What are sirtuins and how do they impact the aging process?

Proteins under study: From studies in yeast, sirtuins (sir2 proteins) are believed to have some effects on aging, on cell death, on stress resistance (such as in situations of food scarcity), etc... Researchers are trying to find out if there are anti-aging effects in mammals. Some believe resveratrol activates a sirtuin and possibly extends lifespan, but so far research with mammals has not shown any such benefit.

Anti-aging genes: Sirtuin genes function as anti-aging genes in yeast, Caenorhabditis elegans, and Drosophila (flies). Resveratrol, from red wine, grapes and blueberries, is an activator of components of sirtuin genes, & has been shown to stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis and deliver health benefits in treated mice. It is thought to have longevity effects in humans, but no definitive research has been done.