Cellular Senescence: A Double-Edged Sword in Aging
Cellular senescence is a state where cells stop dividing. This can be triggered by DNA damage, telomere shortening, or other forms of cellular stress.
Senescent cells can promote aging and age-related diseases. They release pro-inflammatory molecules that damage surrounding tissues.
However, cellular senescence also has beneficial effects. It can prevent cancer by stopping damaged cells from dividing.
Researchers are studying senolytics, a class of compounds that target and eliminate senescent cells. This approach shows promise in improving healthspan and reducing age-related diseases.
Understanding cellular senescence is crucial for developing effective anti-aging therapies. By targeting senescent cells, scientists hope to promote healthy aging and prevent age-related disorders.
Further research is needed to fully harness the potential of senolytics and other anti-aging strategies. This could lead to new treatments for age-related diseases and improved human healthspan.
