Role and Potential Mechanisms of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide in Aging

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) has recently attracted much attention due to its role in aging and lifespan extension. NAD⁺ directly and indirectly affects many cellular processes, including metabolic pathways, DNA repair, and immune cell activities. These mechanisms are critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis. However, the decline in NAD⁺ levels with aging impairs tissue function, which has been associated with several age-related diseases. In fact, the aging population has been steadily increasing worldwide, and it is important to restore NAD⁺ levels and reverse or delay these age-related disorders. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for healthy products that can mitigate aging, extend lifespan, and halt age-related consequences. In this case, several studies in humans and animals have targeted NAD⁺ metabolism with NAD⁺ intermediates. Among them, nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), a precursor in the biosynthesis of NAD⁺, has recently received much attention from the scientific community for its anti-aging properties. In model organisms, ingestion of NMN has been shown to improve age-related diseases and probably delay death. Here, we review aspects of NMN biosynthesis and the mechanism of its absorption, as well as potential anti-aging mechanisms of NMN, including recent preclinical and clinical tests, adverse effects, limitations, and perceived challenges.