NAD+
A naturally occurring coenzyme central to cellular energy metabolism, studied for mitochondrial function, sirtuin activation, and cellular aging research.
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What is NAD+?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a naturally occurring coenzyme found in all living cells, where it serves as a central electron carrier in cellular metabolism and as a substrate for several classes of enzymes that consume it as part of their catalytic activity. It is not a peptide in the conventional sense but is included in peptide and bioactive compound catalogs due to its prominent role in metabolic research and the substantial research interest in NAD+ delivery strategies. NAD+ exists in two main forms in cells: the oxidized form (NAD+) and the reduced form (NADH), which together form the primary redox couple driving cellular energy metabolism.
NAD+ is notable in research because cellular NAD+ levels decline substantially with age and in various disease states, driving extensive research interest in strategies to restore NAD+ levels. The molecule serves as substrate for sirtuins (longevity-associated deacetylase enzymes), PARP enzymes (DNA repair), and CD38 (immune signaling), positioning it at the intersection of multiple aging-related research domains. Direct NAD+ administration faces delivery challenges since the intact molecule does not efficiently cross cell membranes, driving development of NAD+ precursors including NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside).
Mechanism of action
- Electron transport and ATP production: NAD+ accepts electrons during catabolic reactions (becoming NADH), then donates them at complex I of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, driving ATP synthesis through oxidative phosphorylation.
- Sirtuin activation: NAD+ serves as the essential substrate for sirtuin enzymes (SIRT1-SIRT7), which deacetylate histone and non-histone proteins to regulate gene expression, metabolism, and stress responses, with sirtuin activity declining when NAD+ levels are low.
- PARP-mediated DNA repair: Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase enzymes consume NAD+ during DNA damage response, with chronic DNA damage potentially depleting cellular NAD+ pools through sustained PARP activation.
- CD38 NADase activity: The CD38 enzyme, whose activity increases with age and inflammation, consumes NAD+ at high rates, contributing to age-related NAD+ decline.
- Cellular redox state regulation: The NAD+/NADH ratio is a critical indicator of cellular metabolic state, with its maintenance affecting fatty acid oxidation, glycolysis, and other metabolic pathways.
These pathways are characterized in extensive biochemistry research and increasingly in human clinical research.
Research applications
NAD+ has been investigated across several research domains, with the most active areas including:
- Aging research: The decline in cellular NAD+ levels with age has been documented in multiple tissues including liver, muscle, brain, and skin. Research has examined whether restoration of NAD+ levels affects aging trajectories and age-related dysfunction across these tissues.
- Mitochondrial function research: Studies have examined NAD+’s role in mitochondrial biogenesis, function, and quality control, with research interest in conditions of mitochondrial dysfunction including metabolic syndrome, neurodegeneration, and certain inherited mitochondrial diseases.
- Neurodegeneration research: Models of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative conditions have examined effects of NAD+ restoration on disease markers and outcomes, drawing on the importance of NAD+ for neuronal energy metabolism.
- Metabolic disease research: Research has examined NAD+ and its precursors in models of obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and metabolic syndrome, with findings suggesting effects on insulin sensitivity and metabolic flexibility.
- Cellular reprogramming and rejuvenation research: NAD+ is studied within emerging fields examining whether cellular age can be partially reversed through restoration of youthful metabolic states, with sirtuin activation as a key downstream effect.
This compound is intended for laboratory research use only. It has not been approved for human therapeutic use by any regulatory agency.
Storage & reconstitution
In its lyophilized form, NAD+ should be stored at -20°C, protected from light and moisture. The compound is more sensitive to oxidation and hydrolysis than typical peptides. Properly stored lyophilized NAD+ remains stable for 24 months or longer.
Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water for injection, NAD+ solutions should be stored refrigerated at 2-8°C and used within 7-14 days due to relative instability in solution. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can accelerate degradation.
Visual inspection should be performed before each use. The reconstituted solution should be clear and colorless to pale yellow. Reject any solution that appears cloudy, has darkened significantly, or contains visible particulate matter.
For step-by-step reconstitution calculations, see our reconstitution calculator.
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For laboratory research use only. The compound described on this page is intended exclusively for in vitro research and laboratory experimentation by qualified researchers and is not for human or veterinary use. It is not a drug, food, dietary supplement, or cosmetic, and has not been approved by the FDA, Health Canada, EMA, or any other regulatory authority for the diagnosis, treatment, cure, mitigation, or prevention of any disease or medical condition. The information provided on this page is for educational and reference purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. By accessing this content you confirm that you are a qualified researcher purchasing for legitimate laboratory purposes.