NMN is now center stage in the fight against aging. And, going by the research and anecdotal evidence it’s a winner. However, to the average person interested in de-aging, wrapping their minds around this new phenomenon can be mind-boggling. So, in this article we give you a simplified understanding of NMN, then unpack the accompanying terminology. In our next articles: we will also give you reasons to get onto the NMN bandwagon. In addition, to focusing on explaining the vicious cycle of NMN and NAD+ decline due to aging, and how CD38 enzyme activity perpetuates the cycle.
UNDERSTANDING NMN THE ANTI-AGING HERO
What Is NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)
NMN, or nicotinamide mononucleotide, is a molecule found naturally in the body. It’s a key building block for NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), which is vital for energy production and cellular repair. As we age, NAD+ levels drop, leading to less efficient cell function. Taking NMN supplements can help boost NAD+ levels, which may slow aging, improve metabolism, and enhance overall health.
What Is NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a molecule found in all living cells. It’s crucial for energy production and cell repair. NAD+ helps convert nutrients into energy and supports various processes that keep cells healthy. Unfortunately, as we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline. When NAD+ levels drop, it affects cell function, leading to signs of aging and a higher risk of age-related diseases.
What Causes NAD+ Levels to Drop as We Age?
These factors collectively contribute to the decline in NAD+ levels, impacting energy, metabolism, and overall cellular health. NAD+ levels decline with age due to a combination of factors:
- Increased Consumption – As we age, our cells require more NAD+ to repair damage and maintain normal functions. This heightened demand depletes NAD+ faster than the body can produce it.
- Reduced Production – The efficiency of enzymes responsible for producing NAD+ decreases with age. Additionally, the body’s ability to convert precursors like NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside) into NAD+ diminishes over time.
- DNA Damage – Aging associated with accumulating DNA damage, which triggers repair processes that consume more NAD+. This leaves less NAD+ available for other essential cellular functions.
- Increased Activity of Enzymes – Certain enzymes, such as CD38, become more active with age. CD38 breaks down NAD+, further reducing its levels in the body.
UNPACKING THE TERMINOLOGY AROUND NMN
Exactly What Does Nicotinamide-Mono-Nucleotide Mean?
Nicotinamide mononucleotide a single nucleotide attached to nicotinamide, essential for producing NAD+, is critical for energy and cell repair. So, nicotinamide mononucleotide is a single nucleotide attached to nicotinamide, essential for producing NAD+, which is critical for energy and cell repair. The term nicotinamide mononucleotide broken down into its components is: –
- Nicotinamide – This is a form of vitamin B3, also known as niacin. Nicotinamide plays a role in energy production and DNA repair in cells.
- Mono – This prefix means “one” or “single.” It indicates that there is a single nucleotide attached.
- Nucleotide – This is the basic building block of DNA and RNA. A nucleotide consists of a nitrogenous base, a sugar molecule, and a phosphate group. In NMN, the nucleotide is linked to the nicotinamide.
What Exactly Does the Term Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Mean?
NAD+ is crucial for various biological processes, including energy production, DNA repair, and cellular metabolism. It functions as a coenzyme, helping facilitate redox reactions in cells by carrying electrons between molecules. The term nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) breaks down into its components as follows:
- Nicotinamide – This is a form of vitamin B3 (niacin) and is one of the two main components of NAD+. It acts as a precursor in the synthesis of NAD+.
- Adenine – Adenine is one of the four nucleobases in DNA and RNA. In NAD+, it is part of the adenine nucleotide, which helps form the structure of the molecule.
- Dinucleotide – This term indicates that NAD+ consists of two nucleotide units joined together. Each nucleotide unit includes a sugar (ribose), a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base (adenine or nicotinamide).
What Exactly is DNA and RNA in Simple Terms?
To understand this terms think about them this way – DNA holds the blueprint, and RNA helps turn that blueprint into action. In simple terms: –
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)
Deoxyribonucleic Acid is the instruction manual for building and maintaining living things. It carries genetic information that determines how we develop, function, and reproduce. DNA is made up of long chains of nucleotides, and these chains form a double helix structure. Think of it as a recipe book that tells your body how to make you.
RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)
Ribonucleic Acid acts as a messenger. It takes the instructions from DNA and helps make proteins, which do most of the work in cells. There are different types of RNA, each with specific roles, like carrying the DNA message or helping to build proteins.
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