Low-dose NMN restored cognition by increasing serotonin receptor levels in the hippocampus
The compound NP, which is present in dishwashing and laundry detergents, has been prohibited in the European Union due to its hazardous nature. Exposure to high doses of NP can result in reproductive damage and cognitive impairments, primarily affecting estrogen receptors. The extent of NP exposure in individuals outside the European Union remains uncertain, and currently, there are no identified remedies to safeguard cognition for those exposed to high levels of NP.
A recent study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology by Liu and colleagues from the South China Agricultural University investigated the effects of NP exposure on rats' learning and memory. The study revealed that treatment with low-dose NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) restored cognition by increasing serotonin receptor levels in the hippocampus, a vital region responsible for learning and memory. These findings suggest that NMN may hold the potential in preventing cognitive decline in individuals exposed to high levels of NP.
To assess the impact of NMN on cognition following NP exposure, the researchers conducted a passive avoidance test with rats. This test gauged fear-based memory by measuring the rats' latency to enter a darkened compartment, where they had previously received a foot shock. NP exposure significantly reduced the rats' step-through latency, indicating impaired learning and memory. However, when the rats were treated with low-dose NMN alongside NP exposure, their step-through latency durations were restored, indicating improved learning and memory. These results imply that NMN supplementation can help alleviate cognitive impairments caused by NP exposure.
Low-dose NMN enhances the abundance of all three serotonin receptor types
The study further explored the mechanisms behind NMN's cognitive restoration. The researchers focused on serotonin receptors in the hippocampus and found that NP exposure considerably decreased their levels. Low-dose NMN treatment alongside NP exposure restored the levels of three types of serotonin receptors (5-HTR1A, 5-HTR4, and 5-HTR6), while medium and high NMN doses only restored the abundance of one type (5-HTR1A). These findings indicate that low-dose NMN enhances the abundance of all three serotonin receptor types, thereby contributing to cognition restoration, whereas higher doses primarily impact one type. However, the statistical significance of cognition restoration with higher NMN doses was not established.
The study provides support for the notion that low-dose NMN supplementation can restore cognition in rats exposed to NP. Additionally, it was observed that low-dose NMN treatment increased serotonin receptor levels associated with memory formation and retrieval. The precise mechanism by which NMN confers these benefits remains largely unknown, but it may involve sirtuin proteins and their dependence on the longevity-promoting molecule NAD+.
Further research is necessary to comprehend the reproductive damage and cognitive impairments caused by NP in humans. NMN exhibits promise in counteracting the detrimental effects of NP, particularly with regard to cognitive function.
NMN recommended daily dosage is 250 mg -600 mg.
NMN can be obtained at a cost of 1500INR to up to 5000INR for a month's supply, with a recommended daily dosage of 250 mg -600 mg.
Thinking of trying NMN? Read Top 5 NMN Supplements In India: A Brief Review
The successful low-dose treatment of 125 mg/kg observed in the study rats is equivalent to approximately 600 mg per day for a human weighing 165 pounds. To achieve similar cognition-preserving effects in humans, a daily intake of around 500 mg or more of NMN may be required.
NMN is also used to increase healthspan and longevity
