What is NMN?
Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a naturally occurring molecule found in the cells of all living organisms. At the molecular level, NMN is a type of molecule classified as a nucleotide, which is a building block for RNA and DNA.
NMN's structure comprises three chemical groups:
- Phosphate group
- Ribose sugar
- Nicotinamide base
Once inside the body, NMN is directly converted into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). For this reason, NMN is also called an NAD+ booster, as it raises NAD+ levels.
How Does the Body Synthesize NMN?
NMN is synthesized in the body from Vitamin B by an enzyme called nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase (NAMPT). NAMPT combines nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) with a sugar phosphate called PRPP (5’-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate).
Additionally, NMN can also be created from nicotinamide riboside (NR) by adding a phosphate group.
NAMPT is a rate-limiting enzyme in NAD+ production, meaning low NAMPT levels reduce NMN production and subsequently lower NAD+ levels. Supplementing with NMN helps accelerate NAD+ production.
Benefits of NMN
- Slows Aging
NAD+ serves as fuel for sirtuins, proteins that maintain genome integrity and repair DNA. Sirtuins require NAD+ to function effectively, supporting longevity. - Improves Metabolic Disorders
NAD+ is crucial for maintaining mitochondrial function and energy production. Aging and high-fat diets deplete NAD+ levels, impairing metabolism. Research suggests that NAD+ boosters can reduce age- and diet-related weight gain in mice and enhance physical performance.
- Supports Heart Function
Increasing NAD+ levels helps protect the heart and enhance its performance. High blood pressure can cause heart enlargement and vascular blockages, leading to ischemic conditions. NAD+ helps mitigate these risks.
- Reduces Neurodegeneration
Boosting NAD+ levels preserves brain cells, even in cases of reduced blood flow to the brain. Animal studies indicate that higher NAD+ levels may prevent neural decline, maintain brain health with age, and improve memory.
- Enhances Immune System
As we age, immune function declines, making it harder to recover from illnesses like seasonal flu or COVID-19.
Recent studies suggest that NAD+ plays a critical role in regulating inflammation and cell survival during immune responses. With age, maintaining NAD+ levels could help mitigate immune system disorders and support overall health.
