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Functions of vitamin B3 and its metabolites in epigenetic regulation

Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Recent research advances point toward an intimate connection between metabolic chemistry and molecular mechanisms of epigenetic gene regulation that modulates cellular functions. Many small molecule metabolites generated through metabolic pathways are demonstrated to have the ability or potential to bind or modify nuclear chromatin, chromatin-modifying enzymes, or other chromatin associated proteins. These processes cause alterations of chromatin dynamics, gene expression, and other DNA-templated functions, which ultimately lead to phenotypic changes of the cell. Vitamin B3 is an essential micronutrient of the human diet required for normal physiological function, but the dysregulation of vitamin B3 metabolism has been found in association with several pathological conditions. Intracellularly, vitamin B3 is metabolized into various intermediate metabolites, several of which are functional molecules that have been found to exert an influence on epigenetic regulation of gene function. Multiple lines of experimental evidence show that vitamin B3, and these functional metabolites, can directly or indirectly influence histone post-translational modification, DNA methylation, and alter chromatin remodeling and gene expression. The appreciation of vitamin B3's roles in epigenetic regulation provides a novel framework for understanding diet- and metabolism-driven mechanisms of gene program control. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of vitamin B3 metabolic pathways, biochemical characteristics of various B3-derived intermediates, and their distinctive mechanisms in epigenetic regulation concluding with a reflection on problems, challenges, and prospects in this field.
DOI: 10.1039/d6cb00165c
Language: English
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,962
OpenAlex ID: W7221145111
FWCI:
Cites: 149
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Related to: 10