Abstract

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a variety of chronic diseases. One of the main factors involved in oxidative stress reduction is increased antioxidant potential. Several nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin E and carotenoids are known to act as antioxidants; however, niacin is one of the neglected antioxidant nutrients that may have an antioxidant action both independently, and also as a component of the glutathione redox cycle. Thus, this study aimed to review the studies that have examined the antioxidant properties of niacin and its effect on oxidative stress reduction. The results of the reviewed studies confirm the antioxidant nature of niacin and indicate that this vitamin can protect the body against oxidative stress, specifically lipid peroxidation and reperfusion oxidative injury. The mechanisms by which niacin protects the body against oxidative stress can be attributed to the glutathione redox cycle and also to other possible roles such as decreasing NADH+H+/NADP+ ratio as well as increasing the NAD+ content.

Authors and Affiliations