Boosting NAD metabolism to prevent pathological brain aging
Description: In response to the urgent need for effective interventions in age-related cognitive dysfunction and dementia, our research proposal addresses the challenge of delayed treatment initiation and the potential of dietary interventions. We aim to prevent pathological brain aging and cognitive disorders by targeting brain metabolism at early stages. Our pilot study adopts a double-blind, placebo-controlled design, focusing on a population not yet affected by dementia but experiencing age-related frailty. We focis on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)-replenishment therapy, using the NAD precursor nicotinamide riboside (NR). This strategy aims to bolster neuronal resilience against stresses associated with cognitive disorders. To achieve our objectives, we will utilize our expertise in clinical trials, nutrition, metabolism, the gut microbiome, and neurodegeneration. We will collect imaging and biological samples throughout the trial to investigate the interplay between nutrition, the gut microbiome, host metabolism, and cognitive function, as well as response to NR treatment. Our study aims to assess the efficacy of NR treatment in alleviating physical and cognitive dysfunction associated with aging-related frailty, determine its potential in reducing the risk profile for cognitive dysfunction and dementia, and analyze the impact of individual variability in NAD bioavailability and clinical effects following NR intake. Additionally, we seek to elucidate the role of the gut microbiome in NR- and NAD-metabolism and its impact on clinical responses to NR treatment, as well as the overall effects of NR treatment on microbiome composition and metabolism. Finally, we aim to explore the relationship between dietary factors and cognitive function in large cohorts of older individuals. Ultimately, this research promises to transform our approach to dementia and cognitive disorders, offering new pathways for innovative, nutrition-based therapeutic and preventive interventions.
Funder: Eesti Teadusagentuur
Amount: €150,000
Funding type: grant
Funder scheme: Mobilitas 3.0 Horisondi partnerlused (MOB3PRT)
Start date: 2025-05-01
End date: 2028-04-30
Investigator: Uku Vainik
Institution: University of Tartu, Faculty of Science and Technology, Institute of Genomics
Funded outputs count: 0
Funder award ID: MOB3PRT19
OpenAlex ID: G599405665