While we may not be doctors or scientists, we are avid researchers who religiously follow the longevity space. The conventional wisdom as to what causes aging and our ability to fight it is shifting rapidly as science uncovers ways in which the body can counteract with naturally occurring compounds.

We decided it was time to create a meticulously crafted product, using the latest findings from cutting edge research, with ingredients that have compelling results. Read on to learn more about our hallmark ingredient and the essential functions and processes it supports in our daily life. 

What is NAD+?

NAD+, also known as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and is one of the most critical molecules in our body for helping us generate cells. It was first discovered by scientists in 1906, and since then its function and importance in our body's everyday activities has been closely studied. NAD+ not only performs basic metabolic activities such as converting nutrients to energy, but it also specializes in the maintenance of our DNA integrity to ensure our cells function properly and protects our bodies from aging and disease.

Why is it important?

NAD+ feeds into many critical functions of our cells and body. NAD+ helps transfer electrons from one molecule to another within cells to carry out a wide host of reactions and processes. Without sufficient NAD+ levels, our cells wouldn’t be able to generate any energy to survive and carry out their functions.

In the 1960s, French scientist Pierre Chambon identified a process called Poly ADP-ribosylation, where NAD+ is broken down into two component parts, one of which (nicotinamide) gets recycled, while the other (ADP-ribose) meets up with a protein. This research formed the foundation of the field of PARPs, or poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases, a group of proteins that rely on NAD+ to function and perform cellular functions. PARPs are similar to another group of proteins called sirtuins in that they both only function in the presence of NAD+.

Known as the “guardians of genomes,” sirtuins are genes that protect organisms, from plants to mammals, against deterioration and diseases. When the genes sense the body is under physical stress, such as exercising or hunger, it sends out troops to defend the body. Sirtuins sustain genome integrity, promote DNA repair and have shown anti-aging related properties in model animals like increasing lifespan.

NAD+ is the fuel that drives the genes to work. But like a car cannot drive without its fuel, sirtuins require NAD+. Results from studies show that raising NAD+ level in the body activates sirtuins and increases lifespan in yeast, worms, and mice. Although NAD+ replenishing shows promising results in animal models, scientists are still studying how these results can translate to humans.

NAD+ declines with age

The body does not have an endless supply of NAD+ and as we age, NAD+ levels fall. This has important implications for metabolic functioning and age-related diseases, as we know that DNA damage accumulates and accelerates with age. According to David Sinclair, Harvard University's leading longevity researcher, “As we get older, we lose NAD+. By the time you’re 50, you have about half the level you once had when you were 20."

According to the plots above, reductions in NAD+ are seen as both men (left) and women (right) age. Here, the red line “a” represents how NAD+ levels change over a lifetime, and the blue where line “b” only takes into account NAD+ level changes post-puberty.

Numerous studies demonstrate reduced NAD+ levels in disturbed nutrient conditions, such as obesity, and aging. Reductions in NAD+ levels can lead to problems with metabolism. These problems can lead to disorders, including obesity and insulin resistance. Obesity causes diabetes and high blood pressure.

What is NMN?

NMN stands for nicotinamide mononucleotide, a molecule naturally occurring in all life forms. At the molecular level, it is a ribo-nucleotide, which is a basic structural unit of the nucleic acid RNA. Structurally, the molecule is composed of a nicotinamide group, a ribose and a phosphate group. NMN is the direct precursor of the essential molecule nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) and is considered a key component to increase NAD+ levels in cells.

Supplementing with NMN to increase NAD+

Healthy levels of NAD+ are thought to be restored by supplementation with NAD+ precursors.  According to research, precursors such as NMN and nicotinamide riboside (NR) are viewed as supplements of NAD+ production, increasing concentrations of NAD+.

David Sinclair, a NAD+ researcher from Harvard, says, “Feeding or administering NAD+ directly to organisms is not a practical option. The NAD+ molecule cannot readily cross cell membranes to enter cells, and therefore would be unavailable to positively affect metabolism. Instead, precursor molecules to NAD+ must be used to increase bioavailable levels of NAD+.” 

This means NAD+ cannot be used as a direct supplement, because it is not easily absorbed. NAD+ precursors are more easily absorbed than NAD+ and are more effective supplements. 

Source: NMN.com 

For additional research and the latest findings, read the articles listed below.

ARTICLES

Shade, C.: The Science Behind NMN–A Stable, Reliable NAD+Activator and Anti-Aging Molecule

Irie, J. et. al: Effect of oral administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide on clinical parameters and nicotinamide metabolite levels in healthy Japanese men

Liao, B. et. al: Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation enhances aerobic capacity in amateur runners: a randomized, double-blind study

Martens, C. R. et. al: Chronic nicotinamide riboside supplementation is well-tolerated and elevates NAD+ in healthy middle-aged and older adults

Nadeeshani, H. et. al: Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) as an anti-aging health product – Promises and safety concerns

Kawamura, T. et. al: β-Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, an Anti-Aging Candidate Compound, Is Retained in the Body for Longer than Nicotinamide in Rats

Yoshino, J. et. al: NAD + Intermediates: The Biology and Therapeutic Potential of NMN and NR

Hong, W. et. al: Nicotinamide Mononucleotide: A Promising Molecule for Therapy of Diverse Diseases by Targeting NAD+ Metabolism

Kulikova, V. et. al: Degradation of Extracellular NAD+ Intermediates in Cultures of Human HEK293 Cells

Das, A. et. al: Impairment of an Endothelial NAD+-H2S Signaling Network Is a Reversible Cause of Vascular Aging

Yoshino, M. et. al: Nicotinamide mononucleotide increases muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic women