What is Cellular Senescence and Why is it Important?

Cellular Senescence is a condition where a cell ages to the point that it can no longer perform its functions, yet becomes resistant to apoptosis (immune-clearing, senolytic-driven programmed cell death).

This condition, particularly characterized by telomere shortening, renders the cell unable to fulfill its necessary functions. However, the real problem lies beyond that. The main issue is that these senescent cells not only consume resources but also release inflammatory cytokines, known as SASP (Senescence Associated Secretory Phenotype), into the environment, driving other healthy cells into senescence. This situation is akin to a rotten apple spoiling the entire basket and poses a significant danger to the body. Senescent cells, by entering the circulation, can wreak havoc not just in the local organ or region but throughout the entire body.

Recently, the influence of these cells in chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s has been discovered, and significant clinical research on senolytic agents, which clear these cells, is currently underway.