Genomic instability and epigenetic alterations are distinct hallmarks shared by
cancer and aging.
Sirtuins (
SIRTs) are class III
histone deacetylases that regulate gene expression in response to cellular metabolic status.
SIRTs can modulate
chromatin function through direct deacetylation of
histones and by promoting altered methylation of
histones and
DNA, leading to repression of transcription. They can also interact and deacetylate a broad range of
transcription factors and coregulators, thereby regulating target gene expression both positively and negatively.
SIRT inhibition may be beneficial in decreasing the risk of some
cancers, while
SIRT activation can exert positive antiaging effects and help prevent age-related disease and
cancers. Thus,
SIRT modulation may positively affect the treatment of
cancer and age-related disorders. In this study, we review emerging data on the effects of
SIRTs as important regulators of
genomic stability and explain the biological roles of
SIRTs in
cancer and aging.