The role of SirT1 in muscle mitochondrial turnover.

SirT1 protein has received considerable attention for its potential role in longevity. It has been described as a metabolic protein that can sense and communicate the energy status of a cell to key mechanisms of mitochondrial regulation and energy production. These mechanisms include the biogenesis of mitochondria, the clearance of damaged organelles, and the physiological rhythmicity of gene expression. Elucidation of the pathways involved in SirT1-mediated mitochondrial turnover ultimately allow for the design of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of degenerative processes that are associated with metabolic and mitochondrial health.