Nicotinamide Riboside Protects Retinal Cells by Supporting Mitochondrial Health: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Retinal degeneration diseases (RDDs), such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa, lead to the gradual loss of light-sensing cells in the eye, often caused by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. This study found that nicotinamide riboside (NR), a vitamin B3 derivative and NAD+ booster, helps protect retinal cells by activating two key mitochondrial defense systems: mitophagy (the removal of damaged mitochondria) and the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR). In a lab model using retinal cone cells exposed to hydrogen peroxide, NR treatment increased the activity of protective proteins such as PINK1, Parkin, and LC3, reduced cell death, and improved mitochondrial function. Blocking these pathways eliminated NR’s benefits, confirming their importance. The findings suggest that enhancing mitochondrial quality control through NR supplementation could help slow or prevent retinal degeneration caused by oxidative stress.

Journal

Cell Death & Disease