A new concept of NAD and NMN?

 

As we age, our bodies will gradually show various signs of aging, such as sagging skin, decreased physical strength, memory loss, etc. Behind these aging phenomena, there is an important molecule hidden - NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). NAD is a coenzyme present in all cells. It plays a key role in cell energy metabolism, DNA repair and cell stress response. However, with age, NAD levels gradually decrease, and this change is considered to be an important driving force of aging. Fortunately, scientists have discovered a molecule called NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) in the process of studying NAD, which may be the key to delaying aging and prolonging life.

NAD: The guardian of cell energy and health

NAD plays an extremely important role in cells. It participates in the energy metabolism process of cells, helps mitochondria (the energy factory of cells) produce ATP, and provides energy for cells. In addition, NAD is also involved in DNA repair and maintains the genetic stability of cells. When NAD levels decrease, the energy metabolism and DNA repair ability of cells will be seriously affected, leading to cell function decline, which in turn causes aging and various diseases.

NMN: NAD's "Supply Station"

NMN is a key intermediate in the synthesis of NAD. Scientists have found that by supplementing NMN, the level of NAD in cells can be effectively increased, thereby delaying the aging process. The transportation and utilization of NMN in the body are very efficient. It can enter cells through a transporter called Slc12a8 and is quickly converted into NAD to participate in various metabolic activities of cells. This discovery brings new hope to anti-aging research.

NAD New Concept Model

Researchers have proposed a new conceptual model, NAD World 3.0, to explain the mechanism of action of NAD and NMN in aging and longevity. In this model, multiple key tissues in the body (such as the hypothalamus, skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and small intestine) interact through NAD synthesis mediated by NMN and eNAMPT (extracellular nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase), forming a multi-layer feedback loop regulatory network. For example, the small intestine absorbs NMN through Slc12a8 and transports it to various tissues throughout the body; eNAMPT secreted by adipose tissue is transported to target cells through extracellular vesicles (EVs) to enhance the synthesis of NAD. These feedback loops play an important role in maintaining the body's physiological functions and delaying the aging process.

From the laboratory to the clinic: the anti-aging potential of NMN

The anti-aging potential of NMN has been verified in animal experiments. Studies have shown that supplementing NMN can improve a variety of physiological functions in elderly mice, such as enhancing muscle strength, improving energy metabolism, and improving cognitive function. In addition, NMN can also prolong the lifespan of elderly mice. These findings provide strong support for the application of NMN as an anti-aging intervention. At present, scientists are actively exploring the application prospects of NMN in humans. Although NMN has shown good anti-aging effects in animal experiments, its effects and safety in humans still need to be further verified. Future research will focus on issues such as the mechanism of action of NMN in different populations, the optimal dose, and the safety of long-term use.

The study of NAD and NMN has revealed the mystery of aging for us, and also provided us with new ideas for delaying aging and prolonging life. Increasing NAD levels by supplementing NMN may be an effective anti-aging strategy. However, research in this field is still developing, and we need more scientific evidence to support the anti-aging application of NMN. In the future, with a deeper understanding of the mechanism of action of NAD and NMN, and the continuous advancement of related clinical research, we are expected to find safer and more effective anti-aging methods so that humans can spend their later years in good health.

References:

Imai S. NAD World 3.0: the importance of the NMN transporter and eNAMPT in mammalian aging and longevity control[J]. npj Aging, 2025, 11(1): 4.

*Special note - This article is for informational purposes only and cannot replace a doctor's treatment diagnosis and advice. It should not be regarded as a recommendation or proof of efficacy of the medical products involved. If it involves disease diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, please be sure to go to a professional medical institution to seek professional advice.

by GSHWORLD

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