As the human body ages, more cells become senescent. This means that these cells no longer divide or function properly, but release harmful substances that promote inflammation. These processes play an important role in the initiation and growth of certain forms of bowel cancer, especially in people with chronic inflammation such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Researchers have discovered that senescent cells secrete substances that alter the environment in the intestines. This creates abnormal blood vessels and scar tissue, which provides a favourable environment for cancer cells to grow. These irregular blood vessels function poorly, making it harder for the immune system to intervene and allowing cancer cells to escape destruction more easily.
The scientists point out the complexity of the process by which inflammation, cellular ageing and tissue deformation together contribute to cancer development. Traditional treatments aimed at inhibiting blood vessel growth prove less effective in this form of bowel cancer. This is because the inflammatory responses by senescent cells activate a wide range of growth factors.
Future therapies will likely combine clearing senescent cells with inhibiting inflammatory factors. The goal is to improve the harmful environment in the gut in this way and thus reduce the risk of cancer. This research emphasises the importance of addressing cellular ageing and inflammation for healthy ageing.
Source: Josh Conway
