The role of Sirt1: At the crossroad between promotion of longevity and protection against Alzheimer's disease neuropathology

Sirt1, a mammalian member of the sirtuin gene family, holds great potential for promoting longevity, preventing against disease and increasing cell survival. For example, studies suggest that the beneficial impact of caloric restriction in promoting longevity and cellular function may be mediated, in part, by Sirt1 through mechanisms involving PGC-1α, which plays important role in the regulation of cellular metabolism and inflammatory and antioxidant responses. Sirt1 may also interfere with mechanisms implicated in pathological disorders. We will present recent evidence indicating that Sirt1 may protect against Alzheimer's disease by interfering with the generation of β-amyloid peptides. We will discuss Sirt1 as a potential novel target, in addition to the development of Sirt1 activators for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.