Targeting Cellular Senescence: Therapeutic Advances In Senolytic And Senomorphic Interventions For Age-Related Pathologies

Targeting senescent cells, which are non-dividing cells that accumulate with age and contribute to various diseases, through interventions like senolytics (which eliminate them) and senomorphics (which modify their harmful secretions), shows promise in combating age-related pathologies and promoting healthier aging.

As we age, our bodies accumulate “senescent cells”—cells that have stopped dividing but remain active, releasing substances that can cause chronic inflammation and damage to surrounding tissues. This accumulation is a major contributor to many age-related conditions, from heart disease and neurodegenerative disorders to metabolic issues and even cancer. Scientists are exploring new ways to tackle this problem, focusing on two main strategies.

One approach involves using compounds called “senolytics.” These are like targeted clean-up crews that selectively identify and eliminate these problematic senescent cells from the body. By removing these cells, senolytics aim to reduce inflammation and improve tissue function, potentially delaying or even preventing the onset of age-related diseases. The other strategy employs “senomorphics,” which don’t kill the senescent cells but instead modify their behavior. These compounds work to neutralize the harmful substances these cells release, thereby mitigating their damaging effects on the body without outright removing them. Both senolytics and senomorphics are showing exciting potential in studies, offering new avenues for promoting healthier aging and extending our “healthspan”—the period of life spent in good health.

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Source: link to paper