%20is%20a%20genetic%20disorder%20that%20damages%20the%20cerebellum%20and%20impairs%20movement.%20Researchers%20found%20that%20in%20SCA7%20mice,%20key%20genes%20controlling%20calcium%20in%20cerebell...){kind=link}
Increasing NAD+ with Nicotinamide Riboside Protects Neurons in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 7: Preclinical Findings
Synopsis
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 (SCA7) is a genetic disorder that damages the cerebellum and impairs movement. Researchers found that in SCA7 mice, key genes controlling calcium in cerebellar neurons were downregulated, leading to abnormal neuronal activity, and that this was linked to reduced activity of Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), a protein that depends on NAD+ to protect neurons. SCA7 patient neurons showed similar changes, including signs of overactive DNA repair enzymes. Increasing Sirt1 levels in mice or boosting NAD+ with nicotinamide riboside (NR) improved calcium signaling and reduced neurodegeneration. This shows that Sirt1 protects neurons by regulating calcium, and that NAD+ deficiency contributes to SCA7, suggesting that therapies targeting NAD+ metabolism may help treat cerebellar ataxias.
Journal
Neuron