Sirtuin Inhibitors Research Articles

Aerobic training attenuates cardiac remodeling in mice post-myocardial infarction by inhibiting the p300/CBP-associated factor.

Aerobic training (AT), an effective form of cardiac rehabilitation, has been shown to be beneficial for cardiac repair and remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI). The p300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF) is one of the most important lysine acetyltransferases and is involved in various biological processes. However, the role of PCAF in AT and AT-mediated cardiac remodeling post-MI has not been determined. Here, we found that the PCAF protein level was significantly increased after MI, while AT blocked the increase in PCAF. AT markedly improved cardiac remodeling in mice after MI by reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). Invivo, similar to AT, pharmacological inhibition of PCAF by Embelin improved cardiac recovery and attenuated ERS in MI mice. Furthermore, we observed that both IGF-1, a simulated exercise environment, and Embelin protected from H2O2-induced cardiomyocyte injury, while PCAF overexpression by viruses or the sirtuin inhibitor nicotinamide eliminated the protective effect of IGF-1 in H9C2 cells. Thus, our data indicate that maintaining low PCAF levels plays an essential role in AT-mediated cardiac protection, and PCAF inhibition represents a promising therapeutic target for attenuating cardiac remodeling after MI.

GDF11 OVEREXPRESSION ALLEVIATES SEPSIS-INDUCED LUNG MICROVASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL BARRIER DAMAGE BY ACTIVATING SIRT1/NOX4 SIGNALING TO INHIBIT FERROPTOSIS.

Sepsis is a lethal clinical syndrome, and acute lung injury (ALI) is the earliest and most serious complication. We aimed to explore the role of growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) in sepsis-induced dysfunction of lung microvascular endothelial barrier in vivo and in vitro to elucidate its potential mechanism related to sirtuin 1 (SIRT1)/NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) signaling. Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis mice and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMECs) were used in this study. Histopathological changes in lung tissues were tested by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Lung wet-to-dry weight ratio and inflammatory factors contents in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were assessed. Evens blue index, trans-epithelial electrical resistance, and expression of zona occludens 1 (ZO-1), occludin-1, and claudin-1 were used to evaluate alveolar barrier integrity. Reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, and ferroptosis markers were analyzed. Iron deposition in the lung tissues was assessed using Prussian blue staining. Intracellular Fe 2+ level was detected using FerroOrange staining. Additionally, expression of GDF11, SIRT1, and NOX4 was estimated with western blot. Then, EX527, a SIRT1 inhibitor, was employed to treat GDF11-overexpressed PMECs with LPS stimulation to clarify the regulatory mechanism. Results showed that GDF11 overexpression attenuated sepsis-induced pathological changes and inflammation and maintained alveolar barrier integrity. Moreover, GDF11 overexpression inhibited ferroptosis, upregulated SIRT1 expression and downregulated NOX4 expression. Additionally, EX527 treatment relieved the impacts of GDF11 overexpression on ferroptosis and destruction of integrity of human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells exposed to LPS. Taken together, GDF11 overexpression could alleviate sepsis-induced lung microvascular endothelial barrier damage by activating SIRT1/NOX4 signaling to inhibit ferroptosis. Our findings potentially provide new molecular target for clinical therapy of ALI.

A homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence screen to identify SIRT2 deacetylase and defatty-acylase inhibitors.

Human sirtuin-2 (SIRT2) has emerged as an attractive drug target for a variety of diseases. The enzyme is a deacylase that can remove chemically different acyl modifications from protein lysine residues. Here, we developed a high-throughput screen based on a homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) binding assay to identify inhibitors of SIRT2's demyristoylase activity, which is uncommon among many ligands that only affect its deacetylase activity. From a test screen of 9600 compounds, we identified a small molecule that inhibited SIRT2's deacetylase activity (IC50 = 7 μM) as well as its demyristoylase activity (IC50 = 37 μM). The inhibitor was composed of two small fragments that independently inhibited SIRT2: a halogenated phenol fragment inhibited its deacetylase activity, and a tricyclic thiazolobenzimidazole fragment inhibited its demyristoylase activity. The high-throughput screen also detected multiple deacetylase-specific SIRT2 inhibitors.

H3K56 acetylation affects Candida albicans morphology and secreted soluble factors interacting with the host

In recent years, epigenetics has been revealed as a mechanism able to modulate the expression of virulence traits in diverse pathogens, including Candida albicans. Indeed, epigenetic regulation can sense environmental changes, leading to the rapid and reversible modulation of gene expression with consequent adaptation to novel environments. How epigenetic changes can impact expression and signalling output, including events associated with mechanisms of morphological transition and virulence, is still poorly studied. Here, using nicotinamide as a sirtuin inhibitor, we explored how the accumulation of the H3K56 acetylation, the most prominent histone acetylation in C. albicans, might affect its interaction with the host. Our experiments demonstrate that H3K56 acetylation profoundly affects the production and/or secretion of soluble factors compromising actin remodelling and cytokine production. ChIP- and RNA-seq analyses highlighted a direct impact of H3K56 acetylation on genes related to phenotypic switching, biofilm formation and cell aggregation. Direct and indirect regulation also involves genes related to cell wall protein biosynthesis, β-glucan and mannan exposure, and hydrolytic secreted enzymes, supporting the hypothesis that the fluctuations of H3K56 acetylation in C. albicans might impair the macrophage response to the yeast and thus promote the host-immune escaping.

Mesenchymal stromal cells ameliorate mitochondrial dysfunction in α cells and hyperglucagonemia in type 2 diabetes via SIRT1/FoxO3a signaling.

Dysregulation of α cells results in hyperglycemia and hyperglucagonemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-based therapy increases oxygen consumption of islets and enhances insulin secretion. However, the underlying mechanism for the protective role of MSCs in α-cell mitochondrial dysfunction remains unclear. Here, human umbilical cord MSCs (hucMSCs) were used to treat 2 kinds of T2DM mice and αTC1-6 cells to explore the role of hucMSCs in improving α-cell mitochondrial dysfunction and hyperglucagonemia. Plasma and supernatant glucagon were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Mitochondrial function of α cells was assessed by the Seahorse Analyzer. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), Forkhead box O3a (FoxO3a), glucose transporter type1 (GLUT1), and glucokinase (GCK) were assessed by Western blotting analysis. In vivo, hucMSC infusion improved glucose and insulin tolerance, as well as hyperglycemia and hyperglucagonemia in T2DM mice. Meanwhile, hucMSC intervention rescued the islet structure and decreased α- to β-cell ratio. Glucagon secretion from αTC1-6 cells was consistently inhibited by hucMSCs in vitro. Meanwhile, hucMSC treatment activated intracellular SIRT1/FoxO3a signaling, promoted glucose uptake and activation, alleviated mitochondrial dysfunction, and enhanced ATP production. However, transfection of SIRT1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) or the application of SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527 weakened the therapeutic effects of hucMSCs on mitochondrial function and glucagon secretion. Our observations indicate that hucMSCs mitigate mitochondrial dysfunction and glucagon hypersecretion of α cells in T2DM via SIRT1/FoxO3a signaling, which provides novel evidence demonstrating the potential for hucMSCs in treating T2DM.

Sirtuin E deacetylase is required for full virulence of Aspergillus fumigatus

Aspergillus fumigatus represents a public health problem due to the high mortality rate in immunosuppressed patients and the emergence of antifungal-resistant isolates. Protein acetylation is a crucial post-translational modification that controls gene expression and biological processes. The strategic manipulation of enzymes involved in protein acetylation has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for addressing fungal infections. Sirtuins, NAD+-dependent lysine deacetylases, regulate protein acetylation and gene expression in eukaryotes. However, their role in the human pathogenic fungus A. fumigatus remains unclear. This study constructs six single knockout strains of A. fumigatus and a strain lacking all predicted sirtuins (SIRTKO). The mutant strains are viable under laboratory conditions, indicating that sirtuins are not essential genes. Phenotypic assays suggest sirtuins’ involvement in cell wall integrity, secondary metabolite production, thermotolerance, and virulence. Deletion of sirE attenuates virulence in murine and Galleria mellonella infection models. The absence of SirE alters the acetylation status of proteins, including histones and non-histones, and triggers significant changes in the expression of genes associated with secondary metabolism, cell wall biosynthesis, and virulence factors. These findings encourage testing sirtuin inhibitors as potential therapeutic strategies to combat A. fumigatus infections or in combination therapy with available antifungals.

Piceatannol enhances hyaluronic acid synthesis through SIRT1-Mediated HAS2 upregulation in human dermal fibroblasts

Dermal fibroblasts play a crucial role in skin structure and function by producing hyaluronic acid. Piceatannol (PIC), a polyphenol abundant in passion fruit seeds, has been reported to activate sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). Clinical trials have demonstrated that PIC intake improves skin moisture and maintains skin elasticity, yet the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PIC on hyaluronic acid biosynthesis and the involvement of SIRT1 in this process. Human dermal fibroblast Hs68 cells were stimulated with PIC, and the expression levels of HAS2 and HYAL2, key enzymes in hyaluronic acid biosynthesis, as well as SIRT1 expression, were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR. Additionally, the role of SIRT1 in the hyaluronic acid biosynthesis pathway during PIC stimulation was examined using a SIRT1 inhibitor. The results demonstrated that PIC increased HAS2 expression while decreasing HYAL2 expression in human dermal fibroblasts. Furthermore, PIC enhanced SIRT1 expression, and pre-treatment with a SIRT1 inhibitor mitigated PIC-induced upregulation of HAS2, suggesting that PIC promotes hyaluronic acid synthesis by inducing SIRT1. These findings suggest that PIC could serve as a beneficial food ingredient, enhancing skin structure and function by promoting hyaluronic acid biosynthesis via SIRT1 induction.

Sirt1 in focus: unveiling molecular insights and therapeutic prospects in calcific aortic stenosis with sglt2i inhibitors

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Fondazione Gigi & Pupa Ferrari ONLUS Background Calcific aortic stenosis (AS) affects 3% of older adults and lacks medical treatment. The well-known deacetylase Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) could be involved in many pathways linked to AS progression. Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), a class of antihyperglycemic agents, have been shown to reduce cardiovascular events and hospitalization for heart failure (possibly via SIRT1), but their possible benefits in AS are not yet known. Purpose Our study aims to uncover if SIRT1 plays a key role in AS progression and if SGLT2i can potentially slow the valve fibro-calcification processes, potentially via SIRT1 modulation. Methods RNA sequencing of control (n=27) and AS (n=39) aortic valves was performed. SIRT1 knockdown (SIRT1-) and overexpressing (SIRT1+) valve interstitial cells (VIC) were generated by CRISPR/Cas9. A calcification assay with or without dapagliflozin (dapa 1uM as SGLT2i) was employed to evaluate valve endothelial cells (VEC) and VIC crass-talk on calcification potential. Patient data were collected from the Lombardy regional healthcare utilization database and diabetic patients who were taking sulphonylureas (sul; not affecting SIRT1) and SGLT2i (acting on SIRT1) were selected. Patients were matched 1:1 by age, sex, and multisource comorbidity score. Kaplan-Maier analysis was used to generate time-to-event curves for aortic valve replacement (AVR) cumulative incidence at 2 years and Cox regression analysis was used to account for confounding effects. Results Whole tissue RNA-seq showed that SIRT1 could be a master regulator of multiple pathways linked to AS. Functional analysis and validations on mutant VIC revealed that inflammation, extracellular-matrix remodeling, and calcification mechanisms are directly regulated by SIRT1. Calcium assays unveiled an increment of calcification in SIRT1- VICs (+50.8%, p<0.01), while SIRT1+ VICs deposited less calcium (-23.6%; p<0.01) compared to wild-type ones. VIC exposed to dapa-treated VEC medium showed reduced calcification (-35.2%, p<0.01). In the dapa-treated VEC medium, we found an increase in NO levels (+19.9%, p<0.01) and VIC treated with an NO donor (detanonate 50uM) showed reduced calcification (-23.2%, p<0.05), while VIC treated with a SIRT1 inhibitor (EX527 25uM) showed an increased calcification (+68.1%, p<0.01). To corroborate these findings, we retrospectively enrolled 233,546 diabetic patients, and after matching, we obtained two groups (sul and SGLT2i) with 37,081 patients each. Adjusted Cox regression analysis revealed that patients taking SGLT2i had a lower AVR incidence than patients taking sulp with a hazard ratio of 0.65 (95%CI 0.47-0.89) resulting in a 35% risk reduction. Conclusion Our data highlights SIRT1 as a key regulator of fibro-calcific processes involved in AS and SGLT2i exhibit potential in slowing AS progression, via SIRT1 modulation. This study unveils promising molecular insights and suggests SGLT2i as a potential therapeutic avenue for AS.

GCTRP3 inhibits oophorectomy‑induced osteoporosis by activating the AMPK/SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway in mice.

C1q/tumor necrosis factor‑related protein 3 (CTRP3) expression is markedly reduced in the serum of patients with osteoporosis. The present study aimed to investigate whether CTRP3 reduces bone loss in oophorectomy (OVX)‑induced mice via the AMP‑activated protein kinase (AMPK)/sirtuin 1 (SIRT1)/nuclear factor E2‑related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway. Female C57BL/6J mice and MC3T3‑E1 cells were used to construct in vivo and in vitro models of osteoporosis, respectively. The left femurs of mice were examined using micro‑computed tomography scans and bone‑related quantitative morphological evaluation was performed. Pathological changes and the number of osteoclasts in the left femurs of mice were detected using hematoxylin and eosin, and tartrate‑resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. Runt‑related transcription factor‑2 (RUNX2) expression in the left femurs was detected using immunofluorescence analysis, and the serum levels of bone resorption markers (C‑telopeptide of type I collagen and TRAP) and bone formation markers [osteocalcin (OCN) and procollagen type 1 N‑terminal propeptide] were detected. In addition, osteoblast differentiation and calcium deposits were examined in MC3T3‑E1 cells using alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Alizarin red staining, respectively. Moreover, RUNX2, ALP and OCN expression levels were detected using reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR, and the expression levels of proteins associated with the AMPK/SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway were detected using western blot analysis. The results revealed that globular CTRP3 (gCTRP3) alleviated bone loss and promoted bone formation in OVX‑induced mice. gCTRP3 also facilitated the osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3‑E1 cells through the AMPK/SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway. The addition of an AMPK inhibitor (Compound C), SIRT1 inhibitor (EX527) or Nrf2 inhibitor (ML385) reduced the osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3‑E1 cells via inhibition of gCTRP3. In conclusion, gCTRP3 inhibits OVX‑induced osteoporosis by activating the AMPK/SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Hydrogen-rich water alleviates constipation by attenuating oxidative stress through the sirtuin1/nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 signaling pathway.

Constipation, a highly prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder, induces a significant burden on the quality of patients' life and is associated with substantial healthcare expenditures. Therefore, identifying efficient therapeutic modalities for constipation is of paramount importance. Oxidative stress is a pivotal contributor to colonic dysmotility and is the underlying pathology responsible for constipation symptoms. Consequently, we postulate that hydrogen therapy, an emerging and promising intervention, can serve as a safe and efficacious treatment for constipation. To determine whether hydrogen-rich water (HRW) alleviates constipation and its potential mechanism. Constipation models were established by orally loperamide to Sprague-Dawley rats. Rats freely consumed HRW, and were recorded their 24 h total stool weight, fecal water content, and charcoal propulsion rate. Fecal samples were subjected to 16S rDNA gene sequencing. Serum non-targeted metabolomic analysis, malondialdehyde, and superoxide dismutase levels were determined. Colonic tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Alcian blue-periodic acid-Schiff, reactive oxygen species (ROS) immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry for cell growth factor receptor kit (c-kit), PGP 9.5, sirtuin1 (SIRT1), nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Quantitative real-time PCR and western blot analysis were conducted to determine the expression level of SIRT1, Nrf2 and HO-1. A rescue experiment was conducted by intraperitoneally injecting the SIRT1 inhibitor, EX527, into constipated rats. NCM460 cells were induced with H2O2 and treated with the metabolites to evaluate ROS and SIRT1 expression. HRW alleviated constipation symptoms by improving the total amount of stool over 24 h, fecal water content, charcoal propulsion rate, thickness of the intestinal mucus layer, c-kit expression, and the number of intestinal neurons. HRW modulated intestinal microbiota imbalance and abnormalities in serum metabolism. HRW could also reduce intestinal oxidative stress through the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. This regulatory effect on oxidative stress was confirmed via an intraperitoneal injection of a SIRT1 inhibitor to constipated rats. The serum metabolites, β-leucine (β-Leu) and traumatic acid, were also found to attenuate H2O2-induced oxidative stress in NCM460 cells by up-regulating SIRT1. HRW attenuates constipation-associated intestinal oxidative stress via SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, modulating gut microbiota and serum metabolites. β-Leu and traumatic acid are potential metabolites that upregulate SIRT1 expression and reduce oxidative stress.

SIRT1 regulates hepatic vldlr levels

BackgroundEndoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated increases in the hepatic levels of the very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) receptor (VLDLR) promote hepatic steatosis by increasing the delivery of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins to the liver. Here, we examined whether the NAD(+)-dependent deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) regulates hepatic lipid accumulation by modulating VLDLR levels and the subsequent uptake of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins.MethodsRats fed with fructose in drinking water, Sirt1−/− mice, mice treated with the ER stressor tunicamycin with or without a SIRT1 activator, and human Huh-7 hepatoma cells transfected with siRNA or exposed to tunicamycin or different inhibitors were used.ResultsHepatic SIRT1 protein levels were reduced, while those of VLDLR were upregulated in the rat model of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) induced by fructose-drinking water. Moreover, Sirt1−/− mice displayed increased hepatic VLDLR levels that were not associated with ER stress, but were accompanied by an increased expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α)-target genes. The pharmacological inhibition or gene knockdown of SIRT1 upregulated VLDLR protein levels in the human Huh-7 hepatoma cell line, with this increase abolished by the pharmacological inhibition of HIF-1α. Finally, SIRT1 activation prevented the increase in hepatic VLDLR protein levels in mice treated with the ER stressor tunicamycin.ConclusionsOverall, these findings suggest that SIRT1 attenuates fatty liver development by modulating hepatic VLDLR levels.

Role of histone deacetylases and sirtuins in the ischaemic stroke: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies

BackgroundStroke is a major cause of global mortality and disability. Currently, the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke through reperfusion has posed several challenges, raising the need for complementary options to...

Identification of Selisistat Derivatives as SIRT1-3 Inhibitors by in Silico Virtual Screening

Sirtuins family are a Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) dependent histone deacetylase enzyme. Sirtuins have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases including cancer, neurological disorders and metabolic syndromes, hence sirtuins appointed as a promising therapeutic target for diseases, by regulating of its activity by small molecules modulators. The indole containing selisistat (EX-527) and its derivatives set as the most potent and selective SIRT1 inhibitors. Selisistat showed an effective sirtuin inhibition on various cancer cell line, and has reached the clinical trials for endometriosis and Huntington’s disease. In this study a set of selisistat derivatives were designed and virtually studied by means of molecular docking, ADMET, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Two molecules were showed promising virtual binding affinity on the SIRT1-3 proteins. Compound 1 exhibits stronger in silico SIRT1 and SIRT2 affinities than EX-527, whereas compound 8 prefers SIRT3 binding. The ADMET analysis of the virtually active molecules demonstrated an acceptable drug-like profile and desirable pharmacokinetics properties. The MD simulation analysis revealed that compound 1 had significantly better alignment with SIRT1 and SIRT2 proteins than EX-527 according to Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD) and Root Mean Square Fluctuation (RMSF) data, while compound 8 had a perfect alignment and fitting with SIRT3 protein than EX-527.

SIRT1 restores mitochondrial structure and function in rats by activating SIRT3 after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury

Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to cerebral ischemia–reperfusion (CI/R) injury, which can be ameliorated by Sirtuin-3 (SIRT3). Under stress conditions, the SIRT3-promoted mitochondrial functional recovery depends on both its activity and expression. However, the approach to enhance SIRT3 activity after CI/R injury remains unelucidated. In this study, Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were intracranially injected with either adeno-associated viral Sirtuin-1 (AAV-SIRT1) or AAV-sh_SIRT1 before undergoing transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). Primary cortical neurons were cultured and transfected with lentiviral SIRT1 (LV-SIRT1) and LV-sh_SIRT1 respectively before oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R). Afterwards, rats and neurons were respectively treated with a selective SIRT3 inhibitor, 3-(1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl) pyridine (3-TYP). The expression, function, and related mechanism of SIRT1 were investigated by Western Blot, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining, etc. After CI/R injury, SIRT1 expression decreased in vivo and in vitro. The simulation and immune-analyses reported strong interaction between SIRT1 and SIRT3 in the cerebral mitochondria before and after CI/R. SIRT1 overexpression enhanced SIRT3 activity by increasing the deacetylation of SIRT3, which ameliorated CI/R-induced cerebral infarction, neuronal apoptosis, oxidative stress, neurological and motor dysfunction, and mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction, promoted mitochondrial biogenesis, and retained mitochondrial integrity and mitochondrial morphology. Meanwhile, SIRT1 overexpression alleviated OGD/R-induced neuronal death and mitochondrial bioenergetic deficits. These effects were reversed by AAV-sh_SIRT1 and the neuroprotective effects of SIRT1 were partially offset by 3-TYP. These results suggest that SIRT1 restores the structure and function of mitochondria by activating SIRT3, offering neuroprotection against CI/R injury, which signifies a potential approach for the clinical management of cerebral ischemia.Graphical 1. SIRT1 is downregulated after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.2. SIRT1 can increase the deacetylation of SIRT3 and enhance the activity of SIRT3 after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.3. SIRT1 enhances the mitochondrial structure repair and functional recovery by activating SIRT3 after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats, thereby promoting neurological function.

Electroacupuncture Ameliorates Cerebral Ischemia-reperfusion Injury by Inhibiting Pyroptosis through the Sirtuin-1 Pathway

Abstract Objective: NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3)-mediated pyroptosis is pivotal in the pathological development of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI). Although previous research has shown that electroacupuncture (EA) can alleviate CIRI through sirtuin-1 (SIRT1), the mechanism has not been well elucidated. Our study aimed to clarify whether the neuroprotective functions of EA are related to the reduction in NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis through the SIRT1 pathway. Materials and Methods: Rats received daily pretreatment with EA for 5 consecutive days before undergoing middle cerebral artery occlusion surgery. The Longa score was used to assess neurologic function. Infarct volume and morphological alterations were analyzed using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride and hematoxylin and eosin staining. In addition, neuronal pyroptosis was identified by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labeling/caspase-1 and neuronal nuclear antigen/caspase-1 immunofluorescence double staining. Levels of expression of pyroptosis markers were assessed by Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: EA improved deficits in neurologic function and minimized cerebral infarct volume. Mechanistically, a number of neuronal pyroptotic cells and protein levels of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD, and gasdermin D in the cerebral cortex were markedly reduced by EA treatment, and conversely, SIRT1 levels were increased. Notably, the specific SIRT1 inhibitor, EX527, reversed the effects of EA. Conclusions: EA potentially exerts a neuroprotective effect against CIRI through the SIRT1 pathway in NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis.

Recent Advances in the Discovery of SIRT1/2 Inhibitors via Computational Methods: A Perspective.

Sirtuins (SIRTs) are classified as class III histone deacetylases (HDACs), a family of enzymes that catalyze the removal of acetyl groups from the ε-N-acetyl lysine residues of histone proteins, thus counteracting the activity performed by histone acetyltransferares (HATs). Based on their involvement in different biological pathways, ranging from transcription to metabolism and genome stability, SIRT dysregulation was investigated in many diseases, such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, and cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. The elucidation of a consistent number of SIRT-ligand complexes helped to steer the identification of novel and more selective modulators. Due to the high diversity and quantity of the structural data thus far available, we reviewed some of the different ligands and structure-based methods that have recently been used to identify new promising SIRT1/2 modulators. The present review is structured into two sections: the first includes a comprehensive perspective of the successful computational approaches related to the discovery of SIRT1/2 inhibitors (SIRTIs); the second section deals with the most interesting SIRTIs that have recently appeared in the literature (from 2017). The data reported here are collected from different databases (SciFinder, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and PubMed) using "SIRT", "sirtuin", and "sirtuin inhibitors" as keywords.

A molecular and computational study of galbanic acid as a regulator of Sirtuin1 pathway in inhibiting lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells

Introduction Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. We investigated the mechanistic role of galbanic acid (Gal) as a regulator of SIRT1 in silico and in vitro. Methods HepG2 cells were treated with Gal in the presence or absence of EX-527, a SIRT1-specific inhibitor, for 24 h. Sirtuin1 gene and protein expression were measured by RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. It has been docked to the allosteric reign of SIRT1 (PDB ID: 4ZZJ) to study the effect of Gal on SIRT1, and then the protein and complex molecular dynamic (MD) simulations had been studied in 100 ns. Results The semi-quantitative results of Oil red (p < .03) and TG level (p < .009) showed a significant reduction in lipid accumulation by treatment with Gal. Also, a significant increase was observed in the gene and protein expression of SIRT1 (p < .05). MD studies have shown that the average root mean square deviation (RMSD) was about 0.51 Å for protein structure and 0.66 Å for the complex. The average of radius of gyration (Rg) is 2.33 and 2.32 Å for protein and complex, respectively, and the pattern of root mean square fluctuation (RMSF) was almost similar. Conclusion Computational studies show that Gal can be a great candidate to use as a SIRT1 ligand because it does not interfere with the structure of the protein, and other experimental studies showed that Gal treatment with SIRT1 inhibitor increases fat accumulation in HepG2 cells.

Function and expression of N-acetyltransferases 1 and 2 are altered in lymphocytes in type 2 diabetes and obesity

The cytosolic enzymes N-Acetyl Transferases 1 and 2 (NATs) transfer an acetyl group from acetyl-CoA to a xenobiotic substrate. NATs are regulated at the genetic and epigenetic levels by deacetylase enzymes such as sirtuins. The enzymatic expression of NAT1, NAT2, and SIRT1 was evaluated by flow cytometry, as well as the enzymatic activity of NATs by cell culture and HPLC analysis. Six SNPs were determined through genotyping. T2D patients (n = 29) and healthy subjects (n = 25) with a median age of 57 and 50, respectively, were recruited. An increased enzyme expression and a diminished NAT2 enzymatic activity were found in cells of T2D patients compared to the control group, while NAT1 was negatively correlated with body fat percentage and BMI. In contrast, Sirtuin inhibition increased NAT2 activity, while Sirtuin agonism decreased its activity in both groups. The analysis of NAT2 SNPs showed a higher frequency of rapid acetylation haplotypes in T2D patients compared to the control group, possibly associated as a risk factor for diabetes. The enzymatic expression of CD3+NAT2+ cells was higher in the rapid acetylators group compared to the slow acetylators group. The levels and activity of NAT1 were associated with total cholesterol and triglycerides. Meanwhile, CD3+NAT2+ cells and NAT2 activity levels were associated with HbA1c and glucose levels. The results indicate that NAT2 could be involved in metabolic processes related to the development of T2D, due to its association with glucose levels, HbA1c, and the altered SIRT-NAT axis. NAT1 may be involved with dyslipidaemias in people who are overweight or obese.

Nephroprotective effect of Ginsenoside Rg1 in lipopolysaccharide-induced sepsis in mice through the SIRT1/NF-κB signaling.

During sepsis, the kidney is one of the most vulnerable organs. Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (S-AKI) is hallmarked by renal inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative injury. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) is a natural product that possesses abundant pharmacological actions and protects against many sepsis-related diseases. Nevertheless, its role and related mechanism in S-AKI remain to be determined. S-AKI was induced using lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 10 mg/kg) via a single intraperitoneal injection. Rg1 (200 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally administered for 3 consecutive days before LPS treatment. For histopathological examination, murine kidney tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Tubular injury score was calculated to evaluate kidney injury. Serum creatinine and BUN levels were measured for assessing renal dysfunction. The levels and activities of oxidative stress markers (MDA, 4-HNE, PC, GSH, SOD, and CAT) in renal tissue were measured by corresponding kits. Renal cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining. The protein levels of apoptosis-related markers (Bcl-2, Bax, and Cleaved caspase-3), proinflammatory factors, SIRT1, IκBα, p-NF-κB p65, and NF-κB p65 in kidneys were determined using western blotting. Immunofluorescence staining was employed to assess p-NF-κB p65 expression in renal tissues. LPS-induced injury of kidneys and renal dysfunction in mice were ameliorated by Rg1. Rg1 also impeded LPS-evoked renal cell apoptosis in kidneys. Moreover, Rg1 attenuated LPS-triggered inflammation and oxidative stress in kidneys by inhibiting proinflammatory cytokine release, enhancing antioxidant levels and activities, and reducing lipid peroxidation. However, all these protective effects of Rg1 in LPS-induced AKI mice were reversed by EX527, an inhibitor of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). Mechanistically, Rg1 upregulated SIRT1 protein expression, increased SIRT1 activity, and inactivated NF-κB signaling in the kidney of LPS-induced AKI mice, which was also reversed by EX527. Rg1 ameliorates LPS-induced kidney injury and suppresses renal inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in mice via regulating the SIRT1/NF-κB signaling.

An allosteric inhibitor of sirtuin 2 blocks hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA establishment and its transcriptional activity

296 million people worldwide are predisposed to developing severe end-stage liver diseases due to chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. HBV forms covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) molecules that persist as episomal DNA in the nucleus of infected hepatocytes and drive viral replication. Occasionally, the HBV genome becomes integrated into host chromosomal DNA, a process that is believed to significantly contribute to circulating HBsAg levels and HCC development. Neither cccDNA accumulation nor expression from integrated HBV DNA are directly targeted by current antiviral treatments. In this study, we investigated the antiviral properties of a newly described allosteric modulator, FLS-359, that targets sirtuin 2 (SIRT2), an NAD+-dependent deacylase. Our results demonstrate that SIRT2 modulation by FLS-359 and by other tool compounds inhibits cccDNA synthesis following de novo infection of primary human hepatocytes and HepG2 (C3A)-NTCP cells, and FLS-359 substantially reduces cccDNA recycling in HepAD38 cells. While pre-existing cccDNA is not eradicated by short-term treatment with FLS-359, its transcriptional activity is substantially impaired, likely through inhibition of viral promoter activities. Consistent with the inhibition of viral transcription, HBsAg production by HepG2.2.15 cells, which contain integrated HBV genomes, is also suppressed by FLS-359. Our study provides further insights on SIRT2 regulation of HBV infection and supports the development of potent SIRT2 inhibitors as HBV antivirals.