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The effect of niacin on inflammatory markers and adipokines: a systematic review and meta-analysis of interventional studies.

  • 2024-05-18
  • European journal of nutrition 63(6)
    • Esmaeil Yousefi Rad
    • Somayeh Saboori
    • Jonathan Tammam
    • Pariyarath Sangeetha Thondre
    • Shelly Coe

Study Design

Type
Meta-Analysis
Methods
Comprehensive search across five databases: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase, and ISI Web of Science. Randomized controlled trials exploring effects of niacin on inflammatory markers and adipokines were included. Pooled effect sizes using random-effects model, subgroup analyses, sensitivity analysis, dose-response analysis.
  • Rigorous Journal

Purpose

Niacin (nicotinic acid), known for its lipid-modifying effects, has been explored for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and potential to affect adipokines secretion from adipose tissue. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effects of niacin on inflammatory markers and adipokines.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across five databases: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase, and ISI Web of Science. Randomized controlled trials exploring the effects of niacin on inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, TNF-α) and adipokines (Adiponectin, Leptin) were included. Pooled effect sizes were analysed using a random-effects model, and additional procedures including subgroup analyses, sensitivity analysis and dose-response analysis were also performed.

Results

From an initial 1279 articles, fifteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Niacin administration demonstrated a notable reduction in CRP levels (SMD: -0.88, 95% CI: -1.46 to -0.30, p = 0.003). Subgroup analyses confirmed CRP reductions in trials with intervention durations ≤ 24 weeks, doses ≤ 1000 mg/day, and elevated baseline CRP levels (> 3 mg/l). The meta-analysis of IL-6 and TNF-α revealed significant TNF-α reductions, while IL-6 reduction did not reach statistical significance. Niacin administration also substantially elevated Adiponectin (SMD: 3.52, 95% CI: 0.95 to 6.1, p = 0.007) and Leptin (SMD: 1.90, 95% CI: 0.03 to 3.77, p = 0.04) levels.

Conclusion

Niacin treatment is associated with significant reductions in CRP and TNF-α levels, suggesting potential anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, niacin positively influences adipokines, increasing Adiponectin and Leptin levels. These findings provide insights for future research and clinical applications targeting inflammation and metabolic dysregulation.

Research Insights

  • Vitamin B3→Increased Adiponectin Levels

    Niacin administration also substantially elevated Adiponectin (SMD: 3.52, 95% CI: 0.95 to 6.1, p = 0.007).

    Effect
    Beneficial
    Effect size
    Large
    Dose
    ≤ 1000 mg/day
  • Vitamin B3→Increased Leptin Level

    Niacin administration also substantially elevated Adiponectin (SMD: 3.52, 95% CI: 0.95 to 6.1, p = 0.007) and Leptin (SMD: 1.90, 95% CI: 0.03 to 3.77, p = 0.04) levels.

    Effect
    Neutral
    Effect size
    Moderate
    Dose
    ≤ 1000 mg/day
  • Vitamin B3→Reduced C-Reactive Protein Level

    Niacin administration demonstrated a notable reduction in CRP levels (SMD: -0.88, 95% CI: -1.46 to -0.30, p = 0.003).

    Effect
    Beneficial
    Effect size
    Large
    Dose
    ≤ 1000 mg/day
  • Vitamin B3→Reduced Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha

    The meta-analysis of IL-6 and TNF-α revealed significant TNF-α reductions, while IL-6 reduction did not reach statistical significance.

    Effect
    Beneficial
    Effect size
    Moderate
    Dose
    ≤ 1000 mg/day
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