Nicotinamide (also known as niacinamide) is the amide form of niacin (vitamin B3) and is a water-soluble vitamin. It plays a vital role in cellular metabolism and the production of energy. Nicotinamide is involved in the synthesis of NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), which is crucial for various enzymatic reactions in the body, particularly in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Here’s some basic information:
Chemical Structure of Nicotinamide：
- IUPAC name: Pyridine-3-carboxamide
- Molecular formula: C₆H₆N₂O
- Molar mass: 122.12 g/mol
- Other names: Niacinamide, 3-pyridinecarboxamide
Biological Functions of Nicotinamide:
- NAD+ precursor: Nicotinamide is a precursor to NAD+, a coenzyme essential for numerous enzymatic reactions involved in energy production, DNA repair, and cell signaling.
- Enzyme activation: It activates enzymes such as sirtuins, which are involved in cellular stress resistance and longevity.
- DNA repair: Nicotinamide helps in DNA repair mechanisms, which is important in maintaining genomic stability.
Sources of Nicotinamide:
Nicotinamide can be obtained from:
- Dietary sources: Meat, fish, poultry, whole grains, and legumes.
- Synthesis in the body: The body can synthesize nicotinamide from tryptophan, an amino acid found in many protein-rich foods.
Uses of Nicotinamide:
- Topical applications: In skincare, nicotinamide is used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help with conditions like acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.
- Nutritional supplements: As a form of niacin, it is used to prevent or treat niacin deficiency (pellagra), which can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, dermatitis, and dementia.
- Anti-aging: Due to its role in NAD+ production, nicotinamide is often included in supplements aimed at anti-aging and improving cellular function.
Deficiency:
- Pellagra: A deficiency of niacin or tryptophan can lead to pellagra, characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia. However, nicotinamide supplementation is often used to treat this condition.
Side Effects:
- Topical use: Generally well-tolerated, but in some cases, it may cause mild irritation or redness in sensitive individuals.
- Oral use: High doses may cause flushing, gastrointestinal upset, or liver toxicity, though nicotinamide (unlike niacin) is less likely to cause the “niacin flush.”
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