Sechium edule var. nigrum spinosum (chayote) Increases the Expression of mRNA of Genes Encoding Sirtuins in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Consumption of Sechium edule var. nigrum spinosum has been shown to have hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects remain unknown, with the sirtuin-mediated signaling cascade among the possible mechanisms, as sirtuins regulate glucose metabolism and respond to various stressors. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Sechium edule on the gene expression of the sirtuin family (SIRT1-SIRT6) in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A quasi-experimental study was conducted with a convenience sample of 26 older adults diagnosed with T2DM: (i) placebo group (PG; n=12); (ii) experimental group (EG; n=14). Clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric measurements were performed, and total oxidant/antioxidant capacity (TOS/TAS) and mRNA expression of genes encoding sirtuins were determined. All parameters were measured at baseline, three months, and six months after the intervention. In the EG, gene expression levels of SIRT1, SIRT3, SIRT5, and SIRT6 increased by 52%, 69%, 62%, and 69%, respectively, six months after treatment. A 50% decrease in TOS and a 44% increase in TAS were also observed. Our findings suggest that the bioactive components of Sechium edule enhance sirtuin expression and exhibit antioxidant effects in older adults with T2DM.