Senescence Of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: A Narrative Review Of Mechanisms, Functional Consequences, And Rejuvenation Strategies For Age-Related Disorders
As we age, our bodies undergo many changes, and even our cells show signs of getting older. One crucial type of cell, found in our bone marrow, is called a mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC). These cells are vital because they can develop into different cell types, like bone and fat cells, and they also play a key role in regulating our immune system and blood production.
However, as we get older, these MSCs can enter a state called “senescence.” This means they stop dividing and undergo significant changes, losing their ability to multiply effectively, differentiate into other cells properly, and regulate immune responses. They also start releasing a mix of molecules, known as the “senescence-associated secretory phenotype” (SASP), which can negatively affect neighboring cells and contribute to inflammation.
This cellular aging of MSCs has serious consequences for our health. It can worsen inflammation within the bone marrow, contributing to common age-related conditions like osteoporosis (weak bones) and osteoarthritis (joint degeneration). It can also impair the function of blood-forming stem cells and lead to an increase in fat within the bone marrow.
Scientists are actively investigating the underlying reasons for MSC senescence. Key mechanisms include the shortening of telomeres (protective caps on the ends of our chromosomes), damage to DNA, oxidative stress (an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants), changes in how genes are expressed without altering the DNA sequence itself (epigenetic dysregulation), and interactions with their surrounding environment.
The good news is that researchers are also exploring various strategies to counteract MSC senescence. By understanding these mechanisms, they hope to develop new therapies to rejuvenate these important cells, ultimately improving the management and treatment of age-related diseases.
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