Cognitive Function and Safety of Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium (PQQ) in Healthy Adults Aged 20 to 65 Years

Abstract

Research on dietary supplements aimed at improving cognitive function is actively being conducted, and among these, Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium (PQQ) has attracted attention. PQQ has functions related to mitochondrial biogenesis and neuroprotection. Cognitive tests targeting middle-aged and elderly individuals have been reported so far. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with healthy adults aged 20 to 65 years, including individuals in their 20s and 30s, to assess the effects of taking 20 mg of PQQ daily. Cognitive function evaluations using the Stroop Test, 2-back Test, and computerized neurocognitive assessments (Cognitrax), as well as safety assessments including adverse events, biochemical tests, and blood tests, were performed. The collected data were analyzed based on medical statistics. The Stroop Test measures attention and judgment. In the Stroop Test, the PQQ intake group showed improvements in accuracy and response time after 12 weeks of intake. There was no significant difference observed in the 2-back Test. In the neurocognitive tests, improvements were noted in composite memory and verbal memory. No significant differences were observed between the placebo and PQQ intake groups in adverse events, biochemical tests, blood tests, and urine tests. It was confirmed that PQQ improves attention, judgment, composite memory, and verbal memory in healthy individuals aged 20 to 65 years and is safe.