Niacin prevents and treats pellagra by replenishing NAD and NADP, essential coenzymes for cellular metabolism. This resolves the characteristic symptoms of dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia associated with the deficiency.
Niacin (Vitamin B3) is a crucial precursor for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP), which are essential coenzymes involved in numerous metabolic pathways, including cellular respiration and DNA repair. Niacin deficiency leads to pellagra, characterized by the '3 Ds': dermatitis (skin inflammation), diarrhea (digestive upset), and dementia (cognitive decline). Supplementation or dietary intake of niacin restores NAD and NADP levels, reversing the symptoms of pellagra and preventing its onset in individuals at risk.