Present laboratory studies have focused on NAD+ in two closely related areas: reversible redox chemistry and enzymatic reactions that depend on NAD+.
In oxidation-reduction systems, NAD+ functions as an electron-associated cofactor. Numerous dehydrogenase-catalyzed reactions involve the transfer of a hydride to the nicotinamide ring of NAD+, producing the reduced form, NADH. NADH can subsequently participate in other oxidation-reduction reactions, returning the molecule to its oxidized NAD+ state. This NAD+/NADH couple is therefore frequently investigated as part of biochemical studies involving glycolytic reactions, tricarboxylic acid cycle chemistry, mitochondrial electron-transfer systems, and cellular redox balance.
Experimental studies that have been published also state that NAD+ functions as a substrate or co-substrate for a number of enzyme classes. Sirtuins make use of NAD+ in deacylation reactions, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases as well as related ADP-ribosyltransferases use it in ADP-ribosylation reactions. Furthermore, NAD+ glycohydrolases, such as CD38, CD157 and SARM1, have been investigated for their ability to metabolize NAD+ and produce products including nicotinamide and molecules related to ADP-ribose.
Experimental research has further investigated the compartmentalization of NAD+ within the nucleus, cytosol and mitochondria. These molecular pools can be regulated by distinct biosynthetic, salvage and consumption pathways. As a result, analytical studies frequently examine NAD+, NADH and related metabolites together when characterizing intracellular nucleotide metabolism.
These mechanisms describe established biochemical interactions under investigation and do not imply a therapeutic application.
This summary reflects findings reported in published preclinical and in vitro research. The original studies supporting this information are listed in the references.