Effetti dell'integrazione di PQQ sulle prestazioni aerobiche in atleti condizionati all'attività di endurance e non.

This doctoral research investigates the impact of Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) supplementation on aerobic performance and physiological adaptations in both non-endurance-trained athletes and elite cyclists. PQQ is a potent redox-active compound recognized for its antioxidant properties, its role as a cofactor in mitochondrial biogenesis, and its ability to modulate cellular energy metabolism. Previous studies demonstrated that PQQ supplementation induces a significant upregulation of PGC-1α, a master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis. Given that mitochondrial biogenesis is directly linked to enhanced aerobic capacity and fat utilization, PQQ represents a promising supplement for athletes seeking to optimize their performance. The first study adopts a double-blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT) design, enrolling 24 non-endurance-trained subjects to assess the effects of six weeks of PQQ supplementation compared to a placebo. Outcome measures include substrate utilization during a FATmax-VO2peak exercise test, markers of mitochondrial biogenesis, body composition analysis, and blood parameters. The second phase of the research, currently ongoing, focuses on elite cyclists, a population characterized by highly developed aerobic capacity. This study seeks to determine whether PQQ supplementation confers benefits in this cohort by enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and in turn, optimizing substrate utilization during prolonged endurance efforts. By comparing responses between non-endurance-trained individuals and elite athletes, this research aims to elucidate the extent to which the physiological effects of PQQ are modulated by baseline training status and fitness levels.