A natural molecule found in coffee and the human body raises NAD+ levels, and enhances muscle function during ageing

A research team led by Nestlé Research in Switzerland and the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine), along with international collaborators, recently uncovered that trigonelline, found in coffee, fenugreek, and the human body, can enhance muscle health. Sarcopenia, the age-related weakening of muscles, results in muscle mass loss, reduced strength, and decreased independence. The team found lower trigonelline levels in older individuals with sarcopenia. Introducing trigonelline to pre-clinical models increased NAD+ levels, boosted mitochondrial activity, and preserved muscle function with age. NAD+ levels can be boosted with dietary precursors like L-tryptophan and vitamin B3 forms. This research highlights the role of nutrition and physical activity in maintaining muscle health with age. The discovery underscores the potential of trigonelline in promoting cellular metabolism and muscle health during ageing, offering promising translational implications.