Sirtuins: Role in the Regulation of Oxidative Stress and the Pathogenesis of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Sirtuins (SIRTs) are a family of histone deacetylases which epigenetically regulate major cell functions. This review analyzes the role of SIRTs in controlling oxidation-reduction reactions in cells in stress. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are among the causes of the development of neurodegenerative pathologies – Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). SIRTs supporting the antioxidant defense of neurons may play an important role in the pathogenesis of AD and PD. This article summarizes the molecular mechanisms of the neuroprotective properties of SIRT1, 2, 3, and 6 in AD and SIRT1 and 3 in PD. The roles of other proteins of the SIRT family in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases requires further study. SIRTs may have potential as diagnostic markers and treatment targets in AD and PD.