Anti-ageing proteins
They are called SIRT and they are responsible for the production of sirtuinsSirtuins are proteins expressed by SIRT genes that perform an enzymatic activity, which means they stimulate chemical reactions essential for the body. Their function has been ascertained by several studies, although there still seems to be a lot to know about them. SIRTs in short:• are proteins with enzymatic properties
• regulate the metabolic processes related to insulin resistance
• have a control over immunity
• have a fundamental role in epigenetics
• are involved in defences against cancer
, fundamental proteins that allow the cell to live longer. Scientists have begun to understand how to stimulate them pharmacologically but also with natural molecules.When we are too stressed, it is often necessary to stop, take a break and regain energy. This rule applies not only to us, but also to our cells.If they are subjected to stress our cells rest and renovate themselves. Natural evolution has selected precise mechanisms that allow cells to enter a state of “stand-by”: a recovery system that prolongs the life of the cell and also that of our organism. But how does this work?
They are called SIRT genesFamily composed by 7 genes important for the regulation of the metabolic processes of the cell, in particular responsible for its survival in particular risky conditions (low temperature, physical stress and fasting). Also called Longevity Genes. and there are seven of them within the human cells.
Sirtuins are essential proteins for the survival of all living organisms, which are activated in the presence of threats or different stress conditions.
Sirtuins, ageing and disease
What does all this have to do with longevity? Several studies have shown how the activity of sirtuins can slow down the ageing process and can reduce the risk of related diseases, such as cancer, metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases.If sirtuin activity is compromised, the risk of metabolic syndromethe metabolic syndrome is characterized by the simultaneous presence of at least 3 metabolic and haemodynamic alterations that represent a high risk factor for the onset of cardiovascular diseases and tumors. and diabetes increases, and we become more susceptible to the negative effects of high-fat diets.For example, it has been observed that if sirtuin activity is compromised, not only the risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes increase, but also the other negative effects of high-fat dietary regimens are exacerbated. In addition, scientists have highlighted how sirtuin activity is fundamental for the maintenance of cardiac health. Sirtuins also maintain proper functioning of the circadian rhythm, also known as the sleep-wake cycle, which is highly affected by ageing. These are some of the reasons for which sirtuins have been defined as longevity proteins.Strategies to stimulate sirtuins
Today we know several ways to stimulate sirtuin production. As mentioned above, intermittent fasting or a simple reduction in daily calorie intake has long been linked to an increase in average life expectancy in several species.Several natural molecules have been identified which are able to activate sirtuins. These include resveratrolActive ingredient of natural origin with recognized antioxidant capacity (stilbene polyphenol). It is found in plants such as vines and in fruits such as cocoa and blackberries., which has also been demonstrated to prolong the life of cells. Another natural molecule that has recently attracted the attention of researchers is Vitamin B3, or rather a particular form called NRIt is called nicotinamide riboside, or Nr a form of vitamin B3 that promises to block the aging of internal organs, having a positive effect on the functioning of stem cells and the ability of organs to regenerate. (nicotinamide riboside). In recent years scientific evidence has been accumulating for the use of certain plant-derived natural molecules to prevent age-related diseases. These molecules can now be used safely in the formulation of new dietary supplements with well-identified mechanisms correlated with improved lifespan.When it enters cells, NR turns itself into a molecule called NADNAD (Nicotinamide adenindinucleotide ) is a co-enzyme essential to the metabolism of the cell, intervening in the activity of more than 200 enzyme proteins that govern the energy process of the cell itself. With age, one becomes deficient in this co-enzyme by altering cell catabolism. (nicotinamide adenin dinucleotide), which is essential for the activity of more than 500 enzymes, including sirtuins.As we age, NAD levels diminish, which results in decreased functioning of sirtuins and many other enzymes. It has been shown, however, that dietary supplementation with NR regenerates physiological NAD levels and activates sirtuins.In recent years, strong experimental evidence has been accumulating in favor of the efficacy of such supervitamins in the prevention of age-related diseases.