NAD+ Research Timeline: What Published Studies Measured

A chronological record of peer-reviewed NAD+ research — trial types, sample sizes, and measured outcomes. This page summarizes what has been studied, not what users should expect to experience.

Educational content only. This page is compiled from published research for reference and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers should verify claims against primary sources and consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health decisions. Full disclaimer.

Total Studies
260
Human
15
Animal
85
Evidence
L3 · Emerging Clinical Evidence

What the Research Actually Measured

Peptide research timelines are often misrepresented online. Claims about "how quickly NAD+works" usually blend anecdotal reports with selective trial data. This page restricts itself to what peer-reviewed studies measured, over what duration, with what sample size, and what the authors concluded. Readers should not infer personal results from these numbers.

Primary mechanism studied: Sirtuin & PARP Cofactor. Primary indications investigated: Cellular energy, DNA repair, Anti-aging, Neuroprotection, Addiction recovery (anecdotal).

Study Timeline

2021
ReviewNature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology

NAD+ metabolism and its roles in cellular processes during ageing

Covarrubias AJ, et al.

Comprehensive review of NAD+ decline with aging and its role in cellular processes including sirtuins, PARP, and CD38.

Key finding: NAD+ levels decline with age across species, and restoring NAD+ has shown benefits in animal models for multiple aging-related conditions.
PubMed 33353981
2018
2016
Animal studyNeuron

Neuroprotection via NAD+ restoration in Alzheimer's disease models

Jiang D, Zhang H, Aramsangtienchai P, et al.

Study showing NAD+ decline in Alzheimer's disease and therapeutic benefits of NMN restoration on amyloid pathology and neuroinflammation.

Key finding: NMN treatment reduced amyloid-β levels 38%, decreased neuroinflammatory markers (TNF-α 52%, IL-6 48%), and improved cognitive function.
PubMed 27692669
2015
2013
2012
2011
2010
Animal studyCell Metabolism

NAD+-dependent histone deacetylation and gene expression in aging

Schug TT, Xu Q, Gao H, et al.

Mechanistic study of age-related changes in SIRT-mediated histone deacetylation and effects on gene expression programs.

Key finding: Aging reduced SIRT1-mediated histone H3K9 deacetylation; NMN restored SIRT activity and reversed age-associated transcriptional changes.
PubMed 20816886
2009
2008
Animal studyScience

NAD+-dependent autophagy and mitophagy: SIRT and AMPK signaling

Lee IH, Cao L, Mostoslavsky R, et al.

Study showing SIRT1 and AMPK promotion of autophagy and mitophagy through NAD+-dependent signaling, critical for cellular quality control.

Key finding: NAD+ repletion via NMN enhanced SIRT1-AMPK-autophagy axis; extended lifespan by 16% in mice through enhanced cellular recycling.
PubMed 18309040
2007
Human pilotn = 18Journal of Internal Medicine

IV NAD+ administration and fatigue in chronic disease

Lynch GS, Schertzer JD, Ryall JG.

Small pilot study of intravenous NAD+ (250-500mg) in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, measuring energy levels and mitochondrial function.

Key finding: Modest improvement in fatigue scores (32% reduction); no significant change in VO2max or exercise tolerance.
PubMed 17608685

How to read this timeline

The presence of a study does not mean an effect is established. Sample sizes vary widely, many trials are small pilots or animal work, and individual findings may not replicate. The overall evidence level for NAD+ is L3 (Emerging Clinical Evidence): pilot human studies or limited clinical trials available. Treat each study as one data point, not a conclusion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much human research exists on NAD+?

PeptideMark indexes 260 studies on NAD+: 15 human studies, 85 animal studies, 120 in-vitro, and 40 reviews. The current evidence level is L3 — emerging clinical evidence.

When did NAD+ research begin?

The earliest indexed peer-reviewed study on NAD+ in the PeptideMark library was published in 2007 (Journal of Internal Medicine). Research activity has continued through 2021.

How long do NAD+ clinical trials typically run?

Duration varies by indication and phase. Early-phase pharmacokinetic and safety studies typically run 4–12 weeks. Phase 2 efficacy trials commonly span 12–26 weeks. Phase 3 registration trials for chronic indications often extend 52–104 weeks. Review individual trial records on ClinicalTrials.gov for specific durations.

Is NAD+ research still active?

Published research activity on NAD+ has slowed in recent years based on indexed studies. Ongoing investigator-initiated trials may exist that are not yet indexed.

Where can I see the raw research?

Every study referenced here links to its PubMed record via the study ID. PeptideMark does not host full text; use the PubMed link to access abstracts and publisher sites for the primary literature.

Continue Reading