In a paper published recently in the journal GeroScience, the UC Irvine team reports that a combination of naturally occurring compounds – nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) and epigallocatechin gallate (a green tea antioxidant) – can reinstate levels of guanosine triphosphate, an essential energy molecule in brain cells. In tests on neurons in a dish, the treatment reversed age-related cellular deficits and improved the brain cells’ ability to clear damaging amyloid protein aggregates, an Alzheimer’s hallmark.
The researchers used a genetically encoded fluorescent sensor called GEVAL to track live guanosine triphosphate levels in neurons from aged Alzheimer’s model mice. They discovered that free GTP levels declined with age – particularly in mitochondria, the cells’ energy hubs – leading to impaired autophagy, the process by which cells eliminate damaged components.
But when aged neurons were treated for just 24 hours with nicotinamide and epigallocatechin gallate, GTP levels were restored to those typically seen in younger cells. This revival triggered a cascade of benefits: improved energy metabolism; activation of key GTPases involved in cellular trafficking, Rab7 and Arl8b; and efficient clearance of amyloid beta aggregates. Oxidative stress, another contributor to neurodegeneration, was also reduced.
More work is going to be required to find the best way to administer this treatment, since a recent clinical trial involving UC Irvine researchers showed that oral nicotinamide was not very effective because of inactivation in the bloodstream.
Other Forms of B3- Niacinamide Helps Reduce Arthritis Inflammation
While there are many natural options for arthritis, the most well known is probably glucosamine, sometimes mixed with chondroitin and MSM. While these supplements do seem to have somewhat of a beneficial effect in treating arthritis, the effect size is usually minimal or modest. One natural treatment option that is not as well known today is niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3.
Kaufman discovered through much trial and error that the frequency of the doses are very important, sometimes even more important than the total dose. He always advocated small doses taken frequently. For severe patients, he would give a dose every hour, or sometimes even every half hour.
I, Brian Wang, have personally used niacinamide to reduce relatively mild arthritis pain and joint problems. Taking a low 100 mg dose every hour when there is a flare up.
You can use my referral link for a discount.
A 1996 pilot study found that 3 g/day (divided doses) for 12 weeks improved joint flexibility, reduced inflammation, and allowed lower use of anti-inflammatory drugs in patients. Other reports suggest doses of 1.5–4 g/day (e.g., 250–500 mg every few hours) for joint pain, with benefits like less stiffness appearing after 3–4 weeks.
Lower doses like 100mg more at hourly or half hour frequency for as many times as day as needed is what I and some other friends have found effective. This is not medical recommendations. I am just saying what I do and what information is in some studies.
B3 Background
Vitamin B3 primarily refers to a family of compounds with niacin activity. There are three main forms commonly discussed in nutritional and medical contexts, though some sources group them under two core structures (nicotinic acid and nicotinamide) with precursors like nicotinamide riboside considered as additional “boosters” that convert to the active coenzyme NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) in the body. The body can also convert the amino acid tryptophan (found in proteins) into nicotinamide, providing another indirect source.
The main forms of B3 are:
Nicotinic acid (niacin): The original form identified as vitamin B3.
Nicotinamide (niacinamide): A derivative often used in supplements and skincare.
Nicotinamide riboside (NR): A precursor form that efficiently raises NAD+ levels; sometimes included as a third form in modern research.
The body needs about 14–16 mg of niacin equivalents (NE) per day for adults (higher during pregnancy or lactation).
Brian Wang is a Futurist Thought Leader and a popular Science blogger with 1 million readers per month. His blog Nextbigfuture.com is ranked #1 Science News Blog. It covers many disruptive technology and trends including Space, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Anti-aging Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology.
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