Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a crucial coenzyme found in every cell of our body, playing a pivotal role in the energy production processes that sustain life. Its prominence in cellular health and longevity has fueled interest in the therapeutic potential of NAD+ infusions. These infusions are believed to bolster cellular function, combat oxidative stress, and promote overall well-being.

Aging:

  • NAD+ is known to have a crucial role in cellular metabolism and is a co-substrate for enzymes involved in pathways that modify aging. Increasing NAD+ levels may potentially slow aspects of the aging trajectory, thus garnering interest in methods for cellular restoration​1​.

Regenerative Medicine:

  • NAD+ has been identified as a key player in regenerative medicine due to its pivotal role in cellular metabolism. The coenzyme is also involved in pathways that potentially modify aging, making it a topic of great interest for interventions aiming at cellular NAD+ restoration​2​.

Cellular Functions:

  • NAD+ is instrumental in the conversion of nutrients into energy as a key player in metabolism. Additionally, it supports the functionality of sirtuins, proteins known for their role in healthy aging and DNA repair.
  • It can influence many key cellular functions, including metabolic pathways, DNA repair, chromatin remodeling, cellular senescence, and immune cell function. These cellular processes and functions are critical for maintaining tissue and metabolic homeostasis and for healthy aging​3​.

Clinical Evidence for Targeting NAD+ Therapeutically:

  • A review of literature following the PRISMA guidelines explored human clinical trials performed to date to evaluate the potential benefits of NAD supplementation in a range of skin, metabolic, and age-related conditions. Promising yet speculative results have been reported for the treatment of psoriasis and enhancement of skeletal muscle activity. However, the review emphasizes the need for further trials to determine the optimal method of raising NAD levels and identifying the target conditions​4​.
  1. The role of NAD+ in regenerative medicine: PubMed link
  2. NAD+ metabolism and its roles in cellular processes during ageing: PubMed link
  3. Clinical Evidence for Targeting NAD Therapeutically: PubMed link
  4. NAD+ therapy in age-related degenerative disorders: A benefit/risk analysis: PubMed link

In summary, NAD+ is a significant coenzyme with a potential therapeutic application in age-related conditions, regenerative medicine, and other health areas. While there’s promising evidence, more clinical trials are required to ascertain the full range of benefits and understand the optimal methods of NAD+ supplementation or augmentation.