Nicotinamide Riboside Protects CD8+ T Cells From Exhaustion by Improving Mitochondrial Health: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Protecting mitochondria in CD8+ T cells is important for improving cancer immunotherapy. This study tested whether nicotinamide riboside (NR) could prevent T cell exhaustion. In lab models, NR preserved mitochondrial function, reduced T cell death, and blocked exhaustion. The effects were linked to increased activity of Sirt1, a key protein for cell health. When Sirt1 was blocked, NR's benefits were reduced, showing that NR works through this pathway. Overall, the study suggests that NR could help boost the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy by keeping CD8+ T cells healthy.

Journal

Nutrients