At the heart of the current discussion around longevity is NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a coenzyme found in every cell of the human body. Its role in cellular energy production, DNA repair, and overall cellular health has made many doctors buzz around its role in extending one’s lifespan. Dr. Andrew Shao, Senior VP of Global Regulatory & Scientific Affairs at ChromaDex, and Rob Fried, CEO of ChromaDex, spoke to Athletech News about why NAD+ is popular in the longevity field today.
“Interest in NAD+ stemmed from early research demonstrating that boosting its levels could extend lifespan in mice,” Dr. Shao told ATN. “In the past decade, efforts have focused on translating these findings to humans, sparking rising awareness that longevity is only valuable if accompanied by good health.”
NAD+ levels naturally decline with age and are further reduced by stressors such as a high-fat diet, emotional or physical strain, alcohol consumption, lack of sleep, and prolonged UV exposure.
“NAD+ is critical for cellular energy production and DNA repair,” Dr. Shao emphasized. “Research suggests that depleted NAD+ levels can impair these processes, leaving cells vulnerable to damage from everyday stressors like sun exposure.”
NAD+ levels similarly drop by up to 80% when people face immune challenges. Traditionally, NAD+ is associated with intravenous therapies, but recently, oral supplements have become more popular. Tru Niagen’s oral supplement features nicotinamide riboside (NR).
“NR is the most efficient NAD+ precursor because it crosses the cell wall directly and converts into NAD+ in two steps,” Dr. Shao noted. Unlike NAD+ and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), which require breakdown before entering cells, some studies and scientists claim NR offers an immediate boost to NAD+ levels.
“I was inspired by the groundbreaking discovery of NR as the most efficient and superior NAD+ precursor,” Rob Fried, CEO of ChromaDex, told ATN. “When we launched Tru Niagen in 2017, it quickly became the majority of ChromaDex’s business and established us as the global authority on NAD+ research.”
ChromaDex also expands into intravenous hydration with pharmaceutical-grade Niagen IV and injections.
“NAD+ IVs have gained popularity among celebrities, athletes, and longevity experts but often come with unpleasant experiences,” Fried explained. “Our Niagen IV is faster, provides superior tolerability, and elevates NAD+ levels more quickly and effectively. We believe this will transform the NAD+ landscape.”
For Fried, longevity is about more than just adding years to life. “Perhaps we need to reframe the conversation to focus on healthspan—the time we live in good health,” he suggested. “It’s about having the energy and vitality to fully enjoy life, not just extend it.”
