Mitochondria, although best known as the ‘powerhouse’ of the cell, also perform essential functions that significantly impact cellular health including cellular signalling, antioxidant defence, redox status, inflammation, and ageing.

A loss of mitochondrial integrity impacts the ability of cells to respond to different stressors, consequently affecting signalling with the nucleus, regulation of gene transcription and interaction with other organelles. The resulting dysfunction leads to reduced mitochondrial biogenesis and eventually chronic disease.

Several factors regulate mitochondrial biogenesis, downstream of which is Sirtuin (SIRT1); a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) dependant deacetylase that contributes to cellular regulation and longevity. Therefore, therapeutics that activate SIRT1 may be useful in the prevention and/or management of chronic disease and ageing.

Another factor is resveratrol, a well-established dietary antioxidant, naturally formed by a variety of plant species including grapes, berries, and pines. Resveratrol promotes mitochondrial biogenesis via two key mechanisms: increasing production and bioavailability of NO (nitric oxide) and activating SIRT1.

Further, vitamin B3 functions as the primary precursor of NAD+ and NADH and is essential for ATP production. NAD+ also plays a critical role in several other cellular functions due to its association with SIRT genes.

To learn about this vital aspect of preventing chronic disease join Dr Elizabeth Steels as she, through her clinical observations and the use of case studies discusses:

• An overview of the SIRT1 gene and its key function

• Molecular targets and the biological effects of resveratrol

• The most up to date clinical research of resveratrol for specific conditions

• The importance of NAD+ in maintaining SIRT1 activity

• Beneficial co-prescriptions for differing disease states