Yang Lab

Dr. Cindy Yang's lab builds upon the research conducted by the late Dr. Anthony Sauve. Our primary focus is on investigating novel NAD⁺, their metabolic pathways, and the potential therapeutic benefits of altering NAD⁺ concentrations in cell and animal models. NAD⁺ is a vital coenzyme playing crucial roles in various biological processes, including energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular signaling. Our lab has developed the synthetic methodologies for various novel NAD⁺ precursors, including dihydronicotinamide riboside (NRH). We have also pioneered in advanced techniques to study NAD⁺ metabolism, including the development of isotope syntheses for key precursors such as nicotinamide, nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), enabling comprehensive investigations of their metabolism both in vitro and in vivo. Utilizing these powerful tools, we aim to manipulate NAD+ concentrations in pathological conditions, such as aging and metabolic diseases, as part of our endeavor to discover novel treatments that can effectively alleviate age-related and obesity-induced morbidities.