Nicotinamide Riboside Improves Wound Healing in Diabetes: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Poor wound healing is a common complication of diabetes, largely due to impaired blood vessel formation. This study found that nicotinamide riboside (NR), a vitamin B3 derivative and NAD+ booster, significantly improved wound healing in diabetic mice. After 12 weeks of NR supplementation, mice showed faster recovery and stronger angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth). NR also increased the number and function of endothelial precursor cells (EPCs)—the cells that repair blood vessels—enhancing their ability to form tubes and adhere to tissues. Mechanistically, NR activated the SIRT1–AMPK pathway, improving cellular energy balance and mitochondrial health. When SIRT1 or AMPK was blocked, NR’s healing benefits disappeared, confirming this pathway’s key role. These results suggest that oral NR supplementation could help enhance blood vessel repair and accelerate wound healing in people with diabetes, potentially preventing severe complications.

Journal

Frontiers in Pharmacology