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Royal Society of Chemistry, MedChemComm, 12(5), p. 1804-1820

DOI: 10.1039/c4md00268g

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Can we use the epigenetic bioactivity of caloric restriction and phytochemicals to promote healthy ageing?

This paper is available in a repository.
This paper is available in a repository.

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Abstract

Epigenetic marks are enzymatic tags deposited on the genome which do not change the DNA sequence but changes gene expression. They are reversible and epigenetic dietary interventions are thus suggested for the prevention of ageing, ageing related diseases and for breaking the vicious circle of the trans-generational epigenetic inheritance of the metabolic disorders. It is a pressing issue because more and more children are exposed to parent’s obesity and are at risk to develop type 2 diabetes. Why is it relevant to propose epigenetic “Nutricures” to prevent diseases linked with ageing? To answer this question we produce this review whose scope is to underline the importance of the nutrition contribution for a correct functioning of Epigenetic. Almost all chromatin-modifying enzymes utilize co-factors that are crucial metabolites for core metabolism pathways. Because the cellular concentrations of these metabolites fluctuate as a function of the metabolic status of the cell, the activity of most epigenetic enzymes depends from the cell metabolism and thus from nutrition. Through one selected representative example: sirtuines and its metabolic co-factor: Nicotinamide, we illustrate the nutrition and epigenetic connections. Then we describe the epigenetic activities of some polyphenols. Finally we underline that with the globalization there is a continuing trend changing the variety of food items that we consume. Each may have bioactive effects which may combine with additional epigenetic effects of pollutants like pesticides. We plead likewise that because they are bioactive “Nutricures” and food supplements should undergo better evaluation before marketing.