In fact, earlier studies in SIRT1-null mice detailed the development of a mild autoimmune condition that resembled systemic lupus erythematosus, characterized by deposition of immune complexes within liver and kidneys, with some mice going on to spontaneously develop a diabetes insipidus-like autoimmune disorder after 2 years of age, altogether suggesting a preventative role of SIRT1 in autoimmunity (35). This evidence concerns the gene SIRT1 and autoimmune disease.