Sirtuins are class III histone deacetylases, whose enzymatic activity is dependent on NAD + as a cofactor. Sirtuins are reported to modulate numerous activities by controlling gene expression, DNA repair, metabolism, oxidative stress response, mitochondrial function, and biogenesis. Deregulation of their expression and/or action may lead to tissue-specific degenerative events involved in the development of several human pathologies, including cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular disease. The most studied member of this class of enzymes is sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), whose expression is associated with increasing insulin sensitivity. SIRT1 has been implicated in both tumorigenic and anticancer processes, and is reported to regulate essential metabolic pathways, suggesting that its activation might be beneficial against disorders of the metabolism. Via regulation of p53 deacetylation and modulation of autophagy, SIRT1 is implicated in cellular response to caloric restriction and lifespan extension. In recent years, scientific interest focusing on the identification of SIRT1 modulators has led to the discovery of novel small molecules targeting SIRT1 activity. This review will examine compounds of natural origin recently found to upregulate SIRT1 activity, such as polyphenolic products in fruits, vegetables, and plants including resveratrol, fisetin, quercetin, and curcumin. We will also discuss the potential therapeutic effects of these natural compounds in the prevention and treatment of human disorders, with particular emphasis on their metabolic impact.

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The action of anthocyanins contained in the Vitelotte potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in both breast and haematological cancers were investigated. The biomedical activities of anthocyanin extract derived from the Vitelotte cultivar were determined. Molecular genotyping was performed to properly identify this outstanding genotype in comparison to other potato varieties and to promote the utilization of this genetic resource by plant breeders. Furthermore, cellular and molecular characterization of the action of anthocyanin extract in cancer cells revealed that modulation of cell cycle regulators occurs upon treatment. As well as inducing apoptotic players such as TRAIL in cancer systems, anthocyanin extract inhibited Akt-mTOR signalling thereby inducing maturation of acute myeloid leukaemia cells. These results are of interest in view of the impact on food consumption and as functional food components on potential cancer treatment and prevention