Targeting sirtuins for the treatment of diabetes

ABSTRACT

The data on sirtuins and their antidiabetic potential are compelling, and on-going studies will determine whether sirtuin activators will be an effective therapeutic against diabetes. While it appears that sirtuins may not extend lifespan in humans as first predicted, it is becoming clear that sirtuins may improve quality of life and extend healthspan by combatting age-related defects, such as the metabolic abnormalities associated with Type 2 diabetes. The evidence from human SNP studies and high-fat fed rodent models suggest that dysfunction in various sirtuins may be a molecular mechanism linking overnutrition and diabetes. Thus, targeting sirtuins may be an effective method of treating or possibly even preventing the development of diabetes due to aging or unhealthy lifestyle.