A new study indicates that a supplement, widely endorsed by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Kendall Jenner, may have the potential to reverse aspects of Alzheimer’s disease and restore cognitive function. The molecule in question, known as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), is gaining attention for its role in energy production and cellular repair. Research conducted by the Harrington Discovery Institute at University Hospitals in Ohio reveals that NAD+ levels decline significantly after age 35, prompting interest in its ability to mitigate age-related conditions.
The study, published in Cell Press Medicine, highlights the critical functions of NAD+ in the brain. It was discovered that the brain’s inability to maintain healthy levels of this molecule contributes significantly to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers engineered mice to carry genetic mutations associated with Alzheimer’s, allowing them to study the effects of NAD+ supplementation in a controlled environment.
Mice that received NAD+ treatments before displaying symptoms showed no memory issues. In contrast, those already exhibiting cognitive decline experienced notable recovery after treatment, as increased NAD+ levels aided in brain repair. Andrew A. Pieper, MD, PhD, the study’s senior author and Director of the Brain Health Medicines Center at the Harrington Discovery Institute, expressed optimism regarding these findings. “Restoring the brain’s energy balance achieved pathological and functional recovery,” he stated, underscoring the potential for this approach to assist human patients in the future.
Despite the promising results, experts caution against the unregulated use of NAD+ supplements. Previous research has indicated that excessive NAD+ levels can lead to adverse health effects, including an increased risk of cancer. The unique conditions of the study ensured that mice maintained a healthy balance of NAD+, a feat that may not be achievable outside of clinical settings.
The implications of this research are particularly significant given the rising dementia rates globally. In the UK alone, approximately 982,000 individuals are currently living with dementia, with Alzheimer’s being the most prevalent type. Projections from the Alzheimer’s Society suggest that this number could rise to 1.4 million by 2040, highlighting the urgent need for effective treatments.
The research team has called for further investigation into the therapeutic potential of NAD+ in human clinical trials to confirm its efficacy. Co-author Kalyani Chaubey emphasized the importance of understanding which aspects of brain energy balance are most critical for recovery and exploring additional methods for reversing Alzheimer’s disease.
As interest in NAD+ continues to grow, with products available for purchase ranging from oral supplements to intravenous treatments, consumers are advised to approach these options with caution. Prices for NAD+ supplements can start at approximately £24.95 (around $30), attracting a wide audience seeking to maintain youthful health.
The findings offer a hopeful perspective on Alzheimer’s research, suggesting that cognitive decline may not be an irreversible condition. With ongoing studies, the scientific community remains focused on unlocking the full potential of NAD+ in combating age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
