Role of sirtuin 1 in depression‑induced coronary heart disease: Molecular pathways and therapeutic potential (Review)

Shijie Zheng1,2, Linlin Yang3, Qiuting Dai1

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Renhe Hospital of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443001, P.R. China.

Biomedical Reports
|January 30, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) enzyme protects against heart disease linked to depression by managing oxidative stress and inflammation. Further research aims to develop SIRT1-based therapies for cardiovascular complications in depressed patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Psychiatry
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Depression is a major psychiatric disorder and a significant risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD).
  • The interplay between depression and CHD poses a substantial global health challenge.
  • Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), an enzyme dependent on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), plays a role in cardiovascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the critical role of SIRT1 in mitigating cardiovascular risks associated with depression.
  • To explore SIRT1's mechanisms in protecting the heart from depression-related damage.
  • To highlight SIRT1 as a potential therapeutic target for cardiovascular complications in depression.

Main Methods:

  • This is a review article, synthesizing existing research on SIRT1, depression, and CHD.
  • The review focuses on the molecular pathways modulated by SIRT1, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic processes.
  • Analysis of SIRT1's impact on endothelial function and atherosclerotic plaque stability.

Main Results:

  • SIRT1 demonstrates cardioprotective effects by modulating key pathways involved in CHD pathogenesis in depressed individuals.
  • SIRT1 influences endothelial dysfunction, prevents atherosclerotic plaque formation, and stabilizes existing plaques.
  • These actions collectively reduce the overall risk of CHD in the context of depression.

Conclusions:

  • SIRT1 is a crucial molecule for addressing cardiovascular complications arising from depression.
  • Further molecular-level research is needed to fully elucidate the relationship between SIRT1, depression, and CHD.
  • Translating these findings into clinical interventions is the ultimate goal for managing depression-related cardiovascular risks.

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