Targeting pro-senescence mitogen activated protein kinase (Mapk) enzymes with bioactive natural compounds
Mercedes Cano1, Angelica Guerrero-Castilla2, Seyed Mohammad Nabavi3
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, Seville, Spain.
Abstract:
Aging is a multifactorial universal process characterized by a gradual decrease in physiological and biochemical functions. Given that life expectancy is on the rise, a better understanding of molecular mechanisms of the aging process is necessary in order to develop anti-aging interventions. Uncontrolled cellular senescence promotes persistent inflammation and accelerates the aging process by decreasing tissue renewal, repair and regeneration. Senescence of immune cells, immunesenescence, is another hallmark of aging. Targeting pro-senescent enzymes increases survival and therefore the lifespan. Although the upregulation of Mitogen Activated Protein Kinases (MAPK) enzymes in aging is still controversial, increasing evidence shows that dysregulation of those enzymes are associated with biological processes that contribute to aging such as irreversible senescence. In this manuscript components of the MAPK pathway will be summarized, including extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38, as well as natural flavonoids, phenolic and diterpenoids with anti-senescence activity that shows positive effects on longevity and MAPK inhibition. Although more studies using additional aging models are needed, we suggest that these selected natural bioactive compounds that regulate MAPK enzymes and reduce senescent cells can be potentially used to improve longevity and prevent/treat age-related diseases.
Insights
Cellular senescence drives aging and inflammation. Natural compounds targeting Mitogen Activated Protein Kinases (MAPK) pathways may inhibit senescence, potentially extending lifespan and preventing age-related diseases.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Molecular Biology
- Focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying aging and the development of interventions.
Background:
- Aging is a universal process involving decreased physiological functions.
- Cellular senescence and immunesenescence are key aging hallmarks, promoting inflammation and hindering tissue repair.
- Mitogen Activated Protein Kinases (MAPK) pathway dysregulation is linked to aging and senescence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of MAPK pathways in aging.
- To identify natural compounds with anti-senescence properties.
- To explore the potential of these compounds in longevity and age-related disease prevention.
Main Methods:
- Summarized components of the MAPK pathway (ERK1/2, JNK, p38).
- Reviewed natural compounds including flavonoids, phenolics, and diterpenoids with anti-senescence activity.
- Examined the effects of these compounds on MAPK inhibition and senescent cell reduction.
Main Results:
- Dysregulation of MAPK enzymes is associated with aging and irreversible senescence.
- Certain natural compounds demonstrate anti-senescence activity and can inhibit MAPK pathways.
- These compounds show potential for promoting longevity.
Conclusions:
- Natural bioactive compounds that modulate MAPK pathways and reduce senescent cells offer a promising avenue for intervention.
- Further research in diverse aging models is needed to validate these findings.
- These compounds could potentially improve longevity and treat age-related diseases.
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