Cells in our bodies can age when they become damaged or have divided a certain number of times. These senescent cells stop dividing and release substances that stimulate inflammation and growth. In younger people, the immune system quickly clears away these cells, but as we get older, this process slows down. As a result, the senescent cells build up in our bodies.
The accumulation of these cells has a negative impact on surrounding cells and tissues. It stimulates a continuous inflammatory response, which throws the immune system off balance. This can lead to accelerated ageing of the immune system itself. In turn, an ageing immune system is also less able to clear away these old cells, causing the problem to escalate.
Scientific research in older mice shows that the selective removal of senescent cells can improve health and extend lifespan. This research gives hope that comparable treatments in humans could slow down ageing and reduce disease. Increasing attention is therefore being called for the development of therapies that target these cells.
By better understanding how senescent cells and the immune system interact, we can develop new methods to age healthily. This is important because a properly functioning immune system is essential for our well-being in later life.
Source: Reason
