PQQ
PQQ, also known as pyrroloquinoline-quinone, is a molecule used as a cofactor in biological reactions. It has been shown to activate sirtuin genes, which are responsible for mitochondrial function, DNA maintenance, and overall cellular health.7 PQQ enhances mitochondrial generation and energy production.8
Niacin (Vit B3) (NAD/NMN)
(Niacin→NMN→NAD) Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a molecule needed early on in a long reaction that creates energy from food eaten. It is essential for this reaction to occur. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a derivative of niacin, and it can be converted into NAD+ through a series of enzymatic reactions. NAD and its precursors, like nicotinamide riboside (NR) and NMN, work to enhance cellular energy production, support DNA repair mechanisms, activate sirtuin genes involved in aging and metabolism regulation, maintain mitochondrial function, and potentially offer neuroprotective effects. Ongoing research continues to explore their implications for anti-aging and overall well-being.9
Vitamin A (Retinyl Acetate)
When deficient in vitamin A, oxidative stress increases, and ATP production by the mitochondria decreases.10 Correcting vitamin A deficiencies is essential for optimal mitochondrial function and overall health.
Thiamin (Vit B1)
Thiamin, also known as Thiamine or vitamin B1, is an essential cofactor for the ATP production reaction. When thiamin levels are low, energy production is reduced.11
Magnesium (Ascorbate)
Magnesium is an essential nutrient required for many physiological reactions. For example, it is required to complete the first step of energy production through a process known as glycolysis.12 Additionally, magnesium is heavily involved in DNA, RNA, amino acid, and protein reactions. Research suggests that a deficiency in magnesium may exacerbate Type 2 diabetes.13
Potassium (Dipotassium PO4)
Potassium is an essential element for numerous biological processes. It is required for many reactions to occur by creating ion gradients, acting as a cofactor for enzymatic reactions, and more. Maintaining appropriate levels of potassium in the body supports the health and function of mitochondria and may even delay mitochondrial degeneration, contributing to healthy aging processes.14
N-Acetyl L-Carnitine
L-Carnitine is essential for mitochondrial function, specifically for β-oxidation, a form of energy production that occurs in the mitochondria. Acetyl L-Carnitine, in particular, has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in the body and within the mitochondria itself. Carnitine has also been shown to improve blood pressure, insulin sensitivity, and overall cardiovascular health. Additionally, it can aid in regulating sirtuin gene expression which helps with energy production, cellular health, and healthy aging.15
Kudzu Extract (Daidzin)
Daidzin promotes mitochondrial biogenesis through the SIRT1 pathway.16
Calcium Pyruvate
Calcium is an essential cofactor for several reactions involved in energy production within the mitochondria. Pyruvate is the molecule that enters the Krebs cycle to be broken down in order to make ATP.17
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is an integral part of the electron transport chain in the mitochondria. By protecting lipids in the cell membrane, CoQ10 supports the function and integrity of the cell as a whole.18
L-Tryptophan
L-Tryptophan is the sole precursor of serotonin, which has been linked to mitochondrial biogenesis.19 Improved mitochondrial density can positively impact energy production. L-Tryptophan enhances mitochondrial function and output through the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α signaling pathway.20
Alpha Ketoglutaric Acid
Alpha-Ketoglutaric acid is an intermediate molecule in the citric acid cycle, the second major step of energy and ATP production in the body. It has also been shown to improve muscle recovery and aging. Additionally, it’s been reported that alpha-Ketoglutaric acid can upregulate the expression of SIRT1.21
Aspartic Acid
Aspartic acid is involved in generating NADH, an important energy molecule and a crucial component involved in cellular energy production. NADH plays a pivotal role in various biochemical reactions, particularly in the production of ATP, which serves as the primary energy currency for cells. Additionally, aspartic acid contributes to safeguarding the mitochondria, the cell’s energy-producing organelle, and helps maintain a balance in the reduction-oxidation (redox) reactions occurring within these cellular powerhouses.22
Ribose
Ribose plays a crucial role in mitochondrial function, primarily through its involvement in the synthesis of ATP. In certain cardiovascular conditions characterized by a compromised ability to regenerate ATP efficiently, ribose supplementation has been investigated as a potential therapy to support mitochondrial function. Ribose also exhibits antioxidant properties that help protect mitochondria, and other cellular structures, from oxidative damage.23,24
L-Valine
Valine supplementation has been shown to increase the production of mitochondria by stimulating the expression of SIRT1 and SIRT2 genes. It is suggested that this may help support energy production, muscle health, and appropriate aging processes.25
L-Alanine
Alanine has been shown to improve mitochondrial biogenesis and mitigate the effects of aging through SIRT expression.26
ATP
ATP, also known as adenosine triphosphate, serves as the energy currency for every cell in all living organisms. Without ATP, life would not exist. It stores energy in the bonds between its phosphate groups and releases this energy when the bonds are broken. This energy producing process fuels numerous reactions in our body, including muscle contraction, nerve impulses, molecule creation, and ion transportation. The human body relies of the energy that comes from breaking down between one septillion and one octillion ATP molecules per day.27
Luteolin
In normal cells, luteolin has been shown to stimulate sirtuin genes, which enhances mitochondrial function. It also provides protection against oxidative stress in the mitochondria, which may potentially mitigate the damage caused by strokes.28
Note: In cancerous cells, luteolin causes immense mitochondrial disruption which triggers the cell to initiate apoptosis.29,30
Pantethine
Pantethine is a precursor to the molecule CoQ10 and has been shown to significantly increase the production of Coenzyme A (CoA) in the liver, which is involved in energy production. It has also been reported to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood.31
Glucono Delta-Lactone
Glucono delta-lactone is a derivative of glucose. This organic compound is heavily involved in the first step of energy production in the body, glycolysis. It is also involved in controlling the cellular life cycle.32