Sirtuins as potential therapeutic targets for mitigating OxInflammation in typical Rett syndrome: plausible mechanisms and evidence

Abstract

Graphical abstract Abstract Rett syndrome (RTT), a monogenic neurodevelopmental disorder mainly affecting female, is caused by mutations in X-linked MECP2 gene, an ubiquitous epigenetic regulator. In addition to neurological issues, RTT patients show a variety of multisystem manifestations and impairment of different signalling and metabolic pathways, including compromised mitochondrial function, altered redox homeostasis, improper cholesterol metabolism and subclinical inflammation. The sirtuin family (SIRTs), comprising seven members, catalyses the NAD+-dependent deacetylation, ADP-ribosylation and deacylation of a wide range of targets and works as sensors of cellular energetic status. In addition, SIRTs can modulate activities and gene expression of proteins involved in cellular stress responses related to oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunctions and inflammation, in both physiological and pathological conditions. Given some shared molecular aspects, herein, we revised the current scientific literature and hypothesized the possible relationship of SIRTs signalling involvement in RTT pathogenesis and OxInflammation. Although further research is needed, uncovering the possible involvement of SIRTs in RTT could reveal new potential pharmacological targets for the disorder. In light of this, SIRT-enhancing compounds could likely represent a new option to be tested as co-adjuvant alternatives to the current therapies.