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Senolytics and cell senescence: historical and evolutionary perspectives

Caleb E Finch1

  • 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
PubMed

Insights

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.
Keywords:
cell senescenceevolutionsenolytics

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