Preventing NMN Accumulation Protects Nerves from Chemotherapy-Induced Damage: Preclinical Findings

Synopsis

Axon degeneration is a key feature of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). While it has been linked to loss of NAD+ via SARM1, recent evidence suggests that a buildup of NMN, a precursor of NAD+, may drive degeneration. Blocking NMN accumulation in neurons protects axons, and researchers found that combining nicotinic acid riboside (NAR) with FK866, a drug that blocks NMN production, also protected nerve cells from chemotherapy-induced damage. This protection was reversed when NMN levels were restored, showing that bypassing NMN formation may be a promising strategy to prevent axon degeneration.

Journal

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences