Researchers: Minyan Zheng, Michael B Schultz, David A Sinclair
NAD+, as an emerging regulator of immune responses during viral infections, may be a promising therapeutic target for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this Opinion, we suggest that interventions that boost NAD+ levels might promote antiviral defense and suppress uncontrolled inflammation. We discuss the association between low NAD+ concentrations and risk factors for poor COVID-19 outcomes, including aging and common comorbidities. Mechanistically, we outline how viral infections can further deplete NAD+ and its roles in antiviral defense and inflammation. We also describe how coronaviruses can subvert NAD+-mediated actions via genes that remove NAD+ modifications and activate the NOD-, LRR-, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Finally, we explore ongoing approaches to boost NAD+ concentrations in the clinic to putatively increase antiviral responses while curtailing hyperinflammation.
References
- Therapeutic Potential of NAD-Boosting Molecules: The In Vivo Evidence.
- Why does COVID-19 disproportionately affect older people?
- Impairment of an Endothelial NAD+-H2S Signaling Network Is a Reversible Cause of Vascular Aging.
- Sirtuins and NAD+ in the Development and Treatment of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases.