Nicotinic acid (Niacin)

Nicotinic acid (niacin) is a water-soluble B vitamin (vitamin B3), essential for synthesis of the coenzymes NAD and NADP, which play critical roles in cellular energy metabolism, redox reactions, and DNA repair. Deficiency results in pellagra, while pharmacological doses are used mainly for their lipid-modifying effects, reducing LDL and triglycerides and elevating HDL cholesterol. Niacin itself is not a classical target (such as a receptor or enzyme) but is a nutrient and a therapeutic agent. It is rapidly absorbed and converted to active coenzyme forms, and can cause side effects such as flushing and hepatotoxicity at high doses[1][2][3][5][6].\n\nNote: \nIf you are seeking information on a *receptor* or *protein target* for niacin, the canonical form is *Hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 2 (GPR109A)*, also called the \"niacin receptor\"[3]. Niacin as listed is the active molecule/drug, not the target.

Other names

Vitamin B3Nicotinic acidNiacinamide (different related form)Pyridine-3-carboxylic acidAntipellagra vitaminVitamin PP3-Picolinic acidNicotine acidNiacNicotinamideVB3

As a lipid therapy: Niacin inhibits hepatic diacylglycerol acyltransferase 2, lowering VLDL, LDL, and increasing HDL via direct and indirect action on hepatic metabolism\nAs a vitamin: Used in cellular metabolism, main mechanism is acting as NAD/NADP precursor to support redox reactions\nMay also activate GPR109A (niacin receptor), mediating therapeutic and side effects