Overview
5-Amino-1MQ (5-amino-1-methylquinolinium) is a small molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), the enzyme responsible for methylating nicotinamide to form 1-methylnicotinamide (1-MNA). NNMT is highly expressed in white adipose tissue, liver, skeletal muscle, and certain cancer cell types, where it plays a pivotal role in epigenetic regulation and NAD+ precursor availability.
By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ prevents the methylation of nicotinamide — effectively redirecting nicotinamide back into the NAD+ biosynthesis pathway via the Preiss-Handler or salvage routes. Research has demonstrated that NNMT inhibition in adipose tissue promotes browning of white fat, reduces lipid accumulation, and increases energy expenditure without affecting food intake. 5-Amino-1MQ was specifically designed to be membrane-permeable and cell-penetrant, with submicromolar potency at NNMT, making it a widely used research tool for studying NNMT biology and metabolic regulation.
Mechanism of Action
- Competitive inhibition of NNMT's active site, preventing transfer of methyl group from SAM to nicotinamide
- Increased intracellular nicotinamide availability, upregulating NAD+ biosynthesis via NAMPT (salvage pathway)
- Reduction of 1-methylnicotinamide (1-MNA) production — a metabolic byproduct linked to adipogenesis promotion
- Promotion of WAT browning phenotype in adipocyte research models — increased UCP1 expression and thermogenic gene programs
- SAM/SAH ratio modulation, affecting global methylation capacity and histone methylation marks
Specifications
| Full Name | 5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium |
| Also Known As | 5-Amino-1MQ |
| Formula | C₆H₇N₃ (free base) |
| MW | 173.21 Da (iodide salt: ~300.13 Da) |
| CAS | 1836325-04-2 |
| Purity | ≥98% HPLC |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Appearance | Off-white to yellow powder |
| Storage | −20°C, desiccated |
| Solubility | DMSO, methanol; limited in water |
Usage Notes
5-Amino-1MQ is poorly soluble in water. For in vitro work, prepare a stock solution in DMSO (up to 50mM) then dilute into aqueous buffer. Keep final DMSO concentration below 0.1% for cell-based assays. Store powder at −20°C in a desiccated environment.
Quality Assurance
Every batch undergoes third-party HPLC testing to verify ≥98% purity. Mass spectrometry confirms molecular identity. COA included with every order.
Research Use Only. 5-Amino-1MQ is sold exclusively for in vitro research and laboratory use. It is not approved for human consumption, veterinary use, or any clinical application. This product is not a drug, food, or cosmetic and must not be misbranded, misused, or mislabeled as such.