The primary aim of this study is to investigate the effects of exogenously administered nicotinamide riboside (NR) on brain energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild Alzheimer's dementia (AD).
Mitochondrial function is mediated, in part, by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD). Unfortunately, decreases in NAD+ levels are associated with normal aging, and also with numerous diseases such as AD. Accumulating evidence suggests that NR can enhance mitochondrial function and help slow or reverse these age-related abnormalities. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies have been performed using NR and related compounds to boost NAD+ level in human subjects with various diseases or animal models. However, no studies to date have investigated in vivo metabolic and bioenergetic changes (target engagement) associated with NR supplementation. In this project, we aim to investigate the neurobiological mechanisms and clinical effects of NR in patients with MCI and mild AD using in vivo novel neuroimaging techniques.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
21
Participants will take 4 pills every day, each containing 250 mg NR (NIAGEN® by Chromadex; www.chromadex.com), via the oral route, for 12 weeks.
McLean Hospital
Belmont, Massachusetts, United States
Changes in brain NAD+
Changes in brain NAD+ levels
Time frame: Baseline, 6 and 12 weeks, pre- and post- 1000 mg NR daily
Changes in brain redox state
Changes in brain NAD+/NADH ratio
Time frame: Baseline, 6 and 12 weeks, pre- and post- 1000 mg NR daily
Changes in mitochondrial function
Changes in brain CK/ATPase activity
Time frame: Baseline, 6 and 12 weeks, pre- and post- 1000 mg NR daily
Changes in antioxidant glutathione (GSH) levels
Changes in brain GSH levels
Time frame: Baseline, 6 and 12 weeks, pre- and post- 1000 mg NR daily
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