Nicotinamide Riboside Reduces Oxidative Stress in Alzheimer's Disease: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Mitophagy—the process by which damaged mitochondria are removed—is essential for maintaining brain cell health and preventing neurodegeneration. In this study, researchers examined fibroblast cells from patients with sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (sAD) and found signs of mitochondrial dysfunction, including elevated mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), abnormal energy metabolism, and impaired autophagy and lysosomal activity. Although sAD cells had more lysosomes, their ability to break down and recycle cellular waste was significantly reduced. Treatment with nicotinamide riboside (NR), a vitamin B3–derived NAD+ booster, lowered mitochondrial ROS and improved mitochondrial health, though lysosomal degradation remained impaired. These results suggest that NR helps alleviate oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease cells, highlighting its potential role in supporting cellular health and slowing neurodegeneration through enhanced mitochondrial maintenance.

Journal

Free Radical Biology and Medicine