The evidence from numerous studies proves sirtuin 1 significance in both chronological and premature aging as well as its dual role in cancer development.
The past few decades have witnessed rapidly growing interest in the topic of skin aging. Research advances in the field of molecular mechanisms involved in both intrinsic and extrinsic aging may translate into novel effective therapeutic antiaging interventions. SIRT1 regulates the proliferation and differentiation of the major cell types of the skin. It mediates antiaging effects through the target molecules, participating in the maintenance of genome stability, oxidative stress response, extracellular matrix turnover, and regulation of the cell cycle. The same mechanisms are involved in the skin carcinogenesis, however, SIRT1 may serve as tumor suppressor or oncogene, depending on the gene dosage and downstream pathways. Experimental studies support the conclusion that SIRT1 may prevent UVR-related premature aging and skin cancer development. Modulation of SIRT1 activity may constitute a novel approach to photoprotection, and hold a great potential for improving outcomes in patients with skin cancers. In addition, small interventional studies in humans demonstrated encouraging results of topical SIRT1 activators in reducing premature aging symptoms. Although SIRT1 has been extensively researched, further studies are needed to explore the topic of SIRT1 activity in terms of skin changes, induced by environmental pollutants, which help to exploit the full potential of this longevity protein.
