Increasing NAD+ with NR Protects Against Aortic Aneurysms: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Researchers found that weakened mitochondrial function in blood vessel walls contributes to aortic aneurysms and ruptures, which can cause sudden death. In mice prone to atherosclerosis and hypertension, reduced mitochondrial respiration and protein levels were observed in vascular smooth muscle cells, similar to those seen in human aneurysms. When these mice were treated with nicotinamide riboside (NR), which increases NAD+ and enhances mitochondrial energy production, the development of aortic aneurysms and fatal ruptures was significantly reduced. The results suggest that improving mitochondrial metabolism with NAD+ boosters like NR may be a promising way to prevent deadly aortic ruptures in patients at risk.

Journal

Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology