Mitochondria—often called the cell’s “energy factories”—are at the center of some of today’s most fascinating biomedical research. They determine endurance, recovery, and even cognitive performance. One compound in particular, pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), is proving especially promising in this area.

Space as a laboratory: NASA and PQQ

Long-term space missions pose a serious challenge for astronauts—rapid loss of muscle and bone mass, further aggravated by cosmic radiation. Traditional exercise routines aboard the International Space Station are helpful, but far from sufficient.

This is where PQQ comes in. Preliminary data suggest that this molecule activates SIRT3, a key mitochondrial protein that regulates oxidative stress and supports mitochondrial respiration. NASA is exploring whether PQQ supplementation could slow down or even prevent muscle atrophy in astronauts. If confirmed, PQQ could become one of the first nutraceuticals with direct application in space physiology.

The Japanese experiment: from the lab to everyday life

Back on Earth, Japanese researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 64 healthy volunteers. Over a 12-week period, one group received PQQ while the other received a placebo.

The results were impressive:

• significant improvement in lower-limb muscle strength,

• increased handgrip strength,

• better performance in physical function tests, including the six-minute walk test and maximum walking speed.

While the placebo group showed no meaningful changes, participants taking PQQ demonstrated real improvements in endurance and physical capability.

What does this mean for the future?

The fact that NASA is considering PQQ as a countermeasure against muscle atrophy in space, while a Japanese clinical trial demonstrates its benefits for muscle strength on Earth, places this molecule firmly in the spotlight.

PQQ is not just an antioxidant—it stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis, optimizes energy metabolism, and supports cellular resilience. This makes it relevant not only for astronauts and military personnel, but also for anyone looking to improve endurance and overall quality of life.

Synergy in our formula

In Fundamentals by Mitopia, we use a high, optimal concentration of PQQ—but we don’t stop there. For maximum effectiveness, we combine it with Urolithin A, a molecule that promotes cellular cleansing and rejuvenation, and CoQ10, a key factor in mitochondrial energy production. Together, they create a powerful synergy aimed at optimizing energy, endurance, and cellular health.