DNA damage-dependent mechanisms of ionizing radiation-induced cellular senescence

Cellular senescence can be broadly categorized into replicative senescence and stress-induced premature senescence. Replicative senescence mainly results from the progressive shortening of telomeres during successive cell divisions, eventually leading to the arrest of cell division and the onset of senescence. In contrast, stress-induced premature senescence is typically triggered by environmental factors, such as ionizing radiation (IR). While the DNA damage induced by IR has been extensively studied, the specific mechanisms by which IR induces cellular senescence via DNA damage remain incompletely understood. This review focuses on IR-induced cellular senescence, particularly in the context of DNA damage. Understanding these mechanisms provides insight into the long-term effects of radiation on cellular senescence and lays the groundwork for future research into the effects of radiation on aging processes.