At the cellular level, Methylene Blue (MB) accepts and donates electrons within the mitochondria. It can shuttle electrons in the electron transport chain between complexes I–IV, essentially bypassing any bottlenecks. By doing this, MB ensures that mitochondria can keep producing ATP (cellular energy) efficiently, even under stress or when certain pathways are impaired. This is why MB is seen as a powerful metabolic enhancer – it improves mitochondrial respiration, resulting in increased energy availability for the cell. In the brain, MB’s actions lead to better energy supply for neurons and a reduction in damaging reactive oxygen species. MB is also a reversible MAO-A inhibitor at low doses, which means it prevents the breakdown of neurotransmitters like serotonin. This is why low-dose MB can elevate mood and have an antidepressant-like effect. However, it’s a gentle effect compared to pharmaceutical MAOIs. Additionally, MB has antioxidant properties – it can neutralize nitric oxide (NO) and reduce oxidative stress in cells. By reducing NO, it prevents the overproduction of the harmful free radical peroxynitrite (implicated in neurodegeneration). It also protects mitochondrial DNA and can even upregulate certain protective pathways in cells. On the skin, MB’s antioxidant and electron-shuttling abilities help fibroblasts (collagen-producing cells) function better, which is why it has shown promise in improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines when applied topically. As an antiparasitic (at much higher doses than nootropic use), MB interferes with the parasite’s metabolism (used historically for malaria). In summary, MB enhances mitochondrial function, modulates neurotransmitters, and protects cells from oxidative damage, which collectively explain its nootropic, anti-anxiety, and anti-aging effects.