NMN Supplements: The Unexpected Hero in the Battle Against Age-Related Heart Diseases
In the intricate ballet of molecular reactions that power our metabolism, a special group of proteins, called sirtuins, are essential for maintaining metabolic health. Yet, as we age, their activity decreases. Scientists have been trying to re-energize these sirtuins during aging, considering using supplements like Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN). While there's enthusiasm about this, the other ways NMN might protect against aging conditions haven't been studied as much.
NMN and Its Role in Cellular Aging
Studies show that NMN supplements can boost levels of a vital cell component called NAD+, important for producing our cells' energy. Scientists wanted to see if by increasing NAD+ levels using NMN could help pathways that guard against heart-related diseases tied to aging.
The Surprising Heart Protective Effects of NMN
Research found that NMN could protect blood vessels from certain types of damage. What's fascinating is that this benefit didn't rely on sirtuin activity. When mice were given a substance that blocks sirtuins, NMN still protected their hearts.
Understanding NMN's Connection with Glycolysis
Published in 2018 in the Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, this study delves into NMN's influence on glycolysis. NMN appeared to kickstart a vital energy-making process called glycolysis. Introducing NMN to mouse hearts boosted their NAD+ levels. Further checks showed a rise in components linked to glycolysis. This showed that NMN fires up glycolysis and boosts energy production by increasing NAD+ levels.
To further emphasize glycolysis's role in NMN's heart protection, researchers limited glucose in the hearts of NMN-treated mice. This revealed that when you stop glucose, you also stop NMN's protective features.
NMN: A Protector in Several Ways
The researchers stated, “Our data indicates that NMN boosts glycolysis, suggesting that its heart protection might partially come from this boost.” It appears enhanced glycolysis helps protect by improving energy production.
Conclusion
NMN seems key for heart protection, especially with aging. This research illuminates NMN's broader role beyond just sirtuin energizing, by also enhancing glycolysis and potentially other paths. More studies are necessary, but these insights make a strong case for considering NMN supplements to fight age-related heart issues.
References
Nadtochiy SM, Wang YT, Nehrke K, Munger J, Brookes PS. Cardioprotection by nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN): Involvement of glycolysis and acidic pH. J Mol Cell Cardiol. 2018;121:155-162. doi:10.1016/j.yjmcc.2018.06.007