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Senolytics and cell senescence: historical and evolutionary perspectives.
1Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, 3715 McClintock Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
Evolution, Medicine, and Public Health
|May 17, 2024
Summary
Senolytics are drugs targeting senescent cells to combat aging. While promising, their essential roles in regeneration require further study before widespread use.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cell Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cell senescence, a state of irreversible growth arrest, is implicated in aging.
- Senolytics are emerging drugs designed to eliminate senescent cells.
- Over 20 senolytic drug trials are currently underway globally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide historical context for the development of senolytics.
- To discuss the dual role of cell senescence in aging and regeneration.
- To highlight the need for further research on senolytic drug side effects.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on senolytics and cell senescence.
- Historical analysis of mammalian cell senescence research.
- Discussion of potential implications of senolytic interventions.
Main Results:
- Cell senescence, though linked to aging, plays crucial roles in development and regeneration.
- Senolytic drugs may interfere with beneficial regenerative processes.
- The evolutionary history of cell senescence suggests an ancient eukaryotic origin.
Conclusions:
- Senolytics offer a novel approach to anti-aging therapies by targeting senescent cells.
- The essential functions of senescent cells in regeneration necessitate cautious application of senolytics.
- Long-term safety and efficacy studies are crucial before clinical adoption of senolytics.
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