Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 16, 2025

Preparation and Culture of Myogenic Precursor Cells/Primary Myoblasts from Skeletal Muscle of Adult and Aged Humans
Published on: February 16, 2017
Cellular senescence and other age-related mechanisms in skeletal diseases
Ke Li1,2, Sihan Hu3,4, Hao Chen5,6
1Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, PR China.
Abstract:
Cellular senescence and its senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) represent a pivotal role in the development of skeletal diseases. Targeted elimination or rejuvenation of senescent cells has shown potential as a therapeutic strategy to reverse age-related skeletal senescence and promote bone regeneration. Meanwhile, other age-related mechanisms, involving altered cellular functions, impaired intercellular crosstalk, disturbed tissue microenvironment, and decreased regenerative capacity, synergistically contribute to the pathogenesis. In this review, we outline the cellular senescence and other age-related mechanisms in developing skeletal diseases, including osteoporosis, intervertebral disc degeneration, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bone tumors and ankylosing spondylitis, with the aim of comprehensively understanding their detrimental effects on the aged skeleton and screening the potential targets for anti-aging therapy within the skeletal system.
Insights
Cellular senescence and its secretory phenotype (SASP) drive skeletal diseases. Targeting senescent cells offers a promising therapeutic strategy for bone regeneration and combating age-related bone conditions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Regenerative Medicine
- Skeletal Biology and Disease
Background:
- Cellular senescence and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) are key drivers in skeletal disease development.
- Age-related changes, including cellular dysfunction and impaired tissue repair, exacerbate skeletal pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of cellular senescence and other aging mechanisms in skeletal diseases.
- To identify potential therapeutic targets for anti-aging interventions in the skeletal system.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of cellular senescence and aging in skeletal diseases.
- Analysis of mechanisms contributing to age-related skeletal decline.
Main Results:
- Cellular senescence and SASP significantly contribute to osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and other skeletal disorders.
- Targeting senescent cells shows potential for reversing skeletal aging and promoting bone regeneration.
Conclusions:
- Cellular senescence is a critical factor in age-related skeletal diseases.
- Therapeutic strategies aimed at senescent cells and aging mechanisms hold promise for skeletal health.
Related Concept Videos
The Effect of Aging on Tissues
Bone Disorders
Bone deposition is also affected by the levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that promote osteoblast activity and bone matrix synthesis. When the level of these hormones decreases due to aging, it causes a reduction in bone deposition. As a result, bone resorption by osteoclasts...
Aging
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...
Mitochondria
The Functions of the Skeletal System
What is the Skeletal System?

