Sirtuins are a family of proteins that play a crucial role in regulating cellular processes, including aging, metabolism, and stress resistance. They are known for their ability to deacetylate proteins, which means they remove acetyl groups from specific amino acids. This action can influence various biological functions, such as gene expression and DNA repair. These proteins are often linked to the effects of caloric restriction and are thought to contribute to the longevity of organisms. Research has shown that sirtuins may also be involved in the response to oxidative stress and inflammation, making them a significant focus in studies related to aging and disease prevention.