Bioinformatic analysis of SIRT7 sequence and structure

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Structural Biology
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• Sirtuins are vital conserved proteins regulating cellular processes.
• SIRT7, the least studied sirtuin, impacts health and disease, with altered levels in cardiovascular disease, obesity, and cancer.
• Targeting SIRT7 activity offers therapeutic potential for diverse conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the sequence and structure of SIRT7 orthologs across various organisms using bioinformatics.
• To identify conserved regions and key residues within the SIRT7 catalytic domain.
• To construct a phylogenetic tree and predict 3D structures of SIRT7 orthologs.

Main Methods:

• Bioinformatic analysis of SIRT7 ortholog sequences and structures.
• Identification of conserved catalytic domain residues.
• Phylogenetic analysis of SIRT7 across different taxa.
• Prediction of three-dimensional SIRT7 structures.

Main Results:

• The SIRT7 catalytic domain is highly conserved (83.23% identity) with identified key residues (e.g., D118, Y119, R120).
• Phylogenetic analysis revealed distinct clustering of SIRT7 orthologs from mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and arachnids.
• Predicted 3D structures showed a conserved catalytic core with unique N- and C-terminal regions specific to phylogenetic groups.

Conclusions:

• SIRT7 exhibits significant conservation in its catalytic domain, crucial for its function.
• Phylogenetic and structural analyses provide insights into SIRT7 evolution and diversity.
• Findings support the future development of small molecules targeting SIRT7 for human and animal health benefits.