
What is 1-MNA?
1-MNA, which stands for 1-methylnicotinamide, is a natural byproduct of nicotinic acid and nicotinamide, both primary variants of vitamin B3. Research indicates that 1-MNA plays a role in supporting the health of the vascular endothelium and the cardiovascular system. Given its potential in minimizing the onset of atherosclerosis, it's considered beneficial as a dietary supplement, especially for older individuals.

How does 1-MNA work?
The primary way 1-MNA functions is by moderating the activities of vascular endothelial cells and ensuring the stability of their secretion processes. The endothelial cells that line our blood vessels do more than just guide blood; they have a profound influence over the entire vascular network. Essentially, the endothelium is akin to a dynamic metabolic and endocrine organ. Ensuring its optimal operation is pivotal for a healthy cardiovascular system.
When the endothelium malfunctions, it disrupts this delicate balance, paving the way for various cardiovascular issues and complications. This dysfunction can also influence other systems, potentially leading to conditions like diabetes, as well as disorders affecting the gastrointestinal, liver, and kidney functions. 1-MNA's interaction with the vascular endothelial cells prompts them to release a natural compound called prostacyclin (PGI2). PGI2 is notable for being a potent natural inhibitor of blood platelet aggregation. It possesses both anticoagulant and anti-atherosclerotic attributes. Without enough PGI2, there's a higher risk of platelets clumping together, forming artery-blocking clots. Additionally, PGI2 might play a role in decreasing the concentration of pro-inflammatory agents in the blood.
1-MNA's encouragement of PGI2 production results in diminished inflammatory indicators (like high sensitivity C-reactive protein; hsCRP, Tumour Necrotic Factor-α; TNF-α, and interleukin 4; IL-4). This aids in safeguarding the cardiovascular system from issues like blood clot formation, vascular atherosclerosis, inflammation, and related ailments.
Globally, 1-MNA is recognized as a cutting-edge, patented molecule.

Sources of 1-MNA
1-MNA is a compound naturally produced in our bodies, primarily in the liver, as it's a byproduct of nicotinic acid and nicotinamide metabolism. While it's also found in vitamin B3-rich foods, dietary sources contribute minimally to the total amount of 1-MNA present in the human body. In fact, around 60% of the niacin we consume is transformed into 1-MNA, as cited by Menon et al., 2007.
Some foods that are notable for their 1-MNA content, as reported by Taguchi et al., 1986, include:
- Undaria pinnatifida (Wakame seaweed): 3.2 mg per 100g
- Green tea leaves: 3.0 mg per 100g
- Chicken gizzards: 2.4 mg per 100g
- Celery: 1.6 mg per 100g
- Chinese black mushrooms: 1.3 mg per 100g.

Features of 1-MNA
- Derived from vitamins, 1-MNA is a natural and physiological substance.
- Known to be safe and well-tolerated.
- Renowned for its anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic qualities.
- Lowers levels of inflammatory markers.
- Essential for maintaining vascular endothelial function and stimulating synthesis of prostacyclin (PGI2).
- Bolsters the secretory function of the vascular endothelium, thereby safeguarding against dysfunction.
- Minimizes the risk of blood clot formation and inflammation via PGI2 synthesis.
- Enhances the stability of sirtuins (Sirt1), which in certain biological models has been associated with extended lifespan.
- Considered a groundbreaking molecule with potent anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic effects.
- Leading research institutions suggest 1-MNA may extend human lifespan

1-MNA and Human Health
In humans, 1-MNA is predominantly produced in the liver during niacin metabolism. This production stems from the enzymatic breakdown of nicotinamide, facilitated by nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) (as referenced by Felsted and Chaykin, 1967; Pissios, 2017). Once synthesized, 1-MNA converts into pyridones: 2-PYR and 4-PYR. Although both are generated, 2-PYR is the principal metabolite of 1-MNA in humans, as noted by Sugihara et al., 2005.

Nicotinamide Metabolic Pathway
This diagram illustrates the metabolic pathway of nicotinamide. The key enzymes involved are:
- Cytochrome P450
- Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase
- Aldehyde oxidase
(Reference: Chlopicki et al., 2007)

Beyond a Niacin Marker
For many years, 1-MNA levels in urine and plasma were primarily viewed as markers for "niacin." This was despite nicotinic acid and nicotinamide showcasing various therapeutic benefits and their proven efficacy in treating numerous ailments.
Recent research shows that 1-MNA plays a pivotal role in supporting the vascular endothelium and the cardiovascular system. Given its potential to curb the progression of atherosclerosis, it's considered beneficial as a supplement, particularly for older adults. Notably, the human body's capability to produce 1-MNA diminishes with age.
1-MNA Safety
1-MNA, a physiological substance with vitamin origins, is also found in natural sources. Research has consistently shown that 1-MNA is both safe and well-tolerated in humans. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has conducted a thorough assessment of 1-MNA's safety, confirming its safe usage(1).
(1) EFSA NDA Panel (EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies), Turck D, et al. "Scientific Opinion: Safety of 1-methylnicotinamide chloride (1-MNA) as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 258/97." EFSA Journal 2017; 15(10): 5001. Electronic publication available here.