NAD+
🧩 The Breakthrough
Scientists at Chiba University have achieved a major milestone in longevity research — demonstrating for the first time that a vitamin B3-derived compound, nicotinamide riboside (NR), can counteract the effects of premature aging in humans.
NR works by elevating NAD⁺, a vital molecule responsible for cellular energy, DNA repair, and metabolic balance. While boosting NAD⁺ has long extended lifespan and health in animal studies, this marks one of the strongest clinical confirmations of its benefits in people.
⚗️ Inside the Study
The clinical trial targeted individuals suffering from Werner syndrome — a rare genetic disorder that accelerates aging, causing early graying, hair loss, diabetes, and painful skin ulcers often leading to amputations. To date, no effective therapy existed.
Participants received either NR or a placebo for 26 weeks, followed by a crossover for another 26 weeks. Researchers assessed NAD⁺ concentrations, vascular health, wound healing, and kidney performance.
Results were striking:
- NAD⁺ levels rose safely and consistently in the bloodstream
- Artery flexibility improved, reducing cardiovascular strain
- Skin ulcers diminished in size, and kidney health was preserved
- No serious adverse effects were recorded
These findings point to NAD⁺ depletion as a key factor in early aging, and suggest that restoring NAD⁺ may help repair multiple organ systems simultaneously.
💊 Why It Matters
NR, already sold as a vitamin B3 supplement, has been researched for its ability to enhance energy metabolism, muscle performance, and inflammation control.
This new trial strengthens the human evidence base: supporting NAD⁺ could help slow biological aging and restore vitality even in extreme cases.
🧬 Researcher’s Perspective
“By elevating NAD⁺ with NR, we observed measurable improvements in cardiovascular, skin, and kidney health. These results open new possibilities for both rare disorders and healthy aging.”
— Dr. Masaya Koshizaka, Chiba University.
