Resveratrol and Synthetic Sirtuin Activators

Dietary restriction is known to enhance longevity and reduce the incidence of age-related diseases. These positive health effects are believed to be due to an up-regulation of sirtuin enzymes that occurs under times of dietary stress. Sirtuin enzymes are found in a variety of tissues and function primarily as gene silencers. Sirtuins modulate biologic functions including energy homeostasis, stress response, cell-cycle regulation, insulin sensitivity, gluconeogenesis, lipid metabolism and lifespan. There has been a great deal of interest in identifying compounds that can mimic the effects of dietary restriction by activating sirtuins. In this chapter we will discuss resveratrol and other sirtuin-activating compounds and their potential role as anti-aging agents. Their use as nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals will be reviewed.