Nicotinamide Riboside Improved Endurance in Mitochondrial Disease: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Mitochondrial disorders are rare but serious diseases caused by defects in the cell’s energy-producing machinery, known as the mitochondrial respiratory chain. These conditions often lead to severe fatigue, muscle weakness, and organ failure, with few effective treatments. Researchers found that boosting the cell’s ability to make new mitochondria—a process called mitochondrial biogenesis—can improve symptoms in animal models. In this study, scientists used nicotinamide riboside (NR), a form of vitamin B3 that increases NAD+, a molecule essential for energy metabolism and for activating Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a key regulator of mitochondrial health. Increasing NAD+ levels or reducing its breakdown in mice with a genetic mitochondrial defect improved their energy production and physical endurance. These results suggest that NAD-boosting therapies, such as NR supplementation, may offer a promising treatment approach for people living with mitochondrial diseases.

Journal

Cell Metabolism