Growing old is inevitable. However, it is possible to reverse the aging process using Nicotinamide Mononucleotide or NMN. Keeping that in mind, I’m going to give you the details of how this molecule works in cells.
What Is NMN?
One of the causes of aging corresponds to a decrease in energy metabolism: an increase in body mass, a decrease in the sensitivity of tissue receptors to insulin, and a decrease in the body’s physical capabilities. The problem developed in adulthood is the loss of the ability to synthesize Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+), which is essential in cellular processes. In search of possibilities to raise the amount of NAD+ in tissues, scientists are looking into the possibility of using NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide), which is the precursor of NAD+ in the synthesis chain. In nature, NMN is found in avocado, broccoli, leafy cabbage, cucumbers, and beans.
Amazing Results of Experiments With NMN
Experiments with laboratory mice show the positive effects of using NMN. According to various scientific research, the condition of the muscles of the mice improved, the density of bone tissue increased, vision improved, tissue sensitivity increased to insulin, the functions of the immune system improved, body mass decreased, and physical level increased in mice. NMN supplements increase metabolism by improving energy production. Therefore, mice receiving NMN do not gain weight as they age and are more physically active. But all these changes were detected precisely in aging mice, then the body of young mice did not react to the addition of NMN in the diet. Although NAD+ shows promising results in mice, scientists are still studying how these results can affect humans.
NAD+ Effect on Sirtuins
An increased NAD+ stimulates the production of sirtuins. Sirtuins are a family of proteins that directly promote autophagy. Their production is also associated with a longer life span and enhanced DNA repair. Also, sirtuins also activate other genes known for their health benefits, including the FOXO family, TFEB, and P53.
- The activity of the FOXO family is associated with increased resistance to stress, a longer life span, and a lower incidence of tumors (such as cancer).
- TFEB is the main stimulator of the production of new lysosomes, so it is directly involved in the autophagy process.
- P53 prevents DNA from mutating and prevents tumor formation.
NAD+ And Energy Production in the Body
NAD+ is an organic molecule naturally found in all living organisms. People breathe and oxygen enters through the respiratory tracts into the alveoli of the lungs, and from there to the cells, where cellular respiration takes place. NAD+ is an electron carrier that picks up electrons during cellular respiration. When NAD+ gains an electron, it is reduced to NADH. NADH carries electrons all the way up the electron transport chain, where it will then drop electrons. This will allow an enzyme ATP synthase to contract and ultimately produce ATP. Also, as with NAD+, the levels of ATP decline as we age. The decline of ATP is associated with decreased physical activity, cellular processes, and an increased risk of death.
Why NMN Is Becoming More and More Important?
According to articles, the global NMN market was valued at US$253 million in 2020. It is estimated that this sum will reach US$386 million by the end of 2027. Why is NMN so popular?
- Aging is a disease. In 2018, The World Health Organization (WHO) added aging to the list of diseases for the first time. The classification of aging as a disease let scientists conduct new research on therapeutics to treat age-related diseases such as cardiovascular, metabolic diseases, cancer, and neurodegeneration.
- The NAD+ molecule is naturally found in all living organisms. This is not a new chemical compound unknown to scientists and people. Students hear about NAD+ even in biology classes at school.
- It is a scientifically proven fact that taken orally, NMN is rapidly absorbed and converted to NAD+. Various studies with animal models show a positive NMN effect on animal cell processes. Of course, scientists are trying to find out more about NMN supplements’ effects on human cells.
