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    5-Amino-1MQ: Complete Research Guide & NNMT Inhibitor Profile

    Comprehensive guide to 5-Amino-1MQ (5A1MQ), a small molecule NNMT inhibitor studied for metabolic research applications. Chemical properties & research data.

    ChemVerify Research Team
    8 min read
    Published February 21, 2026
    5-Amino-1MQ: Complete Research Guide & NNMT Inhibitor Profile — featured illustration

    What Is 5-Amino-1MQ?

    TL;DR: 5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule methylquinolinium compound (MW ~173.21 Da) that functions as a selective NNMT inhibitor. Research-grade material requires ≥98% HPLC purity with LC-MS identity confirmation. Unlike peptides, this is a synthetic heterocyclic organic compound available as a hydrochloride salt. Compare verified 5-Amino-1MQ pricing across vendors at chemverify.com.

    Last verified: March 2026 | Data accuracy confirmed by ChemVerify Editorial Team

    5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium (5-Amino-1MQ), also known as 5A1MQ, is a small molecule compound that has garnered significant attention in metabolic research laboratories. This quinolinium derivative functions as a selective inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme involved in cellular energy metabolism and NAD+ biosynthesis pathways.

    With a molecular weight of 173.21 Da, 5-Amino-1MQ represents a relatively simple chemical structure that has demonstrated potent biological activity in laboratory settings. The compound's systematic name reflects its quinoline-based structure with an amino group substitution at the 5-position and a methylated nitrogen atom, giving it unique pharmacological properties that distinguish it from other metabolic modulators.

    Research laboratories typically work with 5-Amino-1MQ in its high-purity form (≥98%) to ensure consistent and reproducible experimental results. The compound's water solubility and stability profile make it suitable for various in vitro and in vivo research applications focusing on metabolic pathways and cellular energy homeostasis.

    For laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption. This article is intended for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.

    Research Background & Key Studies

    The development of 5-Amino-1MQ as a research compound stems from the growing understanding of NNMT's role in cellular metabolism. Initial studies identified NNMT as a key enzyme in the regulation of cellular NAD+ levels and energy homeostasis, leading researchers to investigate selective inhibitors that could modulate these pathways.

    Laboratory studies have demonstrated that 5-Amino-1MQ exhibits selective inhibition of NNMT activity with IC50 values in the nanomolar range. Research findings suggest that this compound can effectively reduce NNMT enzyme activity in cellular models, leading to alterations in cellular NAD+ levels and metabolic flux patterns.

    Animal model studies have investigated the effects of 5-Amino-1MQ administration on various metabolic parameters. Research indicates that NNMT inhibition through 5-Amino-1MQ treatment can influence body weight regulation, glucose metabolism, and lipid homeostasis in laboratory settings. These findings have contributed to a better understanding of NNMT's role in metabolic diseases and aging processes.

    Recent research has also explored the compound's effects on cellular senescence and longevity pathways. Studies suggest that 5-Amino-1MQ may influence cellular aging processes through its modulation of NAD+ metabolism, though these effects require further investigation in controlled laboratory environments.

    Mechanism of Action

    The primary mechanism of action for 5-Amino-1MQ involves the selective inhibition of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), a cytoplasmic enzyme that catalyzes the methylation of nicotinamide using S-adenosyl methionine as a methyl donor. This enzymatic reaction produces 1-methylnicotinamide and S-adenosyl homocysteine, playing a crucial role in cellular NAD+ homeostasis.

    NNMT Enzyme Inhibition

    5-Amino-1MQ binds to the active site of NNMT, preventing the enzyme from methylating its substrate nicotinamide. Research indicates that this competitive inhibition occurs through specific molecular interactions between the quinolinium structure and key amino acid residues within the enzyme's active site. The compound's selectivity for NNMT over other methyltransferases contributes to its utility as a research tool.

    Laboratory studies have shown that 5-Amino-1MQ inhibition of NNMT leads to increased cellular nicotinamide levels, which can then be converted back to NAD+ through salvage pathways. This mechanism provides researchers with a tool to investigate the relationship between NAD+ metabolism and cellular function in various experimental models.

    Impact on Metabolic Pathways

    The inhibition of NNMT by 5-Amino-1MQ creates cascading effects on multiple metabolic pathways. Research suggests that increased NAD+ availability can enhance the activity of NAD+-dependent enzymes such as sirtuins, which play important roles in cellular stress responses and metabolic regulation.

    Studies indicate that 5-Amino-1MQ treatment can influence glucose metabolism through enhanced glycolytic flux and improved mitochondrial function. The compound's effects on cellular energy status may also impact lipid metabolism, with research showing alterations in fatty acid oxidation and synthesis pathways in treated cells.

    Chemical Properties

    5-Amino-1MQ exhibits specific chemical characteristics that are important for researchers working with this compound in laboratory settings. Understanding these properties ensures proper handling, storage, and experimental design when incorporating this NNMT inhibitor into research protocols.

    Purity Standards & Specifications

    Research-grade 5-Amino-1MQ is typically supplied at ≥98% purity, verified through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry analysis. This high purity standard ensures consistent experimental results and minimizes the presence of impurities that could interfere with research outcomes.

    The compound's molecular weight of 173.21 Da allows for precise molar calculations in experimental design. Quality control measures for research-grade 5-Amino-1MQ include verification of molecular identity, purity assessment, and contamination screening to meet laboratory research standards.

    Storage & Stability

    5-Amino-1MQ demonstrates good stability when stored under appropriate conditions. Research laboratories typically store the compound at -20°C in a dry environment protected from light to maintain chemical integrity over extended periods. The compound shows reasonable stability in aqueous solutions when prepared fresh for experiments.

    Solubility characteristics indicate that 5-Amino-1MQ dissolves readily in water and common laboratory solvents such as DMSO and ethanol. This solubility profile facilitates its use in various experimental systems, from cell culture applications to animal model studies.

    Verified Sources on ChemVerify

    Researchers seeking high-quality 5-Amino-1MQ for laboratory applications can find verified vendors and third-party tested batches through ChemVerify's comprehensive database. The platform provides detailed vendor verification, batch testing results, and quality assurance information to help researchers make informed procurement decisions.

    ChemVerify's verification process ensures that listed suppliers meet stringent quality standards for research-grade compounds. Users can access detailed certificates of analysis, purity verification data, and vendor compliance information at /product/5-amino-1mq to support their research requirements and institutional procurement policies.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the primary research application of 5-Amino-1MQ?

    5-Amino-1MQ is primarily used in metabolic research as a selective NNMT inhibitor. Studies focus on investigating NAD+ metabolism, cellular energy homeostasis, and metabolic pathway modulation in laboratory settings.

    How does 5-Amino-1MQ differ from other metabolic research compounds?

    Unlike broader metabolic modulators, 5-Amino-1MQ provides selective NNMT inhibition, allowing researchers to specifically investigate the role of this enzyme in cellular metabolism without affecting other methyltransferase pathways.

    What concentration ranges are typically used in cell culture studies?

    Research literature indicates that 5-Amino-1MQ is effective in cell culture applications at micromolar concentrations, with specific concentrations varying based on cell type, experimental duration, and research objectives.

    Is 5-Amino-1MQ compatible with standard laboratory assays?

    Yes, 5-Amino-1MQ is generally compatible with standard biochemical assays, cell viability measurements, and metabolic flux analyses commonly used in research laboratories, though specific compatibility should be verified for each assay system.

    What quality verification should researchers look for when purchasing 5-Amino-1MQ?

    Researchers should verify HPLC purity analysis (≥98%), mass spectrometry confirmation, certificate of analysis, and appropriate storage conditions. Third-party testing verification through platforms like ChemVerify provides additional quality assurance.

    How should 5-Amino-1MQ solutions be prepared for experiments?

    5-Amino-1MQ solutions should be prepared fresh using sterile, research-grade solvents. Stock solutions can be stored according to stability data, and working concentrations should be prepared immediately before use to ensure optimal compound activity in experiments.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Further Reading on ChemVerify

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