Nicotinamide Riboside Protects Against Chronic Kidney Disease by Boosting Metabolism: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) impairs kidney metabolism, including fatty acid breakdown, and is linked to low NAD+ levels. This study tested nicotinamide riboside (NR), a precursor of NAD+, in a mouse model of Alport syndrome. NR restored fatty acid oxidation in kidney proximal tubule cells and activated protective metabolic pathways, improving kidney function in both male and female mice. Advanced RNA sequencing and imaging confirmed that NR specifically targeted proximal tubule cells, and the study also revealed sex-related differences in gene responses. Overall, NR supplementation protects kidneys in CKD by boosting NAD+ and normalizing metabolism in key kidney cells.

Journal

JCI Insight