NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a coenzyme central to metabolism in research models. Preliminary studies have shown that NAD+’s main role is in redox reactions, where it moves electrons during metabolic processes.
 
Besides energy metabolism, research shows NAD+ may also be a key substrate for enzymes such as sirtuins and PARPs in research subjects. These enzymes are involved in:
DNA repair, as suggested by preliminary studies
Regulation of circadian rhythm as observed in preclinical models
Cell signaling and stress response as studied in research models
Modulation of inflammation in research setting.

NAD+ may work as an electron carrier in metabolism, as observed in preclinical models. It may accept electrons from one molecule to become NADH and donate them to another molecule, as observed in preclinical models.
The electron transfer is essential in glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation for energy (ATP) production. Here are some of the other ways NAD+ may work in research models:
NAD+ has been shown to act as a co-substrate as well. It is used by different enzymes such as sirtuins and PARPs. Sirtuins regulate gene expression, DNA repair, metabolism, and circadian rhythm. PARPs are involved in DNA repair and other cellular stress responses.

NAD+ is still under investigation; however, preliminary studies have shown its following potential benefits in research subjects. They are not approved by any authority, and research on them is very limited:
May support cellular energy production in research subjects.
May enhance mitochondrial function in research models.
May improve DNA repair mechanisms in preclinical studies.
May reduce oxidative stress in research subjects.
May regulate circadian rhythm in research models.

The following are a few of the side effects observed in research subjects. However, long-term research is required to understand the full safety profile of these compounds.
May cause mild nausea in research subjects.
May lead to headaches in research models.
May trigger fatigue in clinical studies.
May cause flushing or warmth in research subjects.
May result in digestive discomfort in research models.