Anti-Aging: Is NAD+ the Fountain of Youth?
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a molecule found in every cell in your body. It is vital for life and supports various biological processes, including energy production, DNA repair, and cell signaling [1]. Your cells use NAD+ to convert the food you eat into energy and to repair damaged DNA, keeping your cells functioning properly [2]. However, as we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline [3].
This decline has been linked to various signs of aging and age-related diseases, such as decreased energy, cognitive decline, and increased susceptibility to disease [4]. Scientists are exploring ways to replenish NAD+ levels in the body, with the goal of potentially slowing the aging process and maintaining overall health [5].
Intravenous (IV) infusions of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) are being explored as a potential anti-aging treatment. NAD+ is a critical coenzyme that supports numerous biological processes, including energy metabolism and DNA repair [6]. As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decrease, which can lead to cellular dysfunction and aging symptoms [7].
Replenishing NAD+ levels through IV infusions directly increases the availability of this essential molecule in our cells, potentially enhancing their function. By bolstering energy production, these infusions may help combat fatigue and other age-related declines in physical function [8].
Furthermore, improved NAD+ availability supports cellular repair processes, which can counteract the DNA damage that accumulates over time, leading to potential improvements in cellular longevity and overall health [9].
Finally, NAD+ plays a role in regulating inflammation and maintaining the health of our neurons, so IV NAD+ infusions may help manage chronic inflammation and protect against neurodegenerative disorders, thereby contributing to cognitive health as we age [10].
Despite these potential benefits, it's important to note that research on IV NAD+ infusions is ongoing, and more studies are needed to fully understand the long-term effects and safety of this treatment.
References:
Verdin E. NAD⁺ in aging, metabolism, and neurodegeneration. Science. 2015.
Chini CCS, et al. The pharmacology of CD38/NADase: An emerging target in cancer and diseases of aging. Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2018.
Massudi H, et al. Age-associated changes in oxidative stress and NAD+ metabolism in human tissue. PLoS One. 2012.
Martens CR, et al. Chronic nicotinamide riboside supplementation is well-tolerated and elevates NAD+ in healthy middle-aged and older adults. Nat Commun. 2018.
Rajman L, et al. Therapeutic Potential of NAD-Boosting Molecules: The In Vivo Evidence. Cell Metab. 2018.
Zhang H, et al. NAD⁺ repletion improves mitochondrial and stem cell function and enhances life span in mice. Science. 2016.
Martens CR, et al. Chronic nicotinamide riboside supplementation is well-tolerated and elevates NAD+ in healthy middle-aged and older adults. Nat Commun. 2018.
Elhassan YS, et al. Nicotinamide Riboside Augments the Aged Human Skeletal Muscle NAD+ Metabolome and Induces Transcriptomic and Anti-inflammatory Signatures. Cell Rep. 2019.
Fang EF, et al. NAD+ in Aging: Molecular Mechanisms and Translational Implications. Trends Mol Med. 2017.
Gomes AP, et al. Declining NAD+ Induces a Pseudohypoxic State Disrupting Nuclear-Mitochondrial Communication during Aging. Cell. 2013.
