Sirtuin activation and the 12 hallmarks of aging

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Aging is a complex process that affects all living beings. As we age, our cells and organs undergo a series of changes that make them more vulnerable to various diseases. But what really causes these changes? And, most importantly, is there anything we can do about it?

The 12 signs of aging

Scientific research has identified 12 key processes that together cause and explain the aging process. These are known as the “Hallmarks of Aging” or the 12 signs of aging:

  1. Genomic Instability: accumulation of DNA damage that compromises cellular integrity.
  2. Telomere Shortening: the progressive reduction of telomere sequences in chromosomes during cell division.
  3. Epigenetic Alterations: changes in the regulation of gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.
  4. Loss of Proteostasis: dysfunction in the mechanisms that ensure proper protein folding and degradation.
  5. Disabled Macroautophagy: decreased ability of cells to eliminate damaged components.
  6. Deregulation of Nutrient Sensing: alterations in the pathways that regulate metabolism in response to nutrient availability.
  7. Mitochondrial Dysfunction: deterioration of mitochondrial function, affecting energy production.
  8. Cellular Senescence: accumulation of senescent cells that contribute to chronic inflammation.
  9. Stem Cell Exhaustion: decreased regenerative capacity of tissues.
  10. Altered Intercellular Communication: changes in how cells communicate with each other.
  11. Chronic Inflammation: persistent inflammatory response that may contribute to age-related diseases.
  12. Dysbiosis: alterations in the gut microbiota that affect overall health.
Figure: López-Otín, C., Blasco, M. A., Partridge, L., Serrano, M., & Kroemer, G. (2023). Hallmarks of aging: An expanding universe. Cell, 186(2), 243–278. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.CELL.2022.11.001

Each of these processes significantly contributes to the deterioration of our cells and organs as we age and allow scientists to divide aging in 12 different processes that can be studied and treated individually when trying to find a way to slow or ameliorate the ravages of aging. But the most interesting part is that they are all closely related to a reduction of the production and activity of a family of proteins known as sirtuins and restoring them can have beneficial effects in all 12 hallmarks.

The role of sirtuins in aging

sirtuins

Sirtuins are a group of seven enzymes (SIRT1 to SIRT7) that play a fundamental role in regulating numerous cellular processes. These proteins act as metabolic sensors and modulators that respond to changes in nutrient levels and stress within the cell.

When cells find themselves in nutrient scarcity or stress conditions, sirtuins are activated and trigger a series of responses that help the cell adapt and survive. This includes processes such as DNA repair, gene expression regulation, metabolism control, and induction of autophagy.

However, as we age, the levels and activity of sirtuins tend to decrease. This directly contributes to the emergence of the 12 signs of aging, increasing the risk of developing age-related diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Activating sirtuins for healthy aging

Given the fundamental role of sirtuins deficiencies in the aging process, science has focused its efforts on discovering methods to activate these proteins, aiming to delay aging and promote greater longevity.

An innovative solution in this area is Pterovita®, which combines two natural compounds: pterostilbene and picolinic acid. Pterostilbene is recognized as a potent activator of SIRT1, one of the most researched sirtuins for the beneficial effects that restoring it to healthy levels brings on healthy aging.

Numerous studies have shown that pterostilbene has positive effects on various signs of aging. For example, it has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce oxidative stress, decrease chronic inflammation, and optimize metabolism, and all these benefits are thanks to the activation of SIRT1 and modulation of longevity-related signaling pathways.

However, one of the main challenges of pterostilbene is its low bioavailability making it very difficult to reach the needed in the body’s cell to gain the above benefits with oral supplementation. This is where Pterovita® stands out, as its formulation greatly improves the absorption of pterostilbene in the body, ensuring that it reaches the cells in sufficient concentrations to effectively activate SIRT1.

But Pterovita® not only increases the bioavailability of pterostilbene; it also enhances its effects through synergy with picolinic acid, which provides additional benefits, such as neuroprotection.

Compounds like Pterovita®, which enhance sirtuin activity, offer a promising strategy for promoting healthy aging and delaying the onset of age-related diseases. By acting on the key processes that drive aging, we can keep our cells and organs younger internally, improving our quality of life.

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Aging is a complex biological process that affects all multicellular organisms, characterized by a progressive decline in cellular function and increased vulnerability to diseases. This phenomenon manifests through physiological changes impacting overall health, such as DNA damage accumulation, increased oxidative