what is nad

The acronym "NAD" stands for Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, which is a coenzyme central to metabolism found in all living cells. It consists of two nucleotides joined through their phosphate groups and exists in two forms: an oxidized form (NAD+) and a reduced form (NADH). NAD is involved in redox reactions, carrying electrons from one reaction to another, and is also used as a substrate of enzymes in adding or removing chemical groups to or from proteins. It is essential for energy metabolism, DNA integrity, and various cellular processes, and its levels have been linked to aging and age-related diseases. NAD+ can be increased through supplementation with NAD+ precursors such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)