| abstract |
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method and a composition for modifying the activity of a sirtuin deacetylase protein family member; p53 activity; apoptosis; longevity of cells and organisms and sensitivity to stress. The cell is contacted with an agent that binds to SIRT1 in the cell and increases the deacetylase activity of SIRT1, for example, a sirtuin activating compound such as flavone, stilbene, flavanone, isoflavone, catechin, chalcone, tannin or anthocyanidin. A method of protecting cells from apoptosis comprising steps. Alternatively, a method of making the cells more sensitive to cell death, comprising contacting an agent that binds to SIRT1 in the cell and reduces deacetylase activity of SIRT1, for example, a sirtuin-inhibiting compound such as a sphingolipid such as sphingosine. [Selection figure] None |