Description
What is NAD+?
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a critical coenzyme found in all living cells. It is fundamental to cellular metabolism, acting as a key electron carrier in redox reactions that generate ATP, the cell’s primary energy currency. Beyond its metabolic role, NAD+ is a vital substrate for several enzyme families, including sirtuins, PARPs, and CD38, which regulate a vast array of cellular processes such as DNA repair, gene expression, and immune function. Research has unequivocally shown that intracellular NAD+ levels decline with age and during metabolic stress, a phenomenon linked to the hallmarks of aging and numerous age-related diseases. This has spurred intense scientific and public interest in strategies to boost NAD+ levels, primarily through precursor supplementation (e.g., NMN, NR) or direct administration, with the goal of promoting healthspan and mitigating age-associated functional decline.
Physiological Benefits
- ✔Enhanced Cellular Energy and Metabolism: By optimizing the NAD+/NADH ratio, higher NAD+ levels support efficient mitochondrial function, leading to improved ATP production, metabolic flexibility, and insulin sensitivity.
- ✔DNA Repair and Genomic Stability: Provides the necessary fuel for PARPs and Sirtuins to efficiently repair DNA damage, protecting against mutations that can lead to cancer and cellular senescence.
- ✔Neuroprotection and Cognitive Function: Supports neuronal health by maintaining mitochondrial energy production, promoting DNA repair, and reducing neuroinflammation. Studies suggest benefits in models of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and age-related cognitive decline.
- ✔Cardiovascular Health: Improves endothelial function, reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels, and protects cardiac muscle from ischemic injury in preclinical models.
- ✔Sirtuin Activation and Anti-Aging Effects: Directly fuels sirtuins, which orchestrate many of the cellular defense mechanisms associated with longevity, mimicking some of the effects of caloric restriction.
- ✔Reduced Inflammation: SIRT1 activation inhibits the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB. Healthy NAD+ levels help modulate the immune system and prevent the chronic, low-grade inflammation (“inflammaging”) associated with aging.
- ✔Improved Muscle Function and Endurance: Boosts mitochondrial biogenesis and function in skeletal muscle, which can enhance physical performance, strength, and recovery from exercise, particularly in older individuals.
- ✔Stem Cell Rejuvenation: Preclinical studies show that restoring NAD+ levels can rejuvenate mitochondrial function in stem cells, improving their ability to regenerate and repair tissues.
- ✔Metabolic Syndrome Management: Animal and early human studies show potential for improving glucose tolerance, reducing fatty liver (NAFLD), and supporting healthy weight management.
- ✔Support for Circadian Rhythms: NAD+ levels naturally oscillate on a 24-hour cycle and are crucial for the function of core clock proteins like CLOCK and BMAL1, helping to maintain a robust sleep-wake cycle.
Use Cases
The primary use case. Supplementing with precursors like NR or NMN is used to counteract the natural decline in NAD+ levels, aiming to improve vitality, reduce frailty, and support overall healthspan.
As an adjunct therapy in conditions like Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), and in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease to support neuronal energy and repair.
For individuals with insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to improve metabolic parameters.
Used by athletes to potentially enhance endurance, reduce recovery time, and support muscle repair and mitochondrial efficiency. Subcutaneous or oral precursors are preferred.
To support cellular energy demands during healing, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration.
High-dose IV NAD+ infusions are used in private clinics to help manage withdrawal symptoms from alcohol and opioids. The proposed mechanism involves restoring neurotransmitter balance and cellular energy in the brain. This use is still largely clinical and anecdotal.
As a preventative measure to support endothelial function and protect against age-related vascular stiffness and damage.
To help reset the internal body clock by supporting the NAD+-dependent circadian machinery.
Anecdotally used to improve mental clarity and physical energy in individuals experiencing unexplained fatigue, possibly by restoring mitochondrial function.
Following significant physiological stress, such as a severe illness or infection, to replenish NAD+ pools depleted by heightened immune and repair activity.
Common Research Protocols
⚠ Research Use Only
The following data is for educational purposes only. Lanna Peptides compounds are not for human consumption.
| Route | Form/Protocol | Typical Dosage Range | Frequency | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intravenous (IV) | NAD+ Infusion | 250 mg – 1000 mg | Varies (e.g., once weekly or intensive 3-10 day protocols) | Must be administered slowly (over 2-4 hours) to minimize side effects like nausea and chest pressure. Common for addiction recovery or acute replenishment. | |
| Subcutaneous (SubQ) | NAD+ Injection | 25 mg – 100 mg | 1-3 times per week | A newer, more convenient method than IV. Often well-tolerated at lower volumes. |
Need more technical data?
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