Most of the energy that living organisms use is derived from oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions, involving the transfer of electrons. About 200 enzymes require the vitamin B3 (niacin) coenzymes, NAD and NADP, mainly to accept or donate electrons for ‘redox reactions’. While NAD functions most often in energy producing reactions involving the degradation (‘catabolism’) of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and alcohol, NADP is involved more often in biosynthetic (‘anabolic’) reactions such as in the synthesis of all macromolecules, including fatty acids and cholesterol (1, 2).

 

The niacin coenzyme, NAD is the reactant for three classes of enzymes involved in DNA repair and stress responses, cell signaling (1, 3), gene expression, regulation of programmed cell death (‘apoptosis’), and cell differentiation, suggesting a possible role for NAD in cancer prevention (2).

 

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which provides scientific advice to assist policy makers, has confirmed that clear health benefits have been established for the dietary intake of niacin (vitamin B3) in contributing to:

 

• normal energy-yielding metabolism;
• the normal function of the nervous system;
• the maintenance of normal skin and mucous membranes;
• normal psychological functions;
• the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.