Macrophage senescence in health and diseases
Longling Wang1,2, Wenxiang Hong1, Hong Zhu1
1Center for Drug Safety Evaluation and Research, Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
Abstract:
Macrophage senescence, manifested by the special form of durable cell cycle arrest and chronic low-grade inflammation like senescence-associated secretory phenotype, has long been considered harmful. Persistent senescence of macrophages may lead to maladaptation, immune dysfunction, and finally the development of age-related diseases, infections, autoimmune diseases, and malignancies. However, it is a ubiquitous, multi-factorial, and dynamic complex phenomenon that also plays roles in remodeled processes, including wound repair and embryogenesis. In this review, we summarize some general molecular changes and several specific biomarkers during macrophage senescence, which may bring new sight to recognize senescent macrophages in different conditions. Also, we take an in-depth look at the functional changes in senescent macrophages, including metabolism, autophagy, polarization, phagocytosis, antigen presentation, and infiltration or recruitment. Furthermore, some degenerations and diseases associated with senescent macrophages as well as the mechanisms or relevant genetic regulations of senescent macrophages are integrated, not only emphasizing the possibility of regulating macrophage senescence to benefit age-associated diseases but also has an implication on the finding of potential targets or drugs clinically.
Insights
Macrophage senescence, a state of cell cycle arrest and inflammation, contributes to aging and disease. Understanding its dual role in harm and repair offers new therapeutic targets for age-related conditions.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Macrophage senescence, characterized by cell cycle arrest and chronic inflammation (senescence-associated secretory phenotype), is implicated in aging and disease.
- While often viewed as detrimental, macrophage senescence also plays crucial roles in physiological processes like wound repair and embryogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review molecular changes and biomarkers of macrophage senescence.
- To explore functional alterations in senescent macrophages, including metabolism, autophagy, and immune functions.
- To discuss diseases linked to macrophage senescence and potential therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on macrophage senescence.
- Analysis of molecular and cellular changes associated with macrophage senescence.
- Integration of data on disease associations and regulatory mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Identified general molecular changes and specific biomarkers for recognizing senescent macrophages.
- Detailed functional shifts in senescent macrophages: altered metabolism, autophagy, polarization, phagocytosis, antigen presentation, and recruitment.
- Highlighted the dual role of macrophage senescence in disease pathogenesis and tissue remodeling.
Conclusions:
- Macrophage senescence is a complex, dynamic process with implications for age-related diseases and tissue repair.
- Understanding macrophage senescence mechanisms can lead to novel therapeutic targets for age-associated conditions.
- Targeting macrophage senescence may offer clinical benefits for various diseases.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Aging
Cellular Clock Theory
The cellular clock theory posits that the human lifespan is closely tied to the finite capacity of cells to divide, a phenomenon governed by telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of...
02:15Replicative Cell Senescence
01:37Mitochondria
01:38Inflammation
01:25Immune Surveillance by NK Cells and Phagocytes
Natural Killer Cells: The Fast Responders
NK cells are large granular lymphocytes found in the blood and lymphatic system. These...
01:17Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells
Normal cells contain receptors that prevent them from being recognized...