Nicotinamide Riboside Protects Against Experimental Necrotizing Enterocolitis: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a life-threatening intestinal disease that affects newborns, often due to oxidative stress and poor blood flow in the gut. This study found that nicotinamide riboside (NR)—a vitamin B3 derivative that boosts NAD+ levels—can significantly reduce intestinal injury in a mouse model of NEC. NR treatment increased NAD+, improved intestinal microcirculation, and reduced oxidative stress by activating the SIRT1–eNOS pathway, which enhances nitric oxide production and protects blood vessels. However, these benefits were not seen in mice lacking the eNOS enzyme, confirming its importance in NR’s protective effects. In cell experiments, NR also reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and improved endothelial cell function under inflammatory stress. These findings suggest that NR supplementation may help prevent or treat NEC by restoring healthy blood flow and reducing oxidative damage in the intestines.

Journal

Free Radical Biology and Medicine