NAD+, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in various biological processes. It is found in all living cells and is involved in energy metabolism and cellular signaling.
NAD+ functions as an electron carrier, participating in redox reactions in the cell. It can exist in two forms: oxidized (NAD+) and reduced (NADH). NAD+ accepts electrons from other molecules and becomes reduced to NADH, which can then donate those electrons to other molecules.
One of the primary functions of NAD+ is its involvement in cellular respiration, where it plays a vital role in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to generate energy. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes called dehydrogenases, which catalyze the transfer of electrons during these metabolic processes.
Beyond its role in energy metabolism, NAD+ is also a key player in cellular processes like DNA repair, gene expression, and regulation of cellular stress responses. It is involved in various enzymatic reactions, including those related to sirtuins, a family of proteins associated with aging and longevity.
As we age NAD+ diminish. As it declines one might feel frequent fatigue, have metabolic disorders, start gaining weight, and have other age-related disorders and inflammations. This can be associated with cancer, diabetes, heart disease, neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, dementia), and autoimmune disorders (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel, and multiple sclerosis).