NAD+ has become one of the most talked-about molecules in ageing research. Here’s a grounded look at what scientists have found so far.

What is NAD+?

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme found in every living cell. It plays a central role in two critical biological processes:

  1. Energy metabolism — NAD+ is essential for converting nutrients into cellular energy (ATP) through the mitochondria
  2. Cellular repair — NAD+ is a substrate for enzymes like sirtuins and PARPs, which are involved in DNA repair, gene expression, and cellular stress responses
    In short, NAD+ is fundamental to how cells produce energy and maintain themselves.

The ageing connection

Research has consistently shown that NAD+ levels decline with age. This decline has been linked to:

  • Mitochondrial dysfunction — reduced energy production at the cellular level
  • DNA damage accumulation — impaired repair mechanisms
  • Sirtuin activity reduction — sirtuins are a family of proteins associated with longevity, and they require NAD+ to function
  • Chronic inflammation — sometimes called “inflammageing”
    The hypothesis driving much of the research is straightforward: if declining NAD+ contributes to ageing processes, then restoring NAD+ levels might slow or reverse some of those processes.

Key research findings

Animal studies

The most robust evidence comes from animal models:

  • Mice studies have shown that boosting NAD+ levels can improve mitochondrial function, increase energy metabolism, and extend healthspan
  • Research on aged mice demonstrated improved muscle function, better insulin sensitivity, and enhanced cognitive performance after NAD+ supplementation
  • Sirtuin activation through NAD+ has been linked to improved DNA repair and cellular resilience in multiple preclinical studies

Human research

Human studies are still in earlier stages, but growing:

  • Several clinical trials are investigating NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) for their effects on ageing biomarkers
  • Early results suggest improvements in markers of metabolic health and cellular function
  • Larger, long-term human trials are ongoing

NAD+ in the research landscape

NAD+ is studied in several contexts beyond general longevity:

  • Neurodegenerative disease — exploring NAD+’s neuroprotective potential
  • Cardiovascular health — investigating effects on vascular function and heart health
  • Metabolic disorders — studying NAD+’s role in insulin sensitivity and metabolic regulation
  • Exercise recovery — researching effects on mitochondrial biogenesis and muscle repair

Why researchers use NAD+ directly

While NAD+ precursors like NMN and NR are commonly studied, some researchers work with NAD+ itself to study direct cellular effects without relying on biosynthetic conversion pathways. This allows for more controlled investigation of NAD+-dependent processes.
Eterna Labs supplies NAD+ 500mg for research applications, independently tested to 98%+ purity.

Storage and handling

NAD+ should be stored:

  • Lyophilised form: Refrigerate at 2-8°C, or freeze at -20°C for long-term storage
  • Reconstituted: Refrigerate and use within 30 days

– Protect from light and moisture at all times

Eterna Labs supplies research-grade NAD+ across New Zealand. Browse our longevity peptides at eternlabs.co.nz/shop.

Research compounds mentioned

  • NAD+— the central compound covered in this longevity research overview
  • MOTS-c— a mitochondria-derived peptide studied alongside NAD+ in ageing research