What is NAD+?
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD⁺) is a coenzyme found in all living cells and is essential for numerous biological functions, including cellular energy metabolism, DNA repair, and gene expression. Recent research has focused on its role in aging, mitochondrial function, and cellular resilience.
NAD⁺ is a critical redox coenzyme involved in metabolic pathways such as glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. It also serves as a substrate for enzymes like sirtuins and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs), which regulate aging, inflammation, and DNA repair. Its levels are known to decline with age and in certain disease states, highlighting its importance in aging-related research [2].
Molecular Formula and Structure
- Molecular Formula: C₂₁H₂₇N₇O₁₄P₂
- Molecular Weight: 663.43 g/mol
The molecule is composed of two nucleotides joined by phosphate groups: one containing an adenine base and the other a nicotinamide moiety. This structure is essential for its function in electron transfer and enzymatic activation [3].
NAD⁺ Research
Cellular Energy Metabolism
NAD⁺ plays a vital role in cellular energy production by accepting and donating electrons during metabolic reactions. It is a central coenzyme in glycolysis, the TCA cycle, and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, making it essential in studies on cellular bioenergetics [1].
DNA Repair and Genomic Stability
It acts as a substrate for PARP enzymes involved in the base excision repair pathway. Research shows that depleted levels impair DNA repair capacity, potentially accelerating genomic instability and aging [2][4].
Age-Related Decline
Multiple studies have observed a significant decrease in NAD⁺ levels during aging, obesity, and chronic inflammation. This reduction impairs mitochondrial function, sirtuin activity, and stress resistance, making it a key target in aging and longevity research [2][5].
Cardiovascular Function
Preclinical studies suggest that repletion improves cardiac function by enhancing mitochondrial efficiency, reducing oxidative stress, and supporting endothelial function. It has shown promise in experimental models of heart failure and hypertension [1][5].
Neuroprotection and Brain Health
NAD⁺ has been linked to neuronal survival and cognitive function. Its role in activating sirtuins and preserving mitochondrial health makes it a promising molecule in neurodegenerative disease models, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s [4][6].
Reconstitution and dosing
NAD+ is typically reconstituted with Bacteriostatic Water at 100mg/ml. Administration is done subcutaneously or intramuscularly at 100mg 2-3 days per week or 50mg daily.
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Referenced Citations
- Trammell SAJ, et al. NAD⁺ metabolism in aging and disease. Circ Res. 2022;130(3):486–508. PMID: 35077429
- Verdin E. NAD⁺ in aging, metabolism, and neurodegeneration. Science. 2015;350(6265):1208–1213. PMID: 26785480
- PubChem. NAD⁺ – Compound Summary. CID 5892
- Belenky P, et al. NAD⁺ metabolism in health and disease. Trends Biochem Sci. 2007;32(1):12–19. PMID: 17161604
- Gariani K, et al. Pharmacological stimulation of NAD⁺ improves mitochondrial and stem cell function in muscle. Cell Metab. 2016;24(4):529–541. PMID: 27693237
- Huang YY, et al. NAD⁺ in neurodegenerative disease models. Brain Res Bull. 2021;168:124–132. PMID: 33647380
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