A New Vitamin Called PQQ

In April 2003, researchers in Japan reported the discovery of a new vitamin called pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ). Though PQQ is an already-known compound, discovered in 1979, the researchers found that mice lacking in PQQ were less fertile than those with adequate supplies of this nutrient.

According to MedlinePlus medical encyclopedia, vitamins are a group of substances essential for normal metabolism; growth and development; and regulation of cell function.

Vitamins work together with enzymes, co-factors (substances that assist enzymes) and other substances. PQQ is considered a vitamin for mice, not humans but researchers say PQQ is also essential to humans.

PQQ may also be considered a member of the vitamin B group by its molecular nature and function.

Thus far, only some bacteria is known to produce PQQ. Otherwise, food sources containing this vitamin include parsley, papaya, kiwi, green tea, natto and green peppers.

Source : “PQQ is the first new vitamin in 55 years” Lab for Molecular Dynamics of Mental Disorders Brain Science Institute, RIKEN

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