Work

Redox therapy for neuropsychiatric disorders: Molecular mechanisms and biomarker development

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Redox dysregulation, characterized by an imbalance in the NAD + [nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (oxidized form)]/NADH (reduced form of NAD + ) ratio, is implicated in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. This imbalance contributes to mitochondrial dysregulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Despite promising preclinical studies supporting therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring redox balance and thereby rescuing brain bioenergetic deficits, clinical outcomes and efficacy remain limited. Progress has been hindered by the incomplete understanding of NAD + subcellular cycling, as well as a lack of in vivo biomarkers measuring target engagement of redox status and mitochondrial function. Thus, this review examines molecular mechanisms of NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide)–related bioenergetic deficits, current and emerging NAD-targeted therapies, and recent advances in the development of neuroimaging biomarkers, emphasizing personalized and mechanism-driven approaches.

Source: Science Advances

DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aea9014

Authors: Kyle W. Cuklanz, Abigail Stein, Virginie-Anne Chouinard, Dost Ongur, Fei Du

Institutions: McLean Hospital, Harvard University, Massachusetts General Hospital, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging

Language: English

Topic: Sirtuins and Resveratrol in Medicine

Subfield: Geriatrics and Gerontology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,500