What Is NADH? Other Names: BNADH, Enada, Nicotinamide Adénine Dinucléotide

What is NADH?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) is a crucial coenzyme found in all living cells. It plays a significant role in various metabolic processes, particularly in the production of energy. NADH is the reduced form of NAD+, which is involved in redox reactions, carrying electrons from one reaction to another. This article explores the structure, function, and importance of NADH in cellular metabolism and its implications in health and disease. Other names include: B-DPNH, BNADH, Coenzyme 1, Enada, NAD, Nicotinamide Adénine Dinucléotide, Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Hydrate, Reduced DPN, Reduced Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide.

Structure and Function

NADH consists of two nucleotides joined through their phosphate groups. One nucleotide contains an adenine base, and the other contains nicotinamide. The primary function of NADH is to transfer electrons in metabolic reactions. It acts as an electron donor in the electron transport chain, a series of reactions that generate ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell2 4 5.

Role in Cellular Metabolism

NADH is produced during glycolysis and the citric acid cycle, two critical pathways in cellular respiration. During glycolysis, glucose is broken down into pyruvate, producing NADH in the process. In the citric acid cycle, acetyl-CoA is oxidized, generating additional NADH. These NADH molecules then donate electrons to the electron transport chain, leading to the production of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation2 4 5.

Health Implications

NADH levels are crucial for maintaining cellular energy balance. A decline in NADH levels is associated with aging and various metabolic disorders. For instance, studies have shown that NAD+ and its precursors, such as nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), can improve insulin sensitivity and muscle function in prediabetic and obese individuals2 5 9. Additionally, NADH is involved in the regulation of sirtuins, a family of proteins linked to aging and longevity3 4.

Therapeutic Potential

Supplementation with NAD+ precursors like NMN and nicotinamide riboside (NR) has shown promise in enhancing NADH levels and improving metabolic health. Clinical trials have demonstrated that NMN supplementation can increase muscle insulin sensitivity and aerobic capacity in humans2 9. Moreover, NADH and its precursors are being investigated for their potential to mitigate age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular conditions3 4 5.

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Uses of NADH

Parkinson’s Disease

NADH has been investigated for its potential to improve symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease. However, studies have shown that short-term treatment with NADH does not result in significant clinical or biochemical improvements in these patients1.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

NADH has shown promise as a treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome. In a study, 31% of patients with CFS responded favorably to NADH, compared to 8% who responded to a placebo. This suggests that NADH may help alleviate symptoms of CFS, although further clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy2.

Hypertension and Cardiovascular Health

NADH supplementation has been found to lower systolic blood pressure and improve lipid profiles in hypertensive rats. It reduced total cholesterol and LDL levels and decreased lipid peroxidation in renal tissues, indicating potential cardiovascular benefits3.

Alzheimer’s Disease

NADH has been studied for its effects on cognitive functioning in Alzheimer’s disease patients. Results indicate that NADH can help maintain cognitive function and improve certain cognitive abilities such as verbal fluency and visual-constructional ability, without significant adverse effects4.

Insulin Sensitivity and Metabolic Health

NADH and its precursors, such as nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity in muscle tissues of prediabetic women. This suggests potential benefits for metabolic health and the management of prediabetes5.

Exercise Performance and Redox Homeostasis

NADH supplementation, particularly in the form of nicotinamide riboside (NR), has been found to improve redox homeostasis and physical performance in older individuals. It increased NADH levels, reduced oxidative stress, and improved muscle strength and fatigue resistance6.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

NADH and its precursors can also have anti-inflammatory effects. For instance, nicotinamide riboside supplementation in aged individuals has been shown to reduce levels of circulating inflammatory cytokines, suggesting potential benefits for inflammatory conditions7.

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Adverse Effects of NADH

General Safety: Studies indicate that NADH is generally safe with no severe adverse effects reported. In a study involving patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, no severe adverse effects were observed related to the study drug2. Similarly, a 26-week chronic toxicity study in rats found no treatment-related clinical signs, mortality, or specific target organ toxicity5.

Body Weight Changes: In a study on rats, females treated with NADH gained significantly more body weight and consumed more food than controls during the second half of the treatment period5. This suggests a potential for weight gain in females with prolonged use.

Clinical Trials in Humans: In a study involving overweight or obese adults, adverse events were similar between the NADH and placebo groups, indicating no significant safety concerns1. Another study on patients with Parkinson’s disease also reported no significant adverse effects from NADH treatment4.

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How has NADH Improved Patient Outcomes?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Reduction in Fatigue and Symptom Severity: NADH supplementation has been associated with a significant reduction in fatigue perception and overall symptom severity in CFS patients. In one study, patients receiving NADH showed a dramatic reduction in symptom scores during the first trimester of treatment compared to conventional therapies3. Another study found that 31% of patients responded favorably to NADH, compared to 8% for placebo5.

Improvement in Quality of Life: Co-supplementation with CoQ10 and NADH significantly improved health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and reduced cognitive fatigue in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)1.

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)

Cognitive Functioning: NADH has been shown to stabilize cognitive functioning in AD patients. In a six-month study, patients treated with NADH exhibited no progressive cognitive deterioration and had significantly higher scores on the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (MDRS) compared to those receiving a placebo. Improvements were noted in verbal fluency, visual-constructional ability, and abstract verbal reasoning2.

Parkinson’s Disease

Limited Efficacy: In a small double-blind study, NADH treatment did not result in significant clinical or biochemical improvements in patients with moderate Parkinson’s disease4.

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NADH Mechanisms of Action

Electron Transport and Energy Production

Electron Donor in Redox Reactions: NADH functions as an electron donor in the electron transport chain (ETC) within mitochondria. It donates electrons to the ETC, which are then passed through a series of proteins, ultimately leading to the production of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation1.

Support for Monooxygenase Activities: NADH supports hepatic microsomal monooxygenase activities, such as aniline hydroxylase and ethylmorphine N-demethylase, although its effect is less pronounced compared to NADPH. This indicates its role in drug metabolism and detoxification processes in the liver1.

Regulation of Apoptosis

Inhibition of Apoptosis: NADH has been shown to inhibit apoptosis in human liver cells (L02) induced by ischemia-reperfusion injury. It achieves this by up-regulating the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and down-regulating pro-apoptotic proteins such as Bax, P53, CD95, and CD95L2.

Cellular Protection: By modulating these apoptosis-related proteins, NADH helps protect cells from damage and death, which is particularly important in conditions of cellular stress such as ischemia-reperfusion injury2.

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Common Complaints Associated with NADH Use

Gastrointestinal Issues

Some users report experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, bloating, and stomach cramps. These symptoms are relatively common with many supplements and can vary in intensity depending on the individual.

Headaches

Headaches are another frequently reported side effect. This could be due to the body’s adjustment to increased NADH levels or other underlying factors.

Insomnia

NADH is involved in energy production, and some users may experience increased alertness or difficulty sleeping, especially if taken later in the day.

Allergic Reactions

Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to NADH supplements, which can include symptoms like rash, itching, or swelling.

Mood Changes

There are occasional reports of mood swings or increased anxiety, which might be linked to the supplement’s impact on neurotransmitter levels.

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Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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