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Mechanistic insights into stem cell aging: Pathways and processes
Ayesha Fauzi1, Chloe Zi En Wong2, Phoebe Yon Ern Tee3
1School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Selangor, Malaysia; Centre for Active Living (CAL), Taylor's University, Selangor, Malaysia.
Mechanisms of Ageing and Development
|February 2, 2026
Summary
Aging impairs stem cell function through cellular stress, epigenetic changes, and metabolic issues. Understanding these mechanisms is key to preserving tissue regeneration and health in aging populations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Stem Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Aging progressively impairs stem cell function, affecting tissue homeostasis and increasing age-related diseases.
- Stem cell aging is a critical factor in reduced regenerative capacity and overall health decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current evidence on the molecular and cellular mechanisms driving stem cell aging.
- To provide a framework for identifying targets to preserve stem cell function in aging tissues.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature on stem cell aging.
- Integration of evidence on cellular stress, epigenetics, telomere dynamics, metabolism, and signaling pathways.
Main Results:
- Accumulation of cellular stress (oxidative, genotoxic, ER) disrupts genomic stability and proteostasis.
- Epigenetic alterations destabilize transcriptional programs essential for stem cell identity and function.
- Telomere shortening, metabolic dysregulation (mTOR, AMPK), and altered signaling pathways contribute to stem cell dysfunction and senescence.
Conclusions:
- Multiple interconnected molecular and cellular mechanisms drive stem cell aging.
- These aging processes impair stem cell maintenance, differentiation, and regenerative output.
- Identifying regulatory targets is crucial for interventions aimed at preserving stem cell function and tissue health during aging.
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