The Yin And Yang Of Cellular Senescence In Ischemia-Induced Myocardial Injury
When a heart attack occurs, blood flow to the heart is blocked, leading to damage. Doctors often restore blood flow, a process called reperfusion, but this can also cause further injury, known as ischemia-reperfusion injury. This injury can lead to long-term problems like heart failure. Recent research sheds light on a key player in this damage: cellular senescence.
Cellular senescence is a state where cells permanently stop dividing, often due to stress or damage. While these cells are no longer active in replication, they can release a cocktail of inflammatory molecules and other substances, collectively known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which can harm surrounding healthy tissue.
This study found that after a heart experiences ischemia-reperfusion injury, both heart muscle cells (cardiomyocytes) and other supporting cells in the heart become senescent. These senescent cells contribute to the ongoing inflammation and the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis), which impairs the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.
Crucially, the researchers discovered that by using a special type of drug, called a senolytic drug, to clear these senescent cells after the injury, they could significantly improve the heart’s recovery. This treatment led to better heart function, increased the growth of new blood vessels in the damaged area, and reduced the size of the scar. Furthermore, analysis showed that the harmful processes associated with scarring and inflammation were reduced when senescent cells were removed.
These findings suggest that targeting and eliminating senescent cells could be a promising new strategy to improve outcomes for patients who have suffered a heart attack and undergone reperfusion.
Source: link to paper