Intermittent Hypobaric Pressure Induces Selective Senescent Cell Death And Alleviates Age-Related Osteoporosis
Our bodies are constantly renewing themselves, but over time, some cells stop dividing and enter a state called senescence. These “senescent cells” don’t die off as they should; instead, they accumulate and release harmful substances that contribute to aging and age-related diseases like osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and brittle. Scientists have been searching for ways to clear these problematic cells to promote healthier aging.
New research has uncovered a fascinating, non-drug approach: intermittent hypobaric pressure. This refers to brief periods of exposure to lower-than-normal atmospheric pressure, similar to what you might experience at high altitudes. The study revealed that this specific type of pressure can selectively trigger a process called lysosome-dependent cell death (LDCD) in senescent cells. Essentially, it causes these aging cells to self-destruct without harming healthy cells.
The mechanism involves a protein called TMEM59, which acts as a channel in cells. When exposed to the low pressure, TMEM59 becomes active, leading to an influx of calcium into the cell. This chain of events ultimately damages the lysosomes—the cell’s recycling centers—in senescent cells, causing them to undergo LDCD. Since senescent cells have more lysosomes, they are particularly vulnerable to this effect.
In experiments with aged mice, this intermittent low-pressure treatment not only extended their lifespan but also significantly improved their osteoporosis, making their bones stronger. It also reduced the harmful substances released by senescent cells. This discovery suggests that intermittent hypobaric pressure could be a natural “senolytic”—a treatment that selectively eliminates senescent cells—offering a promising new avenue for combating age-related diseases and promoting healthy aging.
Source: link to paper