SIRT1 in cardiovascular aging

• We overview the functions of SIRT1 against cardiovascular aging.
• SIRT1 retards cardiovascular aging via inhibiting oxidative stress.
• SIRT1 delays cardiovascular aging by suppressing inflammation.
• SIRT1 slows cardiovascular aging through promotion of autophagy.
• SIRT1 is a promising protective molecule to treat age-related CVDs.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, with aging as the key independent risk factor. Effective interventions are necessary to delay aging. Sirtuin1 (SIRT1), a NAD+-dependent histone deacetylase, is closely related to lifespan extension. SIRT1 exerts beneficial effects on aging and age-related diseases, such as atherosclerosis. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the functions of SIRT1 in cardiovascular aging, focusing on the underlying molecular mechanisms, including inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation, and induction of autophagy. We also demonstrate that moderate up-regulation or activation of SIRT1 in cardiovascular aging and age-related CVD may confer important application values.