Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Tryptophan
FAD, PLP
Niacin
Functions
Over 400 enzymes require niacin coenzymes
– Coenzymes (H+ donor or electron acceptor)
• Oxidative reactions uses NADH (TCA, ETC—energy
release (ATP)
– Glycolysis, PDH reaction, TCA cycle, Beta-oxidation, ethanol
• Reductive biosynthesis uses NADPH (Fatty acids,
cholesterol & steroid H)
– Fatty acids, cholesterol, & steroid hormone synthesis
• Folate metabolism (coenzymes synthesis DHF and THF)
– Nonredox roles
• Act as a donor of ADP –ribose for the posttranslational
modification of proteins
• Important role in DNA repair & gene stability
Recommended Daily Allowance - Niacin
• Dementia
– Confusion, disorientation
– Other neurologic manifestations include headache,
fatigue, peripheral neuritis
• Problem:
– Impaired absorption of tryptophan
– Impaired synthesis of niacin from tryptophan
• Treatment:
– High protein diet
– Niacin supplement
– Avoidance of exposure to sunlight
Clinical Relevance: Toxicity
Age UL (mg/day)
1-3 yrs 10
4-8 15
9-13 20
14-18 30
19+ 35
Additional roles that may be of clinical
significance
• Nicotinic acid and blood lipids (up to 6g/ day)
– Lower total cholesterol, TAGs, LDL, Lipoprotein a
– Increase HDL
– 1g + day nicotinic acid associated with flushing (redness), GI distress (N & V)
– Extreme cases = liver failure
– Extended release (Niaspan) or coupled with prostaglandin antagonist to reduce symptoms of
flushing
• In vitro (cell culture) data suggests NAD may be involved in cancer initiation
• Nicotinamide may protect Beta-cells early in Type I Diabetes and has been used for
skin conditions (acne)
– Does not improve blood lipids
Drug Interactions
• Statins
– Rhabdomyolysis – breakdown of muscle, enzymes/electrolytes releases can
cause kidney damage
– Co- administering niacin enhances risk
• Chemotherapy agents
– Can cause symptoms of pellagra
– Supplementation may be warranted