Our work explores the functional connection between inhibition of NAD kinase (NADK) expression and congenital malformations using the nematode model C. elegans. We will use RNAi to knock down NADK to test the hypothesis that inhibition of this gene results in congenital malformations and changes the trajectory of aging in this model. These studies will provide insight into the association between NADK inhibition and congenital malformations as well as the impact of malformations on aging.