Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a naturally occurring form of vitamin B3 and a key precursor to NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a critical coenzyme involved in cellular energy production and DNA repair.
As an NAD+ booster, NR is valued for its ability to elevate intracellular NAD+ levels more efficiently than other B3 forms, supporting mitochondrial function—the cell’s energy powerhouse. This action enhances metabolic processes, aiding in combating age-related NAD+ decline, which is linked to reduced cellular vitality.
In supplements, NR is marketed for potential benefits: boosting energy levels, supporting cognitive function, and aiding metabolic health. In cosmetics, it’s incorporated into anti-aging formulations to revitalize skin cells, enhance collagen production, and mitigate oxidative damage from environmental stressors.
Research highlights its bioavailability and safety, though long-term studies on human efficacy are ongoing. Its versatility across wellness and skincare makes NR a prominent ingredient in products targeting cellular rejuvenation and overall vitality.
Benefits of NAD+
- Boosts NAD+ Levels: NR efficiently increases intracellular NAD+, which declines with age. This supports mitochondrial health—the "powerhouses" of cells—enhancing energy production and overall cellular vitality.
- Supports Metabolic Health: By aiding mitochondrial function, NR may improve glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and lipid regulation, potentially benefiting weight management and metabolic balance.
- Anti-Aging Potential: NAD+ is critical for DNA repair and activating sirtuins (proteins linked to longevity). NR’s ability to raise NAD+ levels is associated with mitigating age-related cellular damage, supporting skin health, and preserving cognitive function.
- Enhances Physical Performance: Improved mitochondrial efficiency from NR may boost endurance, reduce fatigue, and aid post-exercise recovery by optimizing energy use in muscles.
- Neurological Support: Emerging research suggests NR could protect neurons by maintaining NAD+ levels, potentially supporting brain health and reducing age-related cognitive decline.
NR Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action of nicotinamide riboside (NR) centers on its role as a key precursor for NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) biosynthesis, a critical coenzyme involved in cellular energy metabolism and stress responses.
Upon ingestion or topical application, NR is transported into cells via specific transporters (e.g., ENT1/2). Inside cells, it undergoes phosphorylation by kinases (e.g., NRK1/2) to form nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). NMN is then converted to NAD+ via NMN adenylyltransferases (NMNATs).
Elevated NAD+ levels activate sirtuins (SIRT1-7), a family of proteins that regulate DNA repair, mitochondrial function, and cellular aging. NAD+ also serves as a cofactor in redox reactions (e.g., glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation), supporting ATP production in mitochondria. Additionally, it acts as a substrate for PARPs (poly-ADP-ribose polymerases), enzymes critical for DNA damage repair.
By enhancing NAD+ availability, NR amplifies these pathways, promoting cellular resilience, energy metabolism, and stress resistance.
Advantages of NR
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Efficient NAD+ Boosting: NR is highly effective at elevating intracellular NAD+ levels, even at lower doses, compared to other B3 forms (e.g., niacin, nicotinamide). Its unique transport mechanisms (via specific transporters like ENT1/2) allow better cellular uptake, making it a potent NAD+ enhancer.
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Favorable Safety Profile: Unlike niacin, which often causes flushing or gastrointestinal discomfort, NR is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects, even at higher doses. This makes it suitable for long-term use in supplements and skincare.
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Targeted Cellular Support: By increasing NAD+, NR specifically enhances mitochondrial function (critical for energy production) and activates sirtuins (proteins regulating aging and DNA repair). This targeted action supports metabolic health, cognitive function, and anti-aging more precisely than broader antioxidants.
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Versatility: NR works across multiple systems—supporting muscle endurance, skin rejuvenation, and metabolic balance—making it adaptable for diverse applications, from dietary supplements to anti-aging cosmetics.
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Bioavailability: Its molecular structure allows efficient absorption and conversion to NAD+ in various tissues, ensuring consistent efficacy across different cell types and organs.
Key Technical Specifications
|
Parameter |
Details |
|
Chemical Name |
Nicotinamide Riboside |
|
CAS Number |
1341 - 23 - 7 |
|
Molecular Formula |
C₁₁H₁₆N₂O₅ |
|
Molecular Weight |
256.26 g/mol |
|
Appearance |
Usually appears as a white to off - white powder |
|
Purity |
High - quality products often have a purity of ≥98% (determined by HPLC, High - Performance Liquid Chromatography) |
|
Solubility |
Soluble in water and DMSO; Insoluble in ethanol |
|
Melting Point |
Precise melting point data may vary, but it is generally stable under normal storage conditions and may decompose under extreme heat |
|
Detection Method |
HPLC for purity analysis; Mass spectrometry can be used for identification and quantification |
|
Bioavailability |
Orally bioavailable, with relatively high absorption in the digestive tract, and can be rapidly converted to NAD⁺ in the body |
|
Applications |
- Dietary supplements to boost NAD⁺ levels- Functional foods and beverages- Cosmetics for anti - aging and skin rejuvenation purposes |
Appliacation:
- Anti-Aging Serums/Creams
- Skin Vitality Products
NR;Nicotinamide riboside chloride;Nicotinamide riboside
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