What Is NAD+?
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme found in every living cell. Discovered in 1906 by Arthur Harden and William John Young, it is essential for cellular energy production (ATP synthesis), DNA repair, and gene regulation. Without NAD+, cells cannot survive.
Why NAD+ Declines With Age
Research has shown that NAD+ levels decline by approximately 50% between ages 40–60. This decline is associated with reduced sirtuin enzyme activity (SIRT1-SIRT7), impaired PARP-mediated DNA repair, and mitochondrial dysfunction. The cause of this decline involves increased CD38 enzyme activity that consumes NAD+.
Key Research Areas
- Sirtuin activation — NAD+ is the required substrate for all 7 sirtuin enzymes involved in chromatin remodeling and metabolic regulation
- PARP enzymes — NAD+ fuels poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases critical for DNA damage repair
- Mitochondrial function — NAD+ is required for Complex I of the electron transport chain
- NAD+ precursors — NMN and NR (nicotinamide riboside) are being studied as supplements to boost NAD+ levels
Cited Sources
- According to Imai, S. & Guarente, L. (2014). "NAD+ and sirtuins in aging and disease." Trends in Cell Biology, 24(8), 464-471. [PubMed]
- According to Rajman, L. et al. (2018). "Therapeutic potential of NAD-boosting molecules." Cell Metabolism, 27(3), 529-547. [PubMed]
- According to Verdin, E. (2015). "NAD+ in aging, metabolism, and neurodegeneration." Science, 350(6265), 1208-1213. [PubMed]