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Updated: May 8, 2026
14:32
Deacetylation Assays to Unravel the Interplay between Sirtuins (SIRT2) and Specific Protein-substrates
Published on: February 27, 2016
Introduction: sirtuins in aging and diseases
1Glenn Lab for the Science of Aging and Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|September 10, 2013
Summary
Sirtuins, a family of NAD(+)-dependent deacetylases, are linked to aging and longevity across species. Research explores their role in aging, diseases, and potential therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Gerontology
Background:
- Sirtuin research has surged in the last 15 years, initially linked to aging in yeast.
- Studies show sirtuin homologs (SIR2) extend lifespan in C. elegans, Drosophila, and mice.
- Yeast Sir2p and mammalian SIRT1 function as NAD(+)-dependent protein deacetylases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence linking sirtuins to the physiological effects of caloric restriction (CR).
- To examine the relationship between sirtuins, aging, and lifespan.
- To discuss sirtuin involvement in age-related diseases and therapeutic potential.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on sirtuins, aging, and caloric restriction.
- Analysis of research on sirtuin homologs in various model organisms.
- Examination of data on mammalian sirtuin (SIRT1-7) functions and localization.
Main Results:
- Sirtuins, particularly SIRT1, are NAD(+)-dependent deacetylases involved in key cellular processes.
- Mammalian sirtuins exhibit distinct cellular localization (nuclear, mitochondrial, cytoplasmic), suggesting diverse functions.
- Evidence indicates sirtuins mediate effects of caloric restriction and influence aging and lifespan.
Conclusions:
- Sirtuins play a crucial role in the aging process and lifespan regulation.
- Dysregulation of sirtuins is implicated in age-related diseases.
- Targeting sirtuins offers promising therapeutic avenues for treating major diseases.
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