Recent update on discovery and development of Hsp90 inhibitors as senolytic agents

Sayan Dutta Gupta1, Cheol Ho Pan1

  • 1Natural Products Informatics Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Gangneung Institute of Natural Products, (25451) 679, Saimdang-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea.

Insights

Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) inhibitors show promise as senolytic agents, potentially offering a less toxic approach to cancer treatment and age-related diseases. Their senolytic effect may improve healthspan and lifespan.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Gerontology

Background:

  • Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is a key molecular chaperone targeted for cancer therapy.
  • Hsp90 inhibitors have faced challenges in cancer treatment due to toxicity and development costs.
  • Emerging research highlights the senolytic potential of Hsp90 inhibitors beyond cancer applications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review Hsp90 inhibitors investigated as senolytic agents.
  • To discuss the future prospects of Hsp90 inhibitors in senolytic therapy.
  • To explore models used for evaluating senolytic effects.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of Hsp90 inhibitors.
  • Analysis of senolytic properties and therapeutic potential.
  • Examination of preclinical models for senolytic evaluation.

Main Results:

  • Hsp90 inhibitors exhibit a promising senolytic effect, clearing senescent cells.
  • This senolytic activity has demonstrated benefits in increasing healthspan and lifespan in mice.
  • Senolytic properties may lead to reduced toxicity compared to traditional Hsp90 inhibitors.

Conclusions:

  • Hsp90 inhibitors represent a novel class of senolytic agents with potential therapeutic applications.
  • Their senolytic effect offers a promising avenue for treating age-related diseases and potentially improving cancer therapy outcomes.
  • Further research into Hsp90 inhibitors as senolytics is warranted, alongside the development of appropriate evaluation models.