Molecular Characteristics
Complete Specifications
Structural Composition
Dinucleotide composed of adenine and nicotinamide bases linked through two ribose sugars and a pyrophosphate bridge
Physical Properties
NAD+ (oxidized form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a pyridine nucleotide coenzyme composed of two nucleotides joined through a pyrophosphate linkage. Its structure includes adenine and nicotinamide moieties attached to ribose sugars. As a redox-active molecule, NAD+ can be reduced to NADH under laboratory conditions. The compound is sensitive to light, heat, and moisture; therefore, storage in a dry, light-protected environment at controlled temperatures helps maintain stability. As a non-peptide molecule, it is not susceptible to proteolytic degradation.
Analysis & Documentation
Identity
Each production lot is checked against the reference structure recorded for this compound:
- Classification — Pyridine nucleotide coenzyme (non-peptide)
- Molecular formula — C₂₁H₂₇N₇O₁₄P₂
- Expected mass — ~663.43 Da
- CAS registry — 53-84-9
- Chain length — Not applicable (non-peptide dinucleotide)
- PubChem CID — 5892
Analytical Methods
Testing is carried out per lot by an independent laboratory. The methods measure what the material is and how much of it is the target compound:
- RP-HPLC — reverse-phase separation of the target from process-related impurities; purity is reported as area percent of the main peak
- Mass spectrometry — observed mass compared against the expected molecular mass above
- Retention time — compared against a reference standard run under the same conditions
- Chromatogram — reproduced on the certificate so the peak and any shoulders can be inspected directly
Material & Documentation
What arrives, and how to tie it back to its paperwork:
- Appearance as supplied — White to off-white hygroscopic powder
- Solubility — Highly soluble in water and buffered aqueous solutions
- Lot number — printed on the container label and used to look up the certificate
- Certificate — indexed by lot at Certificates of Analysis
Laboratory Handling and Storage Protocols
Lyophilized Powder Storage
- Store at –20°C to –80°C in the original, sealed vial
- Protect from light exposure and moisture
- A desiccated storage environment is recommended
- Stability data suggests extended stability when stored at −20 °C or below.
Reconstituted Solution Storage
- Short-term storage: Up to 7 days at 4°C
- Long-term storage: Store at –20°C in aliquots
- Use single-use aliquots to preserve peptide integrity
- Minimize freeze–thaw cycles; single-use aliquots are strongly recommended
Stability Characteristics
NAD+ is a biologically active coenzyme with moderate stability in solid form and increased sensitivity to degradation once dissolved in aqueous solution. Proper cold storage, protection from light, and minimized freeze–thaw exposure help maintain compound integrity. When handled appropriately, NAD+ supports consistent use in biochemical, enzymatic, and analytical research applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NAD+?
NAD+ is a coenzyme essential for cellular metabolism. It functions as an electron carrier in oxidation–reduction (redox) reactions and is involved in multiple enzymatic processes within the cell.
Is NAD⁺ naturally occurring?
Yes. NAD⁺ is naturally present in all living cells and is essential for metabolic processes. Synthetic NAD⁺ used in research replicates this endogenous molecule.
How does NAD⁺ differ from NADH?
NAD⁺ is the oxidized form of the molecule, while NADH is the reduced form. The balance between NAD⁺ and NADH is often studied as a marker of cellular metabolic state and redox status.
Is NAD⁺ a peptide?
No. NAD⁺ is not a peptide. It is a coenzyme composed of two nucleotides linked through phosphate groups.
How is NAD⁺ supplied?
NAD⁺ is typically supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder or crystalline compound in sealed research vials to maintain stability during storage and transport.
How should unreconstituted NAD⁺ be stored?
Unreconstituted NAD⁺ should be stored:
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Long-term: −20 °C or below
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Short-term: 2–8 °C
Keep containers sealed and protected from light, heat, and moisture.
How should reconstituted NAD⁺ solutions be handled and stored?
Once reconstituted:
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Store at 2–8 °C for short-term laboratory use
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Minimize exposure to light and air
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Prepare fresh solutions when possible for experimental accuracy
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Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles
Does NAD⁺ require a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) should be available for each batch, verifying identity, purity, and analytical testing results to ensure research quality and traceability.
Is NAD⁺ FDA-approved?
When sold as a research compound, NAD⁺ is not FDA-approved for diagnostic, therapeutic, or consumption purposes and must be marketed strictly for laboratory research use.
Research Background
For a referenced overview of what the published research on this compound examines — and what it does not establish — see What Is NAD+? Research Background and Study Areas. It cites peer-reviewed sources and contains no dosing guidance.
This product is not for human consumption. It is sold strictly for research and educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Any clinical data or research information referenced on this page is derived from peer-reviewed scientific literature and official publications. This information is provided for educational reference only and does not constitute medical advice or product claims.
By purchasing this product, you acknowledge that you are a qualified researcher and agree to use it in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
