Nicotinamide Riboside Slows Cognitive Decline in Aging Mice: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Cognitive decline affects a significant number of older adults, and as people age, changes in brain immune cells (microglia) and decreasing NAD+ levels may contribute to this decline. In this study, aged mice were given nicotinamide riboside (NR) to boost NAD+ levels, and the results showed that NR helped improve memory and reduce brain inflammation. Specifically, NR-treated mice performed better in memory tests and had lower activation of microglia and astrocytes, resembling the healthy brain profile of younger mice. Gene analysis revealed that NR reduced inflammation-related genes and boosted those linked to learning and memory. NR also helped restore a more balanced microglial state and reduced age-related changes in fat metabolism. These findings suggest that NR could help slow cognitive decline and promote healthier brain aging by supporting youthful brain immune cell activity.

Journal

GeroScience