MECHANISM OF ACTION
5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium (5A1MQ) is a selective inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme highly expressed in adipose tissue and implicated in obesity. NNMT inhibition prevents the methylation of nicotinamide, increasing intracellular NAD+ and S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) availability. In adipose tissue: reduces fat cell size and adipogenesis. In CNS context: NNMT is also expressed in brain regions involved in dopamine metabolism, making 5A1MQ relevant for cognitive research. Unlike direct NAD+ precursors, 5A1MQ acts upstream to redirect metabolic flux.
RESEARCH APPLICATIONS
- Adipose NNMT inhibition and fat mass reduction
- NAD+ pathway upregulation (indirect, via NNMT blockade)
- Cognitive and dopaminergic metabolism research
- Metabolic syndrome models
- Adipose tissue remodelling research protocols
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
Fat Cell Reduction via NNMT Inhibition
2019Mouse models showed 5A1MQ treatment reduced fat cell size, weight gain, and adipose tissue mass on high-fat diet without systemic toxicity.
Ref: Neelakantan et al., JACS
SAM and NAD+ Axis
2013NNMT inhibition increased intracellular SAM and NAD+ levels, activating SIRT1 and PGC-1α - metabolic regulators relevant to longevity and energy metabolism.
Ref: Ulanovskaya et al., Nature Chem Biol
RESEARCH PROTOCOL NOTES
Chemical Identity
Storage & Stability
Store at 2–8°C. Small molecule - more stable than peptides. Protect from moisture and light.
Regulatory Status
Research compound. No regulatory approval. Not on WADA prohibited list. SAHPRA: unscheduled research compound.