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Updated: Jun 17, 2025

Simultaneous Imaging and Flow-Cytometry-based Detection of Multiple Fluorescent Senescence Markers in Therapy-Induced Senescent Cancer Cells
Published on: July 12, 2022
Therapy-Induced Cellular Senescence: Potentiating Tumor Elimination or Driving Cancer Resistance and Recurrence?
Yue Liu1, Isabelle Lomeli1, Stephen J Kron1
1Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research and Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
Cellular senescence, a state linked to aging and cancer, has a dual role in therapy. Senescent cells (SnCs) can promote or hinder cancer treatment, influencing tumor immunity and treatment response.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Cellular senescence is a key factor in cancer development and aging.
- Therapy-induced senescence (TIS) is a complex response to cancer treatments.
- Senescent cells (SnCs) exhibit a dual role in cancer, potentially promoting resistance or enhancing therapy outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted role of SnCs in cancer therapy.
- To explore the influence of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) on the tumor microenvironment.
- To discuss strategies for leveraging TIS to improve cancer immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cellular senescence in cancer.
- Analysis of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and its mechanisms.
- Exploration of TIS in relation to tumor immunity and treatment response.
Main Results:
- SnCs, via SASP, can mediate both resistance and response to cancer therapies.
- TIS has the potential to enhance anti-tumor immunity and potentiate immune checkpoint blockade.
- Persistent SnCs can negatively impact normal tissues and contribute to recurrence.
Conclusions:
- Senescence presents a "Jekyll and Hyde" nature in cancer treatment, requiring careful consideration.
- Targeting SnCs or modulating SASP offers novel therapeutic strategies.
- Harnessing TIS may improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy and reduce treatment side effects.
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