From the Guidelines
NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) is a precursor to NAD+, playing a crucial role in cellular energy production, DNA repair, and sirtuin function, with potential anti-aging effects, as supported by the understanding of niacin's role in the body 1. When considering the role of NMN, it's essential to understand its relationship with NAD+, a coenzyme derived from niacin, which is vital for over 400 enzymatic reactions in the body, including energy metabolism, cholesterol and fat synthesis, DNA creation and repair, and antioxidant effects 1.
Key Points About NMN and NAD+
- NMN is converted to NAD+ in the body, supporting various cellular processes.
- NAD+ levels decline with age, and supplementing with NMN may help boost these levels.
- The optimal dose of NMN supplements is not definitively established, with common doses ranging from 250mg to 1000mg daily.
- Preliminary animal research suggests NMN may improve metabolism, physical endurance, and potentially extend lifespan, but human clinical trials are limited.
- NMN enters cells through specific transporters and converts to NAD+, supporting mitochondrial function and cellular resilience against age-related decline. Given the information from the espen micronutrient guideline 1, while NMN itself is not directly mentioned, understanding the critical role of NAD+ and its precursors in cellular health provides insight into the potential benefits and mechanisms of NMN supplementation.
Considerations for NMN Supplementation
- The current state of research on NMN is largely based on animal studies, with a need for more comprehensive human clinical trials to establish efficacy and safety.
- The conversion of NMN to NAD+ and its subsequent effects on cellular health and aging processes is an area of ongoing research.
- As with any supplement, consulting a healthcare professional before starting NMN is recommended, especially to discuss potential interactions with medications or underlying health conditions.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Definition of NMN
- NMN stands for Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, a precursor in the biosynthesis of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) 2, 3, 4
- NAD+ is a vital molecule that plays a crucial role in various cellular processes, including metabolic pathways, DNA repair, and immune cell activities 2
Role of NMN in Aging
- NMN has gained attention for its anti-aging properties, as it can slow down the decline in NAD+ levels associated with aging 2, 3
- The decline in NAD+ levels with aging impairs tissue function, leading to age-related diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and endothelial dysfunction 2, 3, 4
- NMN supplementation has been shown to improve age-related diseases and potentially delay death in model organisms 2
Mechanism of NMN
- NMN can elevate NAD+ levels in the body, which can help to maintain cellular homeostasis and prevent age-related diseases 3
- NMN has been shown to activate the p-AMPK/KLF4 pathway, which can help to mitigate vascular smooth muscle cell senescence 5
- NMN can also promote NAD+ biosynthesis and increase intracellular levels, which can help to reverse physiological decline and prevent diseases 4
Safety and Efficacy of NMN Supplementation
- NMN supplementation has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated in healthy middle-aged adults, with no significant adverse effects reported 6
- NMN supplementation has been shown to increase blood NAD concentrations and improve physical performance, with the highest efficacy observed at a dose of 600 mg daily oral intake 6
- NMN supplementation has also been shown to improve subjective general health assessment and reduce blood biological age 6