Nicotinamide Riboside Protects Against Liver Toxicity: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

This study looked at the role of the mitochondrial enzyme MNADK, which makes NADP from NAD+, in liver health. Mice lacking MNADK had higher levels of certain amino acids and carnitines, and when fed a high-fat diet, they developed fatty liver disease and had more oxidative stress in their livers. These mice also struggled to burn fat during fasting and showed reduced activity of key liver transcription factors and mitochondrial sirtuins that help manage energy and metabolism. Treatment with methotrexate inhibited MNADK, causing liver stress, but giving mice nicotinamide riboside (NR), a precursor to NAD+, restored NADP levels and protected against liver damage. Overall, MNADK helps maintain liver metabolism, reduces oxidative stress, supports mitochondrial function, and prevents diet- or drug-induced liver problems.

Journal

Gastroenterology