Overview

• An UC Irvine–led paper in GeroScience reports age‑linked declines in GTP, an under‑recognized energy currency, especially in mitochondria, which impaired autophagy in mouse neurons.
• Using a live‑cell fluorescent sensor, researchers showed that a 24‑hour treatment with nicotinamide (vitamin B3) and EGCG restored GTP to levels seen in younger cells.
• The intervention improved cellular energy metabolism and increased clearance of amyloid‑beta aggregates in cultured neurons.
• Both compounds are already sold as dietary supplements, yet efficacy beyond cell cultures has not been demonstrated and optimal administration remains unresolved.
• A recent study indicated oral nicotinamide was inactivated in the bloodstream, prompting work on alternative delivery strategies.