NAD+ Precursor Supplementation Enhances Metabolic Efficiency and Antibody Production: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

This study explored how NAD+ precursors can enhance productivity in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, which are widely used to produce therapeutic antibodies. Previous research showed that adding NAD+ directly to cell cultures improved metabolism by reducing the Warburg effect—the tendency of cells to rely on glycolysis even in oxygen-rich conditions—and boosted oxidative phosphorylation, leading to higher antibody yields. To find a more cost-effective solution, researchers tested four NAD+ precursors: nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), nicotinic acid (NA), nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide (NAM). All precursors increased intracellular NAD+ levels by up to 70%, improved energy metabolism, and enhanced antibody productivity, with NR, NMN, and NA showing results comparable to direct NAD+ supplementation. However, none outperformed NAD+ itself, likely due to reduced nucleoside availability and lower ATP levels. The findings highlight a promising and economical way to optimize CHO cell culture media using NAD+ precursors to boost antibody manufacturing efficiency in biopharmaceutical production.

Journal

Biotechnology Journal