Nicotinamide Riboside for Chronic Kidney Disease

(NR-CKD Trial)

RM
AA
Overseen ByArmin Ahmadi, PhD
Age: 18+
Sex: Any
Trial Phase: Phase 2
Sponsor: University of California, San Diego
No Placebo GroupAll trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)
Prior Safety DataThis treatment has passed at least one previous human trial

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial investigates whether a vitamin B3 supplement called nicotinamide riboside (NR) can benefit individuals with moderate chronic kidney disease. The primary goal is to determine the feasibility of participants taking NR daily and completing all study visits and procedures. Participants will receive either NR or a placebo (a pill resembling NR but without active ingredients) in different sequences to compare effects on cell energy, blood vessels, and physical ability. Suitable candidates for this trial are adults with moderate chronic kidney disease who can walk unassisted. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on assessing the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.

Is there any evidence suggesting that nicotinamide riboside is likely to be safe for humans?

Research has shown that nicotinamide riboside (NR), a type of vitamin B3, is generally safe for use. One study found that participants took up to 1000 mg twice a day without major safety issues, suggesting NR's safety even at higher doses.

Other studies support NR's safety, reporting no serious side effects. Additionally, NR aids cellular energy, enhancing its reputation as a safe supplement.

While researchers continue to study NR's effects on chronic kidney disease, these earlier findings suggest it is a safe choice for many people.12345

Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for chronic kidney disease?

Researchers are excited about nicotinamide riboside (NR) for chronic kidney disease because it offers a novel approach to treatment. Unlike standard treatments that often focus on managing symptoms through blood pressure and glucose control, NR acts on cellular metabolism by boosting levels of NAD+, a crucial molecule involved in energy production and cellular repair. This potential to enhance cellular health and function directly at the source is what makes NR stand out. Plus, NR is a form of vitamin B3, which could mean fewer side effects compared to other medications. This fresh angle on treatment holds promise for improving kidney function more effectively.

What evidence suggests that nicotinamide riboside might be an effective treatment for chronic kidney disease?

Research suggests that nicotinamide riboside (NR), a type of vitamin B3, might aid chronic kidney disease by increasing NAD+ levels. NAD+ is a molecule that helps cells produce energy, and its levels decrease in kidney disease. Studies have shown that NR can boost the number of mitochondria, the energy-generating parts of cells. In mouse studies, NR protected kidneys by improving energy use and reducing damage from harmful molecules called free radicals. Although NR has shown promise in animal studies, its effects on human kidney health remain under investigation. Participants in this trial will receive either NR or a placebo to further explore its potential benefits for chronic kidney disease.12346

Who Is on the Research Team?

AA

Armin Ahmadi, PhD

Principal Investigator

University of California, San Diego

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for adults with moderate chronic kidney disease who are able to attend study visits and follow instructions. People with severe kidney problems or other major health issues may not be eligible.

Inclusion Criteria

I can walk between rooms on my own, using my usual device if needed.
Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) <300 mg/g
Able to provide informed consent
See 2 more

Exclusion Criteria

Pregnancy
Current participation in another interventional trial
I am expected to start dialysis within 6 months.
See 9 more

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment Period 1

Participants receive either nicotinamide riboside or placebo for 12 weeks

12 weeks
Regular visits for blood and urine collection, physical function testing, and noninvasive tests

Washout/Crossover

Approximately 2-week washout period between treatments

2 weeks

Treatment Period 2

Participants receive the alternate treatment (nicotinamide riboside or placebo) for 12 weeks

12 weeks
Regular visits for blood and urine collection, physical function testing, and noninvasive tests

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment

4 weeks

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

  • Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)

Trial Overview

The study tests if taking nicotinamide riboside (a vitamin B3 supplement) daily is practical and safe for people with chronic kidney disease, compared to a placebo. Participants will take both NR and placebo in different periods, each lasting 12 weeks.

How Is the Trial Designed?

2

Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Placebo Then NRExperimental Treatment1 Intervention
Group II: NR Then PlaceboExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Find a Clinic Near You

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of California, San Diego

Lead Sponsor

Trials
1,215
Recruited
1,593,000+

Citations

NAD+ Metabolism and Interventions in Premature Renal ...

NMN supplementation had positive effects on chronic kidney changes after unilateral IRI in mice, Although NR successfully replenished NAD+ levels in the ...

Effects of NAD⁺ repletion with Nicotinamide riboside on ...

It moderately reduced renal dysfunction and was associated with increased mitochondrial content. in vivo, it does not prevent renal dysfunction ...

Study Details | NCT04040959 | Nicotinamide Riboside ...

Nicotinamide riboside may reduce vascular stiffness by acting on one or more of these pathways. Circulating biomarkers of potential mechanisms of action ( ...

NAD+ metabolism in acute kidney injury and chronic ...

Emerging evidence identifies NAD+ depletion as a key driver of metabolic dysfunction in acute kidney injury (AKI), linking energy deficits to poor clinical ...

Nicotinamide Riboside Supplementation in Chronic Kidney ...

This study is testing whether a dietary supplement called nicotinamide riboside, (NR), can be used in adults with moderate chronic kidney ...

NAD+ prevents chronic kidney disease by activating renal ...

We show that nicotinamide riboside (NR), an NAD + precursor, stimulated renal PPARα signaling and restored FAO in the proximal tubules, thereby protecting from ...