Are 'Zombie Cells' The Key To Reversing Ageing?

With age, an increasing number of our cellls enter a state called 'senescence'

A senescent cell is a cell that:

-Releases signals that affect its neighbours

-Doesn't self-destruct when it's supposed to

-Can no longer divide

Most cells become senescent after a certain number of divisions

This can also happen when the cell or its DNA is damaged

Having too many senescent cells is a problem because of the signals they release

These signals promote inflammation, cancer, and slow down the healing process

But what if we could destroy senescent cells with drugs, or turn them back into healthy cells?

Drugs that destroy senescent cells are called senolytics

We already have safe senolytics, but it's too early to tell how well they work in humans

There is also evidence to suggest that senescence can be reversed

However, we need to make sure this is safe before trying it in humans

Removal of senescent cells can successfully slow ageing in animals

In one study, mice lived 35% longer when receiving senolytics

But when it comes to human ageing, senescence is only part of the puzzle we need to solve

If you'd like to learn more about senescence and senolytics, check out some of our in-depth articles:

What Is Cellular Senescence? – The Hallmarks Of Ageing Series

Ageing And ‘Zombie Cells’ – What We Know So Far