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NMNAT2 catalyzes the conversion of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) and ATP to NAD+ and pyrophosphate. This reaction is essential for maintaining cellular NAD+ levels, which are critical for energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cell signaling . Unlike NMNAT1, which is localized in the nucleus, NMNAT2 is predominantly found in the cytoplasm and is highly expressed in the brain .
NMNAT2 is critical for neuronal health. It acts as an axon maintenance factor, delaying Wallerian degeneration, a process that leads to the loss of damaged axons . This enzyme’s role in maintaining NAD+ levels is vital for neuronal survival and function. Loss of NMNAT2 is associated with neurodegenerative conditions, highlighting its importance in neuroprotection .
While mutations in the NMNAT1 gene are known to cause Leber congenital amaurosis, a severe retinal dystrophy, mutations in NMNAT2 or NMNAT3 genes have not been linked to any specific human diseases . However, chronic inflammation due to obesity and other factors can reduce NMNAT and NAD+ levels in various tissues, potentially impacting overall health .