# Apigenin as a CD38 Inhibitor: Implications for NAD+ Metabolism and Metabolic Syndrome

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Sinclair Lab Research · 2013-04-01


    Apigenin, a flavonoid, serves as a CD38 inhibitor, enhancing NAD+ metabolism and offering potential strategies for treating metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is an increasingly prevalent health issue characterized by a cluster of conditions including obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. The manipulation of NAD+ metabolism has emerged as a promising avenue in addressing this syndrome, with researchers exploring various compounds that can influence NAD+ levels and related pathways.

What this study examined

This study investigated the role of CD38, a primary NAD+ ase in mammals, in regulating NAD+ levels and its implications for metabolic syndrome. The researchers utilized cell cultures and obese mouse models to evaluate the effects of apigenin and quercetin, two identified CD38 inhibitors. The primary outcomes included changes in NAD+ levels, global protein acetylation, and metabolic parameters such as glucose and lipid homeostasis.

Why this matters for longevity research

The findings of this study are significant for longevity research as they highlight the importance of NAD+ in cellular metabolism and aging. By increasing NAD+ levels through the inhibition of CD38, it may be possible to activate sirtuins, which are proteins known to play a crucial role in regulating cellular health and longevity. This mechanism ties into the broader context of healthspan extension, where improving metabolic health can directly influence the quality and duration of life.

Key findings

CD38 is identified as the primary NAD+ ase in mammals.

CD38 knockout mice exhibit higher NAD+ levels and are protected against obesity and metabolic syndrome.

Inhibition of CD38 leads to increased intracellular NAD+ levels.

Apigenin treatment decreases global protein acetylation and specifically affects the acetylation of proteins like p53 and RelA-p65.

In obese mice, apigenin administration enhances NAD+ levels and improves glucose and lipid homeostasis.

CD38 inhibition presents a novel pharmacological target for treating metabolic diseases.

The science behind it

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a crucial coenzyme involved in various metabolic processes, including energy production and DNA repair. Sirtuins, which are NAD+-dependent deacetylases, play a vital role in cellular regulation and have been linked to longevity. The activity of sirtuins is influenced by the availability of NAD+, making CD38, as a NAD+ ase, a significant regulator of this pathway. The study's findings suggest that by inhibiting CD38, it is possible to enhance NAD+ levels, thereby activating sirtuins and potentially improving metabolic health.

How it fits into the longevity field

This research aligns with the growing body of literature focusing on NAD+ metabolism and its implications for aging and longevity. Other interventions, such as the use of NAD+ precursors like nicotinamide riboside, have also been explored for their potential to enhance NAD+ levels and activate sirtuins. The exploration of flavonoids like apigenin adds another layer to the understanding of dietary compounds in longevity research, suggesting that natural products may offer viable strategies for healthspan extension.

Practical takeaways

For researchers and informed consumers interested in the longevity field, this study emphasizes the potential of targeting NAD+ metabolism through CD38 inhibition. The findings encourage further exploration of dietary flavonoids and their role in metabolic health. However, it is important to approach such findings with caution and to await further clinical studies to validate the efficacy and safety of these interventions.

FAQ

What is CD38 and its role in NAD+ metabolism?

CD38 is an enzyme that regulates NAD+ levels in cells, acting as a primary NAD+ ase in mammals.

How does apigenin affect metabolic syndrome?

Apigenin inhibits CD38, leading to increased NAD+ levels, reduced protein acetylation, and improved metabolic parameters in obese models.

Why is NAD+ important for longevity?

NAD+ is essential for cellular metabolism and the activation of sirtuins, which are linked to improved healthspan and longevity.

Source: PubMed · Diabetes · published 2013-04-01.

## Sources

- PubMed · Diabetes: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23172919/