Genomics of aging: The role of sirtuin and metabolic health

Abstract

Healthy aging is not the result of a single factor. Genes, dietary choices/options, exercise, and environmental exposures all play a role. A family of seven nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)–dependent sirtuin proteins are very involved in various metabolic functions, such as glucose and fat regulation, and polymorphisms in these genes have been associated with the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and longevity. Nutraceuticals (i.e., resveratrol, quercetin, kaempferol, and curcumin) and other therapies (i.e., synthetic sirtuin-activating compounds, NAD, nicotinamide mononucleotide) are all being explored as in potential therapies in the sirtuin pathway and point to promising treatments to promote metabolic health and reduce obesity and age-related disease. For the clinician looking to reduce the risk of age-related metabolic disorders, evidence points to these supplements and appropriate food choices as the next generation of pharmaceutical grade therapies continue to be researched for human use.

Regulation of Gene Expression through Food—Curcumin as a Sirtuin Activity Modulator

“…Data regarding the mechanisms through which nutrients and dietary patterns may modulate the epigenome are scarce in literature [8,9]. Studying the nutritional factors that have a direct impact on enzymes involved in epigenetic regulation is of great importance, since it can be considered a stepping-stone in developing a guideline for preventing the development of age-related pathologies and ensuring healthy ageing.…”