Sirtris, a GSK company, is developing small molecule drugs that target the sirtuins, a recently discovered family of seven enzymes associated with the aging process. Modulation of these enzymes offers the promise of drug discovery in multiple therapeutic areas.

Founded in 2004, Sirtris was one of the first pharmaceutical companies focused on the sirtuin platform.  Preclinical research indicates that the sirtuins play important roles in pathways for multiple diseases, including Type 2 Diabetes, various types of cancer and osteoporosis; as well as neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, inflammatory, and mitochondrial diseases.

Sirtris researchers are working to translate this research into a potential new class of pharmaceuticals to treat diseases of aging, offering the ability for people to live longer, healthier lives.

The company, which went public in May 2007 (formerly NASDAQ: SIRT), has a dynamic research and development group and strong external relationships and collaborations with sirtuin thought leaders.  In June 2008, GSK acquired Sirtris, allowing for the acceleration of the science and the rapid development of new therapeutic candidates.

Sirtris’ culture mixes scientific curiosity with a dynamic, fast-paced environment, resembling its biotech roots while harnessing all of GSK’s broad discovery, development, and commercialization capabilities.