β-Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation prolongs the lifespan of prematurely aged mice and protects colon function in ageing mice

Abstract

Ageing is defined as the degeneration of physiological functions in numerous tissues and organs of an organism, which occurs with age. As we age, the gut undergoes a series of changes and weaknesses that may contribute to overall ageing. Emerging evidence suggests that β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) plays a role in regulating intestinal function, but there is still a lack of literature on its role in maintaining the colon health of ageing mice. In our research, Zmpste24^−/− mice proved that NMN prolonged their life span and delayed senescence. This study was designed to investigate the effects of long-term intervention on regulating colon function in ageing mice. Our results indicated that NMN improved the pathology of intestinal epithelial cells and intestinal permeability by upregulating the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins and the number of goblet cells, increasing the release of anti-inflammatory factors, and increasing beneficial intestinal bacteria. NMN increased the expression of the proteins SIRT1, NMNAT2, and NMNAT3 and decreased the expression of the protein P53. It also regulated the activity of ISCs by increasing Wnt/β-catenin and Lgr5. Our findings also revealed that NMN caused a significant increase in the relative abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila and Bifidobacterium pseudolongum and notable differences in metabolic pathways related to choline metabolism in cancer. In summary, NMN supplementation can delay frailty in old age, aid healthy ageing, and delay gut ageing.