Figure 1 (IMAGE) Kanazawa University Caption (A) NNMT catalyzes the methylation of nicotinamide to produce 1-methylnicotinamide (1-MNA). 1-MNA can be further oxidized by aldehyde oxidase into, N1-methyl-2- pyridone-5-carboxamide (2py) or N1-methyl-4-pyridone-3-carboxamide (4py), and all three metabolites are excreted in the urine. (B) Pillar[n]arenes, which were first reported by Ogoshi’s group in 2008, are a family of pillar-shaped macrocyclic compounds that contain a para-bridge connection between the 1,4-dialkoxybenzene units. They have an electron-rich cavity that has host–guest properties, and it is known that pillar[n]arenes form stable complexes with cations. A water-soluble pillar[6] arene (P6A) is carrying 12 carboxylate anions. The diameter across the cavity of P6A is approximately 0.67 nm. Credit Kanazawa University Usage Restrictions The image may only be used with appropriate caption and credit. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.