What is the Origin of Sirtuin Activators?

The term is derived from "sirtuin," which stands for silent information regulator two (Sir2) homolog, initially discovered in yeast. The concept of "activators" emerged from the subsequent research that identified small molecules capable of modulating the activity of these highly conserved enzymes. This field is a central pillar of molecular biogerontology.

What is the Mechanism of Sirtuin Activators?

Sirtuins function by catalyzing the removal of acetyl groups from various target proteins, including histones and transcription factors, in a reaction that requires the co-factor NAD+. Activation of sirtuins by these molecules leads to changes in gene expression that favor cellular survival, DNA repair, and improved metabolic efficiency, often mimicking the effects of caloric restriction. By increasing the sirtuin's catalytic rate, activators enhance the cell's capacity to respond to and recover from metabolic stress.

Sirtuin Activators

Meaning

Sirtuin activators are a class of molecules, often naturally occurring compounds or synthetic mimetics, that increase the enzymatic activity of sirtuins, a family of NAD+-dependent protein deacetylases. These enzymes are critical regulators of cellular health, metabolism, DNA repair, and stress resistance. Clinically, the activation of sirtuins is a key target in longevity protocols, as enhanced sirtuin activity is associated with improved mitochondrial function and resistance to age-related diseases. Resveratrol and its derivatives are well-known examples of these activators.