Quantitation of NAD+: Why do we need to measure it?

Abstract

Background: Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) is an essential pyridine nucleotide that is currently investigated as an important target to extend lifespan and health span. Age-related NAD+ depletion due to the accumulation of oxidative stress is associated with reduced energy production, impaired DNA repair and genomic instability.

Scope of review: NAD+ levels can be elevated therapeutically using NAD+ precursors or through lifestyle modifications including exercise and caloric restriction. However, high amounts of NAD+ may be detrimental in cancer progression and may have deleterious immunogenic roles.

Major conclusions: Standardized quantitation of NAD+ and related metabolites may therefore represent an important component of NAD+ therapy.

General significance: Quantitation of NAD+ may serve dual roles not only as an ageing biomarker, but also as a diagnostic tool for the prevention of malignant disorders.

Keywords: Ageing; Biomarker; Cancer; NAD+; Nicotinamide.