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Sleep/Cognition/Inflammation

PQQ

Redox cofactor marketed for mitochondrial support that may modestly improve sleep and mental fatigue in healthy adults.

PQQ
35
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk

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Use with caution

This supplement may interact with medications, medical conditions or sensitive populations. Review safety before use.

Quick Take

Promising for sleep and mental fatigue, but the human evidence is still small and too weak for a routine recommendation.

PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) is a redox-active quinone found in trace amounts in fermented soy, kiwifruit, green tea, parsley, and peppers. It appears to influence mitochondrial signaling, including pathways linked to mitochondrial biogenesis, while also affecting oxidative and inflammatory signaling. Human evidence is limited but suggests possible benefits for sleep quality, mental fatigue, and some cognitive measures. It is most relevant for adults curious about mitochondrial-focused nootropics, not people seeking a proven core supplement.

Potential benefits

01
May improve sleep quality
02
May reduce mental fatigue
03
May improve attention/memory
04
May lower hs-CRP
05
May reduce oxidative stress

Protocol

Amount
10-20 mg
Frequency
Once daily
When
With breakfast or lunch; take earlier in the day if it feels mildly activating.

Onset Time

Usually 2-8 weeks for subjective sleep, fatigue, or focus changes.

Who Should Consider

Adults with persistent mental fatigue
People experimenting with mitochondrial nootropics
Older adults seeking modest cognitive support
Poor sleepers wanting a non-melatonin trial

Food Sources

  • Natto and other fermented soy foods (trace amounts)
  • Kiwifruit (trace amounts)
  • Green tea (trace amounts)
  • Parsley and green peppers (trace amounts)

How It Works

PQQ can cycle between oxidized and reduced states, affecting cell signaling rather than acting like a classical stimulant. In lab and animal work it activates pathways such as CREB and PGC-1α that are linked to mitochondrial biogenesis and may dampen oxidative and inflammatory stress; human effects so far appear modest.

Updated 5/19/2026

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