Could NAD+ Be the Key to Slowing Aging and Fighting Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s?
A growing body of research suggests that nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a molecule found in all living cells, may play a crucial role in slowing the aging process and protecting against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. A recent expert review published in Nature Aging, authored by over 25 scientists from institutions including the University of Oslo (UiO) and Akershus University Hospital (Ahus), highlights the potential of NAD+ and strategies to boost its levels.
What is NAD+ and Why is it Important?
NAD+ is often described as a cell’s “fuel regulator” because it’s essential for energy production, DNA repair and maintaining overall cellular function 1. However, NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, a decrease linked to memory problems, reduced muscle strength, and an increased risk of age-related diseases 1.
Boosting NAD+ Levels: NR and NMN
Researchers are exploring ways to increase NAD+ levels through compounds like nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). Early studies suggest these compounds may improve memory, metabolism, and physical function 1. Clinical trials are currently underway worldwide, including in Norway, to further investigate the effects of NAD+ precursors 1.
Expert Insights from the University of Oslo
Dr. Evandro Fei Fang-Stavem, senior author of the Nature Aging review and head of the Fang Lab at UiO and Ahus, emphasizes the need for clarity in the field. “NAD+ is fundamental to life, yet there is still confusion and noise about which supplements work best and how they should be used,” she says 1. Her lab focuses on several research areas related to aging, including NAD+ metabolism, mitophagy, and the application of artificial intelligence in drug development for Alzheimer’s disease 2.
Dr. Jianying Zhang, a lead author of the review, notes that “fine-tuning NAD+ metabolism holds promise for delaying age-related health decline as well as diseases such as premature ageing diseases,” but stresses the importance of determining optimal doses, long-term safety, and individual responses to NAD+ augmentation 1.
The Need for Further Research and Collaboration
The authors of the Nature Aging review emphasize the need for stronger collaboration and more rigorous clinical testing to translate early findings into safe and effective treatments for aging and age-related diseases 1. This research is particularly important given the projected increase in the global elderly population, with 25% of the world’s population expected to be over 65 by 2100 2.
Key Takeaways
- NAD+ is a vital molecule for cellular function and declines with age.
- Boosting NAD+ levels with compounds like NR and NMN shows early promise in improving health and potentially preventing age-related diseases.
- More research, including large-scale clinical trials, is needed to determine the optimal use of NAD+-based therapies.
- Collaboration among researchers is crucial to advance the field and develop effective treatments.
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