Cleaning, Chasing And Calming: Promising Paradigms Of Senotherapy In Aging-Related Diseases
As we age, some of our cells can enter a state called “senescence,” where they stop dividing but remain active, accumulating in tissues and releasing harmful substances. These “senescent cells” contribute to inflammation and various age-related diseases. Researchers are exploring new ways to tackle this problem, often referred to as senotherapy. One approach, “cleaning,” involves using special compounds called senolytics that selectively eliminate these problematic senescent cells, much like a targeted clean-up crew. Another strategy, “chasing,” focuses on boosting our body’s own immune system, particularly cells like Natural Killer (NK) cells, to recognize and remove senescent cells naturally. Finally, “calming” aims to quiet down the harmful signals released by senescent cells, known as the “senescence-associated secretory phenotype” or SASP. These signals can create a toxic environment, so “calming” agents, or senomorphics, work to reduce their impact, thereby lessening inflammation and improving tissue function. These combined strategies offer exciting potential for promoting healthier aging and preventing age-related conditions.
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