclinical) | 3T3-L1 adipocytes (in vitro) |
| Insulin Sensitivity | Moderate (indirect) | NNMT inhibitor class (in vivo) |
| Glucose Homeostasis | Moderate (indirect) | NNMT inhibitor class (in vivo) |
| Skeletal Muscle Biology | Early (exploratory) | In vitro / ex vivo |
| Human Clinical Data | None published | — |
5Usage & Storage Protocols
Proper handling of 5-Amino-1MQ powder is essential to preserve compound integrity and ensure reproducible experimental outcomes. The following protocols are based on published research methodologies and standard laboratory practices for small-molecule enzyme inhibitors.
5.1 Storage Conditions
- Long-term storage: Store the lyophilized powder at −20°C, desiccated, and protected from light. Under these conditions, the compound is stable for up to 24 months.
- Short-term handling: Powder may be weighed at room temperature but should be returned to −20°C storage promptly. Minimize cumulative ambient exposure to prevent moisture uptake and oxidative degradation.
- Desiccation: Always store with desiccant packets. The compound is hygroscopic — moisture absorption can compromise purity and alter weighing accuracy.
5.2 Reconstitution & Solution Preparation
- Aqueous solubility: 5-Amino-1MQ dissolves in water at approximately 10–15 mg/mL at physiological pH (7.2–7.4). Solubility is enhanced in slightly acidic conditions (e.g., 0.1 N HCl or acetate buffer pH 5.0).
- Organic co-solvents: For higher concentrations (up to 40–50 mg/mL), use DMSO at 5–10% v/v as a co-solvent. PEG-400 at 10–20% v/v is an alternative when DMSO's oxidative properties may interfere with metabolic endpoints.
- Stock solutions: Prepare concentrated stock solutions, then aliquot into single-use volumes to avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles. Store aliquots at −20°C.
- Sterile filtration: Filter-sterilize solutions using 0.22 µm cellulose acetate or PES filters immediately prior to use in cell-based assays.
- Stability in solution: Solutions that appear clear at preparation may develop microcrystalline precipitation within 24–72 hours if concentrations exceed the aqueous solubility ceiling. Monitor visually before each use.
5.3 Handling Precautions
⚠️ Important: 5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule inhibitor with ionic character. Buffer composition, ionic strength, and pH in assay systems may influence its behavior (ion pairing, non-specific binding). Always include appropriate vehicle controls and dose–response curves to exclude non-specific effects.
Use of light, elevated temperature, or prolonged aqueous exposure may degrade or oxidize the compound. Prepare solutions fresh when possible, or store stocks under protective conditions (dark, −20°C, inert atmosphere if available).
5.4 Common Research Concentrations
| Application | Typical Concentration | Vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| In vitro cell assays | 1–50 µM | Culture medium (≤0.1% DMSO final) |
| In vivo (mouse, s.c.) | 10–25 mg/mL | Saline or bacteriostatic water |
| In vivo (mouse, i.p.) | 5–10 mg/mL | 10% DMSO in saline |
| In vivo (rat, oral) | 20–50 mg/mL | Aqueous suspension / PEG-400 |
6Competitor Comparison
5-Amino-1MQ occupies a unique position within the landscape of metabolic and NAD+-related research compounds. The table below compares it against related compounds frequently used in NAD+ metabolism and anti-obesity research.
| Parameter | 5-Amino-1MQ | NMN | NR (Nicotinamide Riboside) | JBSNF-000088 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compound Class | Small molecule (quinolinium) | Nucleotide | Nucleotide | Small molecule |
| Primary Target | NNMT (inhibitor) | NAD+ precursor | NAD+ precursor | NNMT (inhibitor) |
| Mechanism | Prevents NAD+ depletion | Adds to NAD+ pool | Adds to NAD+ pool | Prevents NAD+ depletion |
| Cell Permeability | High (small molecule) | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Epigenetic Effect | Yes (SAM preservation) | No | No | Yes |
| Appetite Suppression | No (metabolic mechanism) | No | No | No |
| Published In Vivo Data | Yes (DIO mice) | Yes (multiple species) | Yes (multiple species) | Yes |
| Human Clinical Data | None | Limited | Yes | None |
| Molecular Weight | ~159 g/mol | ~335 g/mol | ~255 g/mol | ~209 g/mol |
| Stability (powder, −20°C) | 24 months | 12–18 months | 12–24 months | 12–18 months |
| Cost per Research Unit | Moderate | High | Moderate–High | High |
Strategic Insight: 5-Amino-1MQ and NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) are complementary, not competing. NMN/NR increase NAD+ production, while 5-Amino-1MQ prevents NNMT-driven NAD+ depletion. Research teams investigating comprehensive NAD+ metabolism strategies may benefit from studying these compounds in combination, as they address both the "source" and "sink" of the NAD+ pool simultaneously.
7Procurement Advantages
Sourcing high-quality 5-Amino-1MQ requires a supplier that prioritizes analytical rigor, batch consistency, and transparent documentation. Our 5-Amino-1MQ powder (≥98% HPLC) is manufactured and tested to meet the exacting standards of academic, pharmaceutical, and contract research laboratory environments.
Verified Purity — Every Batch
Each production batch undergoes HPLC analysis confirming ≥98% purity, accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting identity (by MS/IR), purity, and residual solvent screening. Full batch traceability from synthesis to shipment.
Bulk & Custom Packaging
Available in research-scale (5 mg–1 g) and bulk quantities (multi-gram to kilogram). Custom aliquoting and packaging configurations are available for institutional procurement and multi-site studies requiring standardized batch material.
Cold-Chain Logistics
All shipments include temperature-controlled packaging with cold packs to maintain compound integrity during transit. Stability data supports room-temperature transit up to 7 days, but cold-chain options are provided for international and long-distance orders.
Batch-to-Batch Consistency
Standardized synthesis protocols and in-process quality controls ensure minimal variability between batches — critical for longitudinal studies requiring consistent material across multiple experimental phases.
Global Compliance Documentation
Shipping documentation includes SDS (Safety Data Sheet), COA, and certificate of origin. Harmonized tariff codes and customs documentation are provided for international research institutions.
Competitive Pricing Structure
Volume-based tiered pricing reduces per-unit cost for bulk procurement. Institutional accounts receive additional benefits including net-30 payment terms and dedicated technical support for protocol optimization.
Both Salt Forms Available
Standard iodide salt (CAS 42464-96-0) and iodine-free chloride salt for extended-dosing protocols where chronic iodine exposure is a concern. Same NNMT inhibitory potency, different formulation profiles.
Rapid Fulfillment
In-stock inventory enables same-day or next-business-day dispatch for standard pack sizes. Bulk and custom orders typically ship within 5–7 business days. Global express shipping options available.
8Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is 5-Amino-1MQ and what does it do?
5-Amino-1MQ (5-amino-1-methylquinolinium) is a small-molecule research compound that selectively inhibits nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme that depletes both NAD+ precursors and cellular methyl donors. In preclinical animal models, NNMT inhibition led to reduced fat mass, improved metabolic markers, and preserved NAD+ levels — all without suppressing food intake.
Q: Is 5-Amino-1MQ a peptide?
No. Despite being commonly sold alongside peptide products, 5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule quinolinium derivative, not a peptide. It has no amino-acid sequence. Its small molecular weight (~159 g/mol free base) and membrane-permeable character distinguish it from peptide-based research compounds.
Q: What purity grade is offered?
Our 5-Amino-1MQ powder is verified at ≥98% purity by HPLC. Each batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis documenting HPLC purity, identity confirmation (mass spectrometry / IR spectroscopy), and residual solvent screening.
Q: How should I store 5-Amino-1MQ powder?
Store the powder at −20°C, desiccated, and protected from light. Under these conditions, the compound is stable for up to 24 months. Weigh at room temperature but return to cold storage promptly. For reconstituted solutions, aliquot into single-use volumes and store at −20°C to avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles.
Q: Is there any human clinical data available?
As of July 2026, no human clinical trials have been published or registered for 5-Amino-1MQ. All efficacy data derive from preclinical animal and in vitro studies. The compound is sold exclusively for laboratory research purposes and is not approved for human consumption, diagnosis, or therapeutic use.
Q: Can 5-Amino-1MQ be combined with NAD+ precursors like NMN or NR?
Mechanistically, yes — they are complementary. NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) increase NAD+ production by adding to the precursor pool, while 5-Amino-1MQ prevents NNMT-driven depletion of nicotinamide. Together they address both the "source" and "sink" of NAD+. However, combination studies should be designed with appropriate controls, and researchers should be aware that no published clinical data exist for such combinations.
Q: What solvents can I use to dissolve 5-Amino-1MQ?
The compound is soluble in water (~10–15 mg/mL at neutral pH), DMSO, dilute acids (e.g., 0.1 N HCl), and moderately soluble in ethanol. For concentrations above 20 mg/mL, add DMSO at 5–10% v/v or PEG-400 at 10–20% v/v as a co-solvent. Always filter-sterilize (0.22 µm) solutions before use in cell-based assays.
Q: What is the difference between the iodide and chloride salt forms?
Both forms have identical NNMT inhibitory activity. The iodide salt (CAS 42464-96-0) is the standard form used in published research. The chloride salt eliminates iodine accumulation concerns, making it preferable for extended or high-dose in vivo protocols where chronic iodine exposure could confound thyroid-related endpoints.
Q: Do you provide bulk pricing for institutional orders?
Yes. We offer tiered volume pricing for orders from multi-gram to kilogram scale. Institutional accounts may qualify for net-30 payment terms, dedicated technical support, and custom packaging configurations. Contact our procurement team for a quote tailored to your research requirements.
Q: What regulatory status does 5-Amino-1MQ hold?
5-Amino-1MQ is not approved by the FDA or any other regulatory body for any therapeutic use. It is classified as a research chemical. Under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List, it falls under S0 (Non-Approved Substances), meaning it is prohibited at all times for athletes subject to anti-doping regulations. Researchers and institutions are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable local, national, and institutional regulations governing the acquisition, handling, and use of non-approved research compounds.
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