Updates in Neurology: Nicotinamide Riboside and Mitochondrial Support

Abstract

Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with both aging and a wide array of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease,1 Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Mitochondrial dysfunction increases with age, leading to high levels of reactive oxygen species and prolonged oxidative stress. Therapeutic approaches that help regulate mitochondrial biogenenesis and mitophagy (a specialized form of autophagy that removes impaired mitochondria) could potentially have positive effects on the early stages and severity of neurodegenerative conditions, as well as supporting healthy aging in general.