nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) levels increase with age in the body Thinking Kicking off 5 searches Looking at 52 sites Putting it all together Yes, nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) levels and activity increase with age in the body, particularly in tissues such as skeletal muscle, liver, and adipose tissue . This age-related increase is associated with several metabolic changes that are considered key factors in the aging process and age-related diseases. NNMT's function and its role in aging NNMT is an enzyme that regulates metabolism by using S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to methylate nicotinamide (NAM), a precursor for the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). As NNMT activity increases with age, it disrupts key metabolic pathways in the following ways: Depletes NAD+: The methylation process consumes NAM, which reduces the amount available for the synthesis of NAD+. Lower NAD+ levels are linked to cellular aging and impaired mitochondrial function. Increases homocysteine: The NNMT enzymatic reaction also produces S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine (SAH), which is then converted into homocysteine (Hcy). Elevated homocysteine levels are a risk factor for age-related conditions like cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Contributes to sarcopenia: High NNMT expression is a key factor in the metabolic dysfunction of aging skeletal muscle. Studies in aged mice have shown that inhibiting NNMT can improve muscle regeneration and function. NNMT's connection to age-related diseases The increase in NNMT levels and activity over time is associated with the onset and progression of several age-related conditions, including: Diabetes: Elevated NNMT levels have been observed in the fat and liver tissues of diabetic animal models. Inhibiting NNMT has been shown to protect against diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Cardiovascular disease: NNMT is linked to conditions such as hypertension and high cholesterol, and its inhibition is being investigated as a therapeutic strategy. Neurodegenerative disorders: Increased NNMT expression has been found in the neurons of patients with Alzheimer's disease. NNMT's effect on cellular metabolism and the promotion of autophagy also links it to Parkinson's disease