A recent clinical trial has shown that nicotinamide riboside (NR) supplementation may reverse premature aging effects in patients with Werner syndrome (WS), a rare genetic disorder characterized by accelerated aging.

Patients with WS suffer from severe symptoms including gray hair, cataracts, diabetes, and skin ulcers, which contribute to high mortality rates from cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

The study, led by Associate Professor Masaya Koshizaka from Chiba University, Japan, utilized a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, with WS patients receiving either NR or a placebo for 26 weeks.

Results indicated that NR significantly increased NAD+ levels, improved arterial stiffness, reduced skin ulcer size, and slowed the progression of kidney dysfunction, all without serious side effects.

Moreover, the treatment was found to lower levels of creatinine and other metabolites associated with kidney dysfunction, suggesting potential protective effects on kidney health.

These findings suggest that NR could be a vital treatment for arteriosclerosis and skin ulcers, addressing major complications of WS that affect a large percentage of patients.

While further research is necessary, this study offers hope for WS patients and insights into potential treatments for broader age-related conditions.

The research aims to inspire additional studies on WS and other aging disorders to enhance the quality of life and health span for those affected.

Dr. Yasmeen Nkrumah-Elie from Niagen Bioscience highlighted the significance of the study in understanding how NR may address the biological mechanisms underlying WS.

The findings were published in the journal Aging Cell on June 3, 2025, marking an important contribution to the field of aging research.