What Is NAD+
NAD+, short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is the oxidized form of NADH. It’s main biological function is to carry electrons from one biochemical reaction to another, acting to shuttle energy within a cell and, in certain conditions, to extracellular locations as well. NAD+ also plays roles in enzyme activation/deactivation, posttranslational modification of proteins, and cell-to-cell communication. As an extracellular signaling molecule, NAD+ has been found to be released from neurons in blood vessels, the bladder, the large intestine, and from certain neurons in the brain.
NAD+ Structure
Source:Â PubMed
Sequence: N/A
Molecular Formula: C21H27N7O14P2
Molecular Weight: 663.43 g/mol
PubChem CID: 925
CAS Number: 53-84-9
Synonyms: nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, beta-NAD, NAD, Endopride
NAD+ Effects
- NAD+ is best thought of as a support molecule that is essential to cellular metabolism as well as extracellular communication. Research shows that NAD+ plays important roles in energy conversion, DNA repair, immune defense, and circadian cycles. Levels of the cofactor, however, are sensitive to disease state as well as age. NAD+ as the following effects that decline as a result of natural age-related decreases in the levels of the cofactor.
- NAD+ activates sirtuins and other enzymes, liked Poly-ADP-ribose polymerases, involved in DNA repair and inflammatory processes. Sirtuins are the same enzymes linked to the life-extending benefits of calorie restriction.
- NAD+ controls the production of the protein PGC-1-alpha, which protects neurons and other cells in the central nervous system from oxidative stress. Research in mice shows that this particular effect may be linked to improved memory, particularly with aging.
- In mouse models, NAD+ helps to protect blood vessels against age-related hardening and the deposition of atherosclerotic plaques. In some studies, the cofactor even helps to reverse age-related dysfunction of the aorta.
- Mice given NAD+ show increased rates of metabolism and improved lean body mass.
- Increased NAD+ levels can increase muscle strength and endurance in older mice.
- NAD+ has been linked to extracellular signaling, particularly for smooth muscle. It may be of benefit in GI function. This effect is likely responsible for NAD+ benefits on blood pressure
NAD+ Additions and Synergies
- Because NAD+ is a naturally occurring molecule, it is easy to combine with other supplements to obtain synergistic effects with few to no side effects. This is particularly true when NAD+ is combined with other natural supplements. Research in mice bears this out in several specific cases.
- Combining NAD+ and high-dose biotin may help to combat pain and reduce levels of pain.
- CoQ10, another cofactor in energy metabolism, may work synergistically with NAD+ to improve neurological function and protect the central nervous system against oxidative stress.
- Reservatrol and NAD+ make work together to reduce oxidative damage, lower inflammation, and help to lower levels of LDL (a.k.a. bad) cholesterol. They may also work together to protect against diabetes and neurodegenerative disease.
- Vitamins B1, B2, and B6 help to boost NAD+ salvage. When combined with NAD+ supplementation, they may help to improve overall NAD+ levels.
- Combining NAD+ with mitochondrial and energy supplements, such as creatine and alpha-lipoic acid, may boost antioxidant and anti-aging effects.