Aging: Change in SIRT1 and Enzymatic Profile Promotes a Decrease in the Antioxidant Capacity of Resveratrol in Human Leukocytes In Vitro

Abstract

Background: One of the most studied theories about aging comes from the accumulation of free radical generation, leading to oxidative stress. Resveratrol (RSV) is a polyphenolic compound that has been shown to act as an antioxidant in medical practice.

Objective: To verify the antioxidant action of resveratrol (and its correlation with aging) in leukocytes from donors of different ages, mainly through the analysis of the three main enzymes of the antioxidant complex and the analysis of the SIRT1 signaling pathway.

Methods: Luminol-dependent chemiluminescence assay was used to evaluate ROS and SIRT1. Antioxidant enzymes were evaluated by commercial kits. *p<0.05.

Results: In all age groups, there was a reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells stimulated with RSV. There was a positive correlation between its antioxidant effect and donor age. In younger individuals (20-39 years old), there was an increase in catalase activity in cells exposed to RSV. In the older groups (40-59 years old and 60-80 years old), RSV was able to increase the activity of the enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Through the analysis of SIRT1 it was possible to observe a silencing of the pathway in leukocytes treated with RSV during aging.

Conclusion: RSV showed antioxidant activity in all age groups, although more pronounced in younger individuals. One of the mechanisms of action of the RSV is due to the increase in the activity of antioxidant enzymes, which varies according to the individual's age, especially through the modulation of important antioxidant pathways.

Keywords: Aging; SIRT1; catalase; glutathione peroxidase; oxidative stress; resveratrol; superoxide dismutase.