The effects of nicotinamide riboside in brain cells

 

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a derivative of vitamin B3 and serves as a driving substance for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+).

Because most of the research on nicotinamide riboside and NAD+ comes from animal studies, no firm conclusions can be drawn about its effectiveness in humans.

NAD+ is a coenzyme or accessory molecule involved in many biological reactions.

Although it's essential for maintaining optimal health, research shows that NAD+ levels continue to decline as we age. Lower NAD+ levels are associated with aging and various harmful diseases.

One way to increase NAD+ levels is to consume NAD+ precursors (the building blocks of NAD+), such as nicotinamide riboside.

Animal studies show that NR can increase the amount of NAD+ in the blood by up to 2.7 times.

NAD+ plays a key role in brain cell aging.

Within brain cells, NAD+ helps control the production of PGC-1-alpha, a protein that appears to help protect cells from oxidative stress and impaired mitochondrial function.

Researchers believe that both oxidative stress and impaired mitochondrial function are linked to age-related brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease

In a new study, researchers from the National Institute on Aging and the University of Delaware have determined for the first time that NR can enter the brain as a natural dietary supplement.

After reaching the brain, NR can alter the metabolism of biological pathways associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Relevant research results were published in the journal Aging Cell in January 2023. The paper is titled "Oral nicotinamide riboside raises NAD+ and lowers biomarkers of neurodegenerative pathology in plasma extracellular vesicles enriched for neuronal origin."

The team is leading a 12-week study involving NR in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. After demonstrating its efficacy, researchers will test whether increased use of NR improves cognitive performance and ultimately whether it can be used to slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

Nicotinamide riboside is available in tablet or capsule form and is commonly known as niacin. Most supplements recommend taking 250-300 mg per day, depending on the brand, which equates to 1-2 capsules per day.

*Special note - This article is for informational purposes only and cannot replace a doctor's treatment diagnosis and advice. It should not be regarded as a recommendation or proof of efficacy of the medical products involved. If it involves disease diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, please be sure to go to a professional medical institution to seek professional advice.