Pyrroloquinoline quinone
Pyrroloquinoline quinone
Pyrroloquinoline quinone (pronunciation: pir-oh-lo-kwin-o-leen kwin-on, abbreviated PQQ) is a small molecule that has the potential to act as a redox cofactor in bacteria. It was discovered in 1979 by J.G. Hauge.
Etymology
The term "Pyrroloquinoline quinone" is derived from its chemical structure, which consists of a quinone moiety and a pyrroloquinoline moiety.
Function
Pyrroloquinoline quinone is involved in a type of enzyme called quinoproteins. These enzymes are used by bacteria for redox reactions, which are important for energy production. PQQ is also thought to be a potent antioxidant capable of neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
Related Terms
- Quinone: A class of organic compounds that are formally "derived from aromatic compounds [such as benzene or naphthalene] by conversion of an even number of –CH= groups into –C(=O)– groups with any necessary rearrangement of double bonds", resulting in "a fully conjugated cyclic dione structure".
- Redox: A type of chemical reaction that involves a transfer of electrons between two species.
- Enzyme: A substance produced by a living organism which acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.
- Antioxidant: A substance that inhibits oxidation, especially one used to counteract the deterioration of stored food products.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pyrroloquinoline quinone
- Wikipedia's article - Pyrroloquinoline quinone
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