β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)
Synopsis of β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)
β-Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a bioactive nucleotide derived from nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) and is a direct precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a coenzyme essential for cellular metabolism, DNA repair, and energy production. NMN plays a central role in the NAD+ salvage pathway, which recycles nicotinamide into NAD+, a molecule that declines naturally with age and is critical for mitochondrial function, gene expression, and healthy aging.
Supplemental NMN has attracted significant attention in the field of anti-aging and metabolic health due to its ability to raise NAD+ levels in cells and tissues. Unlike NAD+ itself, which cannot efficiently cross cell membranes, NMN is more bioavailable and can be readily taken up by cells, where it is enzymatically converted into NAD+. Research suggests that NMN supplementation may enhance insulin sensitivity, support cardiovascular function, improve cognitive performance, and extend healthspan by promoting efficient cellular repair and mitochondrial integrity.
Studies in animal models have shown that NMN supplementation can delay age-related physiological decline, improve endurance, and protect against neurodegenerative changes. Human trials, though still in early phases, suggest that NMN is well tolerated and may support metabolic and vascular health, particularly in middle-aged and older adults.
Historical Use:
As a defined molecule, β-nicotinamide mononucleotide is a relatively recent discovery and has no direct historical use in herbal or traditional medicine. However, its biological roots are closely tied to vitamin B3—niacin and nicotinamide—which have been used therapeutically since the early 20th century. Niacin was identified in the 1930s as a cure for pellagra, a deficiency disease causing dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia, and it soon became part of standard nutritional interventions.
The broader family of NAD+ precursors—including nicotinic acid, nicotinamide, nicotinamide riboside (NR), and NMN—represents a modern extension of the therapeutic legacy of B vitamins. Traditional diets rich in NAD+ precursors—such as liver, legumes, seeds, and whole grains—have long been associated with vitality, endurance, and robust health, albeit without awareness of their biochemical implications.
The scientific study of NMN accelerated in the 2000s with breakthroughs in aging research. Key figures, including Harvard researcher Dr. David Sinclair, helped spotlight NMN’s potential by linking NAD+ depletion to aging and age-related diseases. NMN quickly entered the field of longevity research as a cutting-edge, evidence-supported supplement for sustaining cellular function in aging bodies.
While NMN itself was not used in traditional medicine, it represents a convergence of modern biochemistry and ancestral wisdom: supporting life at the cellular level by optimizing a pathway that is deeply foundational to human health.
β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is used for these health conditions
Aging (prevention) (Scientific)
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Congestive Heart Failure (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Fatigue (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Metabolic Syndrome (Scientific)
Parkinson's Disease (Scientific)
Peripheral Neuropathy (Scientific)
Radiation Sickness (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Wrinkles (Scientific)
β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is used to support these body systems
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Glandular System (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Liver (Scientific)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
Muscles (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Pancreas Head (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
