Article Title
The Safety and Antiaging Effects of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide in Human Clinical Trials: an Update
Abstract Summary
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a molecule that plays a critical role in human physiology. Its levels in various human tissues, such as skin, blood, liver, muscle, and brain, are believed to decline with age. Raising NAD+ concentrations might potentially impact the aging process and the issues accompanying it. One such method to boost NAD+ is by supplementing Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), a precursor for NAD+ production. Laboratory and animal studies have suggested that NMN can increase NAD+ levels and possibly counteract age-associated challenges like oxidative stress, DNA damage, neurodegeneration, and inflammation.
Consequently, NMN has gained attention as a possible antiaging supplement. However, most of these promising findings are from cell or animal studies, leading to concerns about the safety and effects of NMN in humans. Currently, several human clinical trials are exploring NMN supplementation. This article aims to provide an overview of the progress of these trials and delve into the biology of NMN/NAD+, to understand NMN's potential benefits and highlight areas for future research.
Is NMN A Safe Supplement?
NAD+, a molecule vital for numerous processes like metabolism, aging, and DNA repair, naturally dwindles with age, leading to age-related diseases and cognitive decline. NMN, a precursor to NAD+, offers a potential solution by replenishing NAD+ levels and is now spotlighted in anti-aging health and cosmetics. However, its effects and safety, primarily gleaned from animal studies, need further exploration in humans.
Highlights from NMN Supplement Research Trials
- Safety: Ten human trials, varying in dosage, length, and participant demographics, consistently affirmed NMN's safety.
- Age Demographic: Predominantly tested in individuals over 55, the efficacy and benefits for younger individuals remain relatively uncharted.
- Potential Concerns: Despite its general safety in clinical trials, other studies hint at possible adverse effects. For instance, NMN might amplify certain inflammatory responses in cells and even escalate pancreatic cancer progression in mice.
Assessments & Observations
- Sleep and Fatigue: NMN's influence on sleep quality among elderly individuals showed no significant change post-supplementation.
- Physical Performance:
- Older men exhibited enhanced speed and strength, suggesting NMN might counteract age-related muscle dysfunction.
- Noteworthy improvements in physical performance among older adults after NMN intake were limited to specific strength tests.
- Endurance & Athletic Performance: NMN showed potential in boosting athletic performance in middle-aged recreational runners, though its effect on walking endurance in another age group wasn't statistically impactful.
- Diabetes & Insulin Sensitivity: NMN was linked to increased muscle insulin sensitivity in postmenopausal women with prediabetes.
- Anti-Aging Indicators: NMN might play a role in lengthening telomeres, often regarded as aging markers. A study with middle-aged men saw a near doubling of telomere length post NMN supplementation.
The Road Ahead
Numerous trials are underway, focusing on NMN's safety and its potential effects on various health conditions and physical attributes. Investigations on its anti-aging prowess continue, delving into aspects like skin texture and aging markers.
However, caution is paramount. The need for extensive, well-structured trials looms large. NMN's long-term effects, influence on different body systems, and exact operational mechanism within the human body warrant further research.
References
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2161831323013595?via%3Dihub
