Cells that have stopped dividing but remain metabolically active, secreting inflammatory factors that contribute to aging.
FULL EXPLANATION
Senescent cells are cells that have permanently stopped dividing in response to DNA damage, telomere shortening, or other stressors. Rather than dying, they persist and secrete inflammatory molecules (the senescence-associated secretory phenotype or SASP).
While senescence initially serves as a tumor suppression mechanism, accumulated senescent cells contribute to chronic inflammation, tissue dysfunction, and many age-related diseases. Senolytics are drugs designed to selectively eliminate senescent cells.
WHY IT MATTERS
Senescent cell accumulation is a key driver of aging and age-related disease. Clearing them has been shown to improve healthspan in animal studies.
HOW TO IMPROVE
Reduce senescent cell burden through fasting, exercise, senolytics (quercetin, fisetin, dasatinib), and avoiding chronic inflammation triggers.
NORMAL RANGES
Senescent cell burden is not routinely measured clinically. Research uses markers like p16, SA-beta-gal staining, and SASP factors.
RELATED TERMS
Cytokines
Signaling proteins released by cells that regulate immunity, inflammation, and cell communication throughout the body.
Telomeres
Protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division, serving as a marker of biological aging.
NAD+
A coenzyme essential for cellular energy production that declines with age, involved in DNA repair and longevity pathways.
Autophagy
A cellular process where damaged components are recycled, playing a key role in cellular health and longevity.
More in Longevity & Aging
View all →Telomeres
Emerging ResearchProtective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division, serving as a marker of biological aging.
mTOR
Emerging ResearchA cellular signaling pathway that regulates growth and metabolism, with implications for aging and disease.
NAD+
Emerging ResearchA coenzyme essential for cellular energy production that declines with age, involved in DNA repair and longevity pathways.