Nicotinomide riboside
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Nicotinamide Riboside: Current Research and Therapeutic Potential
Introduction to Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a crucial coenzyme involved in various metabolic processes. As a member of the vitamin B-3 family, NR has garnered significant attention for its potential health benefits, particularly in the context of metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative disorders.
NR and Metabolic Health
Effects on Insulin Sensitivity and Glucose Metabolism
Despite promising results from animal studies, human trials have shown mixed outcomes regarding NR's impact on metabolic health. A 12-week clinical trial involving obese, insulin-resistant men found that NR supplementation did not improve insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, or body composition. Similarly, another study reported no significant effects on insulin sensitivity or mitochondrial function in overweight and obese individuals after six weeks of NR supplementation.
Body Composition and Energy Metabolism
While NR did not significantly alter insulin sensitivity, some studies noted minor changes in body composition and energy metabolism. For instance, NR supplementation increased fat-free mass and sleeping metabolic rate in obese individuals. Additionally, NR has been shown to enhance cellular NAD+ levels, which may contribute to improved muscle quality and function in animal models.
Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Benefits
Cardiometabolic Risk Factors
NR has demonstrated potential in reducing cardiometabolic risk factors. In obese Wistar rats, NR supplementation reduced body weight gain, improved insulin resistance, and decreased triglyceride/HDL ratios. Furthermore, NR enhanced cardiac antioxidant capacity and reduced oxidative stress markers. These findings suggest that NR may offer cardioprotective benefits, particularly in the context of obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Neuroprotective Effects
NR's ability to elevate NAD+ levels has also been linked to neuroprotective effects. Increased NAD+ content supports mitochondrial function and cellular energy metabolism, which are critical for maintaining neuronal health. Although more research is needed, preliminary studies indicate that NR may help mitigate neurodegenerative conditions by enhancing cellular resilience and reducing oxidative stress.
NR and Inflammation
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
NR has shown promise in reducing inflammation, a key factor in many chronic diseases. Clinical trials have reported significant reductions in inflammatory markers such as IL-6 and IL-18 following NR supplementation. These anti-inflammatory effects may be particularly beneficial for aging populations, where chronic inflammation, or "inflammaging," is prevalent.
Intestinal Health and Microbiome Modulation
Research on NR's impact on intestinal health has revealed alterations in brush border membrane functionality and bacterial populations. NR and its derivatives increased the expression of digestive proteins and beneficial gut bacteria, suggesting potential benefits for gut health and overall metabolic function.
Safety and Bioavailability
Safety Profile
NR supplementation has been generally well-tolerated in human trials, with no serious adverse events reported. Safety assessments have shown normal blood test results, even at higher doses. However, the long-term safety and optimal dosing of NR require further investigation.
Bioavailability Challenges
One of the challenges in translating NR to therapeutic use is its bioavailability. NR is readily metabolized, which can limit its effectiveness. Recent studies have focused on developing NR derivatives and conjugates that are more stable and resistant to enzymatic degradation, potentially enhancing their therapeutic potential .
Conclusion
Nicotinamide riboside holds significant promise as a therapeutic agent for various metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative conditions. While human trials have shown mixed results, the potential benefits of NR, particularly in reducing inflammation and improving cellular energy metabolism, warrant further research. Addressing bioavailability challenges and conducting more extensive clinical trials will be crucial in fully realizing NR's therapeutic potential.
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